Development of Microcontroller-Based Sensor Technology for Air Quality Monitoring in Urban Environments

Abstract

This study aims to develop microcontroller-based sensor technology for air quality monitoring in urban environments. A qualitative research approach with a descriptive-exploratory design was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of the system development process and its practical implementation in urban settings. The research was conducted in a densely populated urban area with high traffic activity, representing complex air pollution conditions. Three key informants were purposively selected based on their expertise in sensor technology, embedded systems, and urban air quality analysis. The results indicate that the microcontroller-based monitoring system operates reliably under dynamic environmental conditions and is capable of providing real-time, localized air quality data. The developed system effectively addresses the limitations of conventional air quality monitoring methods, which are often centralized, costly, and spatially restricted. This study recommends the adoption of microcontroller-based sensor systems as an alternative solution to enhance the coverage and effectiveness of urban air quality monitoring and as a foundation for future smart environmental monitoring applications.