On January 24, 2025, the EU-funded research project CleanBREATHE hosted an interactive hackathon at Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences. The event, held at the MaterialLab (Building 8) from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM, was part of the CMTB Conference (Change Media – Transform Business). Designed as a free hands-on workshop, it brought together 11 participants, including students and citizens, to explore air pollution, sensor technology, and 3D printing.

The hackathon provided an opportunity for participants to engage with environmental data and develop practical solutions for monitoring air pollution. A strong collaboration with the MakerLab played a crucial role, as they took on the design and 3D printing of custom sensor cases, ensuring a seamless integration of technology and hands-on making.

Additionally, the event benefited from the participation of three special guests from North Macedonia: two computer science master’s students from the University of Skopje and Pance Cavkovski, co-founder and initiator of the Pulse.Eco network from Netcetera. Their expertise enriched the discussions and fostered valuable knowledge exchange.

The program included four key sessions:

1. Introduction

Victoria Batz, Research Scientist, Interaction Design (h2)
The event started with an introduction to the health effects of air pollution and an overview of how air sensors work.

2. 3D Maker Workshop

Nils Suhr, MakerLab, Maker Education (h2)
Participants explored the design and 3D printing of custom cases for air sensors, gaining insight into the intersection of technology and sustainability.

3. Sensor Kit Assembly

Pance Cavkovski, Computer Scientist, University of Skopje
In this session, participants assembled, soldered, and integrated air sensor kits into the 3D-printed cases. The workshop was conducted in English by partners from the Eco-Informatics Lab at Skopje University, with German-language support available.

4. Sensor Installation

One sensor was installed on-site, with real-time data streamed to the Pulse.Eco network. Participants also received guidance on setting up their personal sensors at home or other locations to contribute to broader environmental monitoring efforts.

Beyond the hands-on activities, the workshop also provided an opportunity for in-depth discussions about CleanBREATHE’s research goals. Participants engaged in productive conversations about future project directions and potential collaborations. To round off the experience, the North Macedonian guests were given a guided tour of Magdeburg, offering them insights into the city’s history and culture.

The CleanBREATHE hackathon successfully combined citizen science with hands-on experimentation, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to engage in air quality monitoring. The event highlighted the power of collaborative innovation in addressing environmental challenges.