It all started when Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Manchester, has made climate action a key pledge during his campaigns. The city has introduced the Clean Air Zone, imposed tighter controls on taxi emissions, developed air quality awareness programs, and worked to improve traffic flow to reduce congestion. Eco-awareness became a significant aspect of the decision-making regarding new investments.
In 2022, Airly teamed up with JCDecaux, a leader in sustainable innovation, and the largest outdoor advertising provider in the world. JCDecaux offers bus stop advertising systems, billboards, public bicycle rental systems, and street furniture – all with a strong focus on sustainability.
The partnership came to fruition in the form of 20 sensors transmitting data live from across the city of Manchester, equipped with modified antennas to fit onto the top of JCDecaux city furniture. Further 20 sensors will be deployed in Nottingham in 2025. In addition to that, Airly solutions are listed in JCDecaux smart city catalogue, for example for France.
Challenge
The major challenge was finding environmental monitoring sensors that could seamlessly integrate with the existing design of JCDecaux advertising infrastructure, ensuring optimal functionality without the need to readjust equipment.
Solution
Airly provided ambient air quality sensors with customised antennas that can be fitted to advertising boards without any protruding elements. This allowed JCDecaux to quickly deploy the solution while also eliminating the costs of potential equipment adjustments.
Products used:
- Airly Data Platform + mobile app
- Airly map
- Sensors.
Partnership overview
Background & origins
The partnership between Airly and JCDecaux was born from a unique strategic alignment initiated in 2021. This connection led to a proof of concept realisation in Manchester, where Airly provided air quality sensors for integration into JCDecaux’s street furniture. These sensors were installed as part of bus shelters advertisement framework without disrupting existing infrastructure, aligning with JCDecaux’s design requirements.
Strategic fit with added value
JCDecaux’s decision to include Airly’s solutions within their Smart City infrastructure stems from their strategy to enhance the social value component in UK government tenders. Air quality monitoring has proven to be a key differentiator, enabling JCDecaux to earn more points in public tender evaluations, where social and environmental impact is assessed. The contribution of Airly’s systems has helped them secure long-term contracts in Manchester, Southwark, Brent, Hillingdon, Brentford, and Nottingham.
Results
JCDecaux brings unmatched credibility and scale in urban infrastructure investments. As a value-added B2G partner, their ability to accelerate access to municipalities and reinforce public trust has made them a vital strategic collaborator. The inclusion of Airly’s technology in their “top box” – a modular solution that includes air quality monitoring, pedestrian and traffic counters, WiFi and more – highlights the growing relevance of real-time environmental data in public urban infrastructure.
JCDecaux’s innovative deployment model, combined with Airly’s proven, certified, and easy-to-integrate sensors, forms a compelling proposition for cities seeking data-driven environmental solutions embedded in everyday street furniture.
Testimonials
Working with Airly and their sensors has been a great experience. Their cooperation and flexibility, especially in customising the hardware to fit our street furniture has been outstanding. Adding air quality monitoring to our units has provided significant benefits to our partners, enhancing the value and impact of our services.
Dale Armstrong,
Senior Partnership & Development Manager at JCDecaux
Airly and JCDecaux partnered up to offer cities smart environmental data through everyday urban infrastructure.
Ready to enhance the quality of life for your residents? Contact Airly today, and let’s join forces to achieve cleaner air and healthier communities!