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Testing out a unique approach, researchers used interviews, storytelling, participatory mapping, theatre, play, and music to raise awareness of air pollution in the Mukuru community in Nairobi, Kenya. The aim of the study was to discover the community’s perception of air pollution, empowering those affected by poor air quality to take action.
The novel research methodologies of the AIR Network project were selected by the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) as a CABI One Health case.
The AIR Network researchers worked with residents in Mukuru, an informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya, to understand and create innovative solutions for air pollution in the neighbourhood. The research program and solutions were co-designed with community participants.
As part of the project, brightly coloured murals were painted on walls in the community. Visual arts of all types were key to the transdisciplinary approach.
Using co-created transdisciplinary research techniques, the researchers were able to gather data and insights on aspects of air pollution which they would not otherwise have been able to access. During one particular activity, for instance, the community residents took the researchers on walks around the neighbourhood to show them where they felt air pollution was particularly acute.
A blend of community workshops, collaborative visual arts, theatre, storytelling and music enabled the researchers and the community to work together to generate a wealth of information about air pollution in Mukuru. The creative processes meant that the project team attracted a large and varied group of community members to work with them, aided by the work of local community champions.
Through these co-designed activities, the researchers were able to develop a more well-rounded and precise picture of how participants perceived air pollution in their neighbourhoods, and empower the community to raise the problem with policymakers and stakeholders.
Project / The AIR (Action for Interdisciplinary Air Pollution Research) Network uses a transdisciplinary method to address air pollution in informal settlements in Kenya.
Journal article / This study used ongoing reflection diaries to evaluate research approaches and presented recommendations for future transdisciplinary work.
Journal article / By empowering communities and adopting participatory approaches, citizen science projects generate essential knowledge that informs decision-making processes.
Press release / Seven projects that will receive funding from the Ecological Citizen(s) Network+ to explore "Ecological Citizenship" have been announced.
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