Forgalmon

Forgalmon is an automated data feed system developed by the Ministry of Environment, Japan, to provide air quality monitoring data to the public. The system was launched in 2008 as a service to disseminate in real-time the concentration of pollutants such as NO2, O3, CO, NO, SO2, and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) from over 1,500 continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations across Japan.

The data is transmitted from the stations to a centralized server, where it is processed and made available on the Forgalmon website. The website provides a graphical interface to visualize the air quality data, including current and past measurements, as well as data on station maintenance and any instrument calibration issues. The website also allows users to select and monitor specific pollutants, stations, or regions of interest.

Forgalmon has been recognized for its contribution to air quality management, including facilitating research, decision-making, and public education on air quality issues. The system has also been touted as a model for other countries to follow, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The Forgalmon system has undergone updates and improvements since its inception, with additional features such as hourly data display and pollution maps.

Much of the data presented through Forgalmon serve as critical indicators for air quality management and policy development in Japan and beyond. The system acts as a tool to facilitate knowledge sharing and inform decision-making at various levels, contributing to better air quality management practices globally.