Google provides a global pollen monitoring map

An accuracy of 1k m2 and around fifteen pollens studied

The American firm offers a new application programming interface (API) to better understand the levels of airborne pollen around the world and thus better treat local populations. The idea is indeed to provide reliable and easily usable information, in order to help people limit their risk of exposure.

The Pollen API is based on a model that calculates the daily amount of pollen grains with an accuracy of 1km2, in more than 65 countries around the world, including the United States and France. It also offers a 5-day forecast of exposure risks. In the form of heat maps dedicated to the different types of existing pollens, this tool makes the difference between about fifteen pollens.

Many potential applications

This initiative is aimed at health companies of course, but also transport. Indeed, among its possible applications, there is obviously the launch of alerts in the event of exceeding certain thresholds, but also the calculation of “clean” routes for travel or outdoor activities.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), between 25 to 30% of the world’s population is today allergic to pollen, a statistic that is constantly increasing and which could reach 50% by 2050. Note that the climate change and air pollution aggravate this type of allergy.

If you are allergic, here are some tips to limit your exposure:

• Regularly consult the pollen vigilance map on the site pollens.fr ;
• Rinse your hair in the evening, ventilate at least 10 minutes a day before sunrise and after sunset;
• Avoid drying clothes outside;
• Keep car windows closed to prevent pollen from entering the cabin;
• Avoid outdoor sports activities that lead to overexposure to pollen;
• Also beware of air pollution which can exacerbate pollen allergies in some large cities.