Air can look clean
PM2.5 particles are too small to see. A clear sky does not always mean pollution is low.
For students · Grades 6–8
Become a clean-air detective
Learn how invisible pollution is measured, investigate the air around you, and help your community make cleaner choices.
Know the basics
Three ideas to remember
Air and heat information is most useful when it supports calm, practical coordination alongside official guidance.
AQI is a shared scale
The Air Quality Index turns measurements into colour bands that are easier to compare.
Your body gives clues
Coughing, wheezing, or unusual tiredness are signs to stop, tell an adult, and get help.
Put it into practice
Try a 20-minute air investigation
Use the dashboard as one source of evidence, alongside what you observe and guidance from trusted adults and local authorities.
- Step 1
Observe whether the sky is clear, hazy, smoky, or dusty.
- Step 2
Check the nearest city on the dashboard and record its status.
- Step 3
Compare what you noticed with the AQI and PM2.5 reading.
- Step 4
Choose one clean-air action and share it with your class.
Keep learning