What does Project Koyash do?
We provide human-centered engineering solutions to uplift communities that lack clean air. We have designed, tested, and implemented 13 fully functional and autonomous units consisting of a solar powered air filtration system. We build sustainable solutions that empower communities to equip people with clean air.
Why did Koyash start in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia?
As climate change accelerates, Ulaanbaatar has become one of the coldest capital cities and has limited access to electricity. In order to stay warm and cook food, the residents burn raw coal, exacerbating the air quality crisis. This is problematic because the entire city has air quality that is often five times higher than the healthy limit. Children and the elderly are at the forefront of this crisis as their lungs are most vulnerable. UNICEF has reported that these children have a lung capacity that is only 40 percent of what it should be.
How do the Koyash systems work?
Our units incorporate solar panels, air filters, PCB Arduinos, batteries, inverters, and a housing unit for electrical components. Despite the different components, the team has developed the PCB Arduino to run the system autonomously, meaning the residents do not need to touch the system once installed. Comprehensive testing of our systems in Ulaanbaatar has demonstrated that we are able to establish a healthy air quality within an hour - something that would otherwise not occur. The tests have revealed our system decreases AQI from 325 to 80 within one hour.
What is next for Koyash?
Our initial goal was to implement 12 ger’s with our system — that has now become a reality. We have seen the tremendous impact of these systems in the lives of the people; we are currently continuing to manufacture and send more units. We are working with our Community Partner, the Taiwan Fund for Children and Families, to develop a local supply chain for these systems. Currently, Team Leader Bryan is working with Pediatricians at Phoenix Children’s Hospital to conduct a study on the impact of the coal burning stoves on the health of residents. This partnership has allowed us to further understand the human health impact of these stoves and our solution.
Why is the project named Koyash?
Koyash is the Mongolian God of the Sun. We wanted to use our project and our name to pay homage to Mongolian culture and raise awareness for the people of Ulaanbaatar and the air quality emergency.