San Jose, CA — November 19, 2024

Acterra, Action for a Healthy Planet ( Acterra), a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to addressing climate challenges, has installed a state-of-the-art air quality monitor at Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School as part of its Air Quality Initiative. This initiative, funded by a $299,000 grant from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), aims to monitor and improve air quality throughout East San Jose, particularly in disadvantaged communities most affected by pollution.

The installation of the Clarity Node-S air quality monitor at Cristo Rey marks a significant milestone in the initiative. This innovative device will measure particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), providing real-time, high-precision data. The solar-powered monitor is designed to be easily deployable and is paired with an intuitive dashboard for tracking and analyzing air quality metrics.

The partnership between Acterra and Cristo Rey extends beyond the installation. A Cristo Rey student has been selected to manage the air quality sensor and will produce quarterly reports detailing the pollution levels it measures. Acterra will mentor the student and provide comprehensive training in air quality monitoring and data analysis. Additionally, Acterra will collaborate with Cristo Rey teachers to integrate air quality data into classroom lessons, empowering students to explore environmental science through hands-on projects. This program aligns with Cristo Rey School’s mission to empower students to become leaders in their communities. By incorporating air quality monitoring into their education, students gain access to learning opportunities with real-world impact.

“This installation is a step forward in ensuring healthier air for students and the surrounding community. By providing accessible and actionable air quality data, we’re equipping the next generation to take meaningful action against pollution,” said Drew Clark, Director of Air Quality at Acterra.

“The air quality monitor at Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School is the first of ten planned installations in East San Jose” confirmed Lauren Weston, Executive Director of Acterra. “These efforts will provide critical data to drive informed discussions and actions in science, health, and social justice.”

About Acterra:
Acterra: Action for a Healthy Planet (acterra.org) is a San Francisco Bay Area 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Palo Alto that brings people together to create local solutions for a healthy planet. Through education and policy advocacy, Acterra helps accelerate the beneficial electrification of homes, businesses, and transportation, supports more climate-friendly food choices such as plant-forward diets and reduced food waste, and empowers youth to better understand and act on the climate crisis.