Air Quality from an Air Quality Scientist

Thanks to everyone who braved the weather and joined us last night!

We had the great privilege of welcoming Sarah Harrison, an Air Quality Scientist from Otago Regional Council, to our June meeting. Sarah has worked in the environmental science field for 13 years and has led the ORC’s air quality science programme for the past six years.

We kicked things off with our usual notices. Beth introduced our bird of the month — the lively pīwakawaka! Paul showcased our new “super traps,” which combine a mouse and rat trap, specially designed for Scott Technology, where some cunning mice have been stealing bait from the rat traps.

Sarah gave an excellent talk covering key air quality topics, including why air quality is monitored, its impacts on health, and what the data can tell us. She also shared insights into how our local air quality data compares to the official ORC monitor on Clyde Street and how we can all help improve air quality in our community.

It was fantastic to see some new faces, and we’re grateful to Sarah for sharing her time and expertise with us. And if you couldn’t make it to the meeting, don’t worry — we’ve got a recording just for you! Check it out to catch up on everything we covered.

Next month, we’re back into our winter movie nights! Every Thursday in July, we’ll be screening a New Zealand documentary focused on our unique wildlife — hope to see you there!