Guidelines for Establishing a Hybrid Air Quality Monitoring Network in the EANET Region

While reference-grade monitors have been traditionally used for air quality monitoring, based on their reliability and high accuracy, they also require a high investment and strong technical operation knowledge. Sensors referred to as ‘Low-Cost Sensors’ (LCS), on the other hand, have appeared in the recent years with improved technology related to the size and energy efficiency, lower cost and easier deployment, in particular in zones with limited infrastructures. However, LCS lack the same measurement precision and require maintenance and data analysis. The complementary use of LCSs and reference-grade monitors is referred to as Hybrid Air Quality Monitoring with Low-Cost Sensors (HAQMN), as described in these EANET Guidelines.

The Hybrid Air Quality Monitoring with Low-Cost Sensors Guidelines provide governments with a strategic framework for integrating LCS into existing reference‑grade networks. They emphasize that LCS should supplement, not replace,  reference-grade monitors, ensuring expanded coverage without compromising accuracy. They also lay out critical principles such as robust Quality Assurance and Quality Control practices, contextualized network planning, and clear differentiation from the EANET’s traditional monitoring practices and guidelines.

Aimed at senior government officials, these Guidelines describe institutional responsibilities, site selection criteria, and governance considerations. They serve as supporting documents to the EANET’s existing technical manuals, helping countries in the region and beyond expand monitoring capacity methodically and consistently.