A unique musical composition, powered by artificial intelligence, has been authored in Liverpool as part of a campaign to increase awareness of air pollution in the city. Liverpool City Council has joined up with the University of Liverpool and The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra in this innovative initiative to promote policies for cleaner air in cities. Scientists have rendered large amounts of air-quality data into music in a way that reflects the changing quality of the air over 365 days of the year 2024, ensuring a unique dataset is generated to power the AI systems that drive the composition.
Environmental experts say that air quality varies dramatically throughout the year across Liverpool, even though the World Health Organization recommends keeping air pollution below a peak of 5 µg/m³ daily. The composition, when performed, merges science and art in unique harmony through shifting from harmonious sections to atonality to represent increased pollution levels. The collaboration across the city was showcased during Clean Air Night, which highlighted Liverpool’s push to become a leader in air-quality research.
The City of Liverpool has launched several initiatives designed to reduce air pollution and make the city cleaner, healthier and more sustainable. First, as part of the government’s efforts to transition the country to cleaner vehicles, Liverpool is gradually phasing out its municipal vehicles powered by diesel. In addition, the council has implemented 65 school Streets that curb traffic around schools, enforced by cameras. A comprehensive Clean Air Plan has also been proposed, which specifies measures to reduce levels of roadside nitrogen dioxide.
Ensuring sustainable cycling and walking infrastructure across the city is another vital aspect of the Liverpool Council’s efforts to make the city safer and greener. To this end, additional bike parking, new routes and enhanced wayfinding can benefit city residents who travel sustainably. These efforts are part of the council’s active travel plan and are poised to pave the way to net-zero commercial and transport emissions.
Commenting on this revolutionary initiative that blends data science and music, a spokesperson for the Liverpool City Council said that the project’s impact on residents’ health, particularly of children, is significant. Emphasizing the importance of continuing the council’s work to reduce pollutants in the atmosphere, they insisted that such efforts will positively affect everyone in the city and lead to a healthier and thriving environment
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