Funded by Innovate UK as part of their Feasibility Study for AI Solutions Series 2, the Digital Building Design (D-BuD) for Optimum Pollution Dispersion project aims to revolutionise air quality management in urban areas across the UK.
This feasibility study integrates artificial intelligence with real-time environmental data from air quality sensors, weather patterns, traffic flow, wind direction, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to generate actionable insights for urban planners and public health officials.
Led by Dr. Mohammad Nazir OBE, Managing Director of Nazir Associates Ltd, in collaboration with Professor Hafiz Alaka, Associate Dean and Director of the Ai & BigData Technologies and Innovations (BDTI) Laboratory at the University of Hertfordshire, the D-BuD project employs Big Data and Machine Learning to create advanced models for pollution dispersion.
Dr. Nazir said: ‘Air pollution remains a silent threat to public health, responsible for thousands of premature deaths annually. Our AI-powered approach will empower stakeholders with precise tools to design urban spaces that mitigate pollution hotspots and promote healthier living environments.’
Professor Hafiz Alaka added: ‘Utilizing AI allows us to deeply analyse and predict air circulation dynamics within cities. The D-BuD project provides data-driven strategies that are essential for developing sustainable and health-focused urban infrastructures.’
The initiative aligns with Public Health England’s findings, which identify air pollution as a leading environmental risk. By offering AI-driven solutions, D-BuD aims to support the UK’s ambitious climate goals and enhance compliance with stringent air quality regulations.
The UK government has recently announced a separate £7 million investment aimed at stimulating AI-driven innovations across various sectors. This significant funding initiative highlights the nation’s dedication to harnessing artificial intelligence to address complex societal challenges, including environmental sustainability and public health.
To foster collaboration and share insights, the D-BuD consortium will host a webinar in March 2025. This event will bring together experts in air quality management, urban planning, sustainability, and AI to discuss the project’s impact and future directions.