Residents of Norilsk and Monchegorsk can now monitor air quality in real time thanks to a new environmental monitoring system from Norilsk Nickel. The project became part of the company’s environmental strategy aimed at increasing transparency and public trust.
In December 2024, Norilsk Nickel launched an automated network of sensors that analyze air pollution levels around the clock. There are 16 stations installed in Norilsk, and 13 in Monchegorsk. They record the concentration of hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and other harmful substances. The data is updated every 20 minutes and displayed on the city portal using a color scale: green – normal, yellow – slight excess, red – serious pollution.
The first months of operation of the system showed that the air in cities corresponds to normal most of the time. Small excesses were recorded only in unfavorable weather conditions. Open access to data helps dispel myths about catastrophic ecology and demonstrates real changes.
“Our goal is not just to comply with the requirements of the law, but to show people the truth,” said Norilsk Nickel vice-president Stanislav Seleznev.
The company faced a number of difficulties: a harsh climate, sanctions and public mistrust. However, implementation digital models and collaboration with independent experts helped create a reliable system.
Norilsk Nickel’s experience can form the basis of a nationwide environmental monitoring system, especially in industrial cities. This requires government support and uniform data collection standards.
Source: geoinfo.ru
Image generated by a neural network
