Hacker Conference Deploys Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring to Protect Attendees

Kawaiicon, New Zealand's premier hacker conference, implemented a real-time, room-by-room carbon dioxide monitoring system for attendees in an effort to combat the spread of illness. The system, which was installed throughout the Michael Fowler Centre venue, allowed attendees to check a public online dashboard for clean air readings for session rooms, kids areas, the front desk, and more. The initiative was quietly launched before conference doors opened on November 6. Event organizers installed DIY CO2 monitors throughout the venue to get the system up and running. This allowed attendees to access the information before even arriving at the conference. According to the conference's website, the organizers' goal was to provide attendees with a safe and healthy environment, stating, "Its ALMOST like we are all nerds in a risk-based industry." The move has been praised by industry experts, with Jeff Moss, founder of the Defcon and Black Hat security conferences, telling WIRED, "What they did is fantastic. CO2 is being used as an approximation for so many things, but there are no easy, inexpensive network monitoring solutions available. Kawaiicon building something to do this is the true spirit of hacking." The use of CO2 monitoring as a proxy for air quality is not a new concept. Elevated levels of CO2 can lead to reduced cognitive function and increased risk of illness. By monitoring CO2 levels, event organizers can identify areas where ventilation may be inadequate, allowing for adjustments to be made to improve air quality. This approach has implications for various industries, including healthcare, education, and office spaces, where maintaining a healthy indoor environment is crucial. The decision to implement the CO2 monitoring system at Kawaiicon was likely influenced by the conference's focus on innovation and problem-solving. As a hacker conference, attendees are known for their creative approach to solving complex problems. By leveraging this mindset, event organizers were able to develop a cost-effective solution to a common issue affecting conferences and events. The success of the CO2 monitoring system at Kawaiicon may prompt other events and organizations to adopt similar measures. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of indoor air quality, innovative solutions like this one will be crucial in creating healthier environments. With the system's effectiveness demonstrated at Kawaiicon, it is likely that we will see more widespread adoption of CO2 monitoring in the future.