The Pollution Piano is a groundbreaking, data-driven installation that transforms real-time air quality into a unique musical and visual experience.

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:

Doddz User Journey.mp4


World Wide locations

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

Dubai, UAE

Mumbai, India

Mumbai, India

Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, Indonesia

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

London, England

London, England

San Fransisco, USA

San Fransisco, USA

Porto Alegre, Brazil

Porto Alegre, Brazil

Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles, USA

New York, USA

New York, USA

Paris, France

Paris, France

Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia


Technical Overview

Music generated from Mumbai, India, with poor air quality.

Poor Pollution Quality.mp3

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.


Why Pollution Data?

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.

Project Status

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.

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User 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.