In an age where information is power, the question of who owns the data generated by air quality monitors and sensors has become increasingly important. This is especially true for air quality monitors that provide crucial insights into the air we breathe. While these devices offer valuable information, users should be aware of potential issues related to data ownership and accessibility.   

The Risks of Changing Terms and Closed Systems

In some cases, companies have sold air quality monitors with “unlimited” data storage, only to later change their terms of service and require users to pay for continued access to their own data. This bait-and-switch tactic leaves consumers feeling betrayed and exploited, as they are forced to pay for something they thought they already owned.

The risks of this shift in data ownership is seen with PurpleAir. While they previously allowed users to freely download their air quality data at any time, they have since introduced a new system. Now, data downloads are facilitated through a proprietary “PurpleAir Data Download Tool” and a points-based system. This system effectively monetizes access to user-generated data. For instance, a recent attempt to download just the PM2.5 data for a single sensor over a 30-day period incurred a charge of 63,360 points, equivalent to US$6.3. This change represents a significant shift, transforming what was once a free and accessible feature into a paid service, impacting users who relied on the previous open access model.

PurpleAir is trying to recoup infrastructure cost for providing a service, thus the charges. To justify this change, PurpleAir offers new users a one-time grant of 1,000,000 points. However, once this is offer ends, users will need to pay to continue accessing their data.

Another issue arises when companies that produce air quality monitors go out of business. If the devices rely on communication with a central server to function, they can become useless when the company shuts down and the server is no longer available. This leaves users with expensive paperweights and highlights the importance of considering the long-term viability of a company before purchasing their products.

The Importance of Open Data and User Control

These examples underscore the need for greater transparency and user control when it comes to air quality data. Ideally, users should own the data generated by their devices and have the ability to access and store it independently. This not only ensures continued access to valuable information but also allows users to contribute to a larger pool of open data that can benefit everyone.

Organizations like OpenAQ exemplify the value of open data. OpenAQ aggregates air quality data from various sources around the world, making it freely available to researchers, policymakers, and the public. This open approach fosters collaboration, accelerates research, and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and environment.   

A potential solution to these data ownership issues would be for air quality monitors to automatically email all collected measurements to users once their online or on-device storage capacity is reached. In addition, devices could offer users the option to store data on a personal FTP server or contribute it to open data initiatives like OpenAQ. This would empower users to retain control of their data while also potentially contributing to valuable public resources.

Choosing Products with Data Ownership in Mind

When purchasing an air quality monitor, users should carefully consider the issue of data ownership. Look for products that prioritize user control and offer options for local data storage. Ask manufacturers about their data policies and ensure that you are comfortable with their terms of service. By making informed choices, consumers can protect their rights and contribute to a more open and accessible data landscape.

All in all, air quality data is a valuable resource that should be accessible to all. By prioritizing data ownership and supporting open data initiatives, we can ensure that this information is used to improve public health and protect our environment.