This project aims to raise public awareness about pollution and promote environmental stewardship through art and technology by allowing audiences to experience an exclusive performance at select iconic locations worldwide.
Through augmented reality, users can witness an intimate and interactive Doddz performance where he generates AI-driven music influenced by real-time air pollution levels of any given location creating a unique performance for every audience.
Key Objectives:
The Pollution Piano installations are strategically placed in a diverse array of locations worldwide, each selected to highlight varying pollution levels in culturally significant, musically or environmentally relevant, and instantly recognisable settings. From bustling Mumbai to the serene natural landmarks of Brazil, these sites not only reflect the environmental challenges faced by different regions but also serve as powerful symbols for collective action and awareness.
Dubai, UAE
Mumbai, India
Jakarta, Indonesia
Tokyo, Japan
London, England
San Fransisco, USA
Porto Alegre, Brazil
Los Angeles, USA
New York, USA
Paris, France
Sydney, Australia
Music generated from Mumbai, India, with poor air quality.
Music generated from London, UK, with great air quality.
Positive Pollution Quality.mp3
The Pollution Piano leverages Niantic's VPS system, the same technology that powers Pokémon Go, to accurately locate users and their surroundings. Using the most advanced plane tracking for WebAR, it seamlessly places the 3D model and animation in real-world environments, delivering the best web-based AR experience available. Integrated with Google’s Air Quality API, the system pulls real-time pollution data from the user’s location. This data feeds into a custom AI music generator, creating unique compositions that reflect the air quality in real-time.
By keeping the experience web-based, it eliminates the need for downloads, making it accessible to everyone with just a smartphone and internet connection.
Most people understand that pollution is harmful, but the severity and nuances can be abstract. By converting raw data—such as PM2.5, CO2 levels, and other pollutants—into musical notes and chords, the Pollution Piano externalises the data’s urgency. The resulting sound environment can be harmonious or discordant, reflecting the health of the user's immediate surroundings in real time.
The Pollution Piano is currently in its pre-launch phase and has not yet received public attention or PR. This submission offers an opportunity to recognise and support a groundbreaking project at the forefront of innovation before its full-scale launch in 2025.
Inspiration
The Pollution Piano transforms invisible air pollution data into an emotional, sensory experience. Inspired by the global air quality crisis, it uses music and art as universal languages to make an urgent issue personal and relatable, sparking awareness and action through creativity.
Cultural and Artistic Context
The project draws inspiration from sound art installations, environmental activism, and the concept of “data visualisation” expanded into “data sonification.” Blending art, technology, and activism, the Pollution Piano draws from traditions of interactive and data-driven art. Its AR element invites participation, reflecting our fascination with using technology to uncover hidden truths, creating a global, cross-cultural artistic experience.
Emotional Resonance and Reflection:
By “hearing pollution,” users gain a more visceral, emotional understanding of environmental data. This depth of engagement encourages them to think critically about environmental policy, personal responsibility, and the broader climate crisis.