Kawaiicon Implements Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring System

New Zealand’s leading hacker conference, Kawaiicon, has introduced an innovative approach to ensure the safety of its attendees by installing a real-time carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring system at the Michael Fowler Centre. This initiative aims to mitigate the “con crud” phenomenon, a term used to describe the common illnesses that often circulate at large gatherings.

On November 6, 2023, the event organizers set up DIY CO2 monitors throughout the venue, enabling attendees to check the air quality before even arriving. A public online dashboard displays CO2 readings from various areas, including session rooms and kids’ areas, allowing participants to make informed decisions about their attendance.

Jeff Moss, the founder of the renowned Defcon and Black Hat security conferences, praised the initiative, stating, “What they did is fantastic. CO2 is being used as an approximation for so many things, but there are no easy, inexpensive network monitoring solutions available. Kawaiicon building something to do this is the true spirit of hacking.” Elevated CO2 levels can impair cognitive function and aid in the transmission of airborne viruses, making the data a valuable tool for public health.

Kawaiicon organizers were particularly mindful of the ongoing risks associated with various illnesses, including a measles outbreak and persistent waves of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. They expressed frustration over the limitations in public health measures and the lack of control over the venue’s air quality standards. The Michael Fowler venue operates with a single HVAC system utilizing MERV-8 filters, which are commonly used in residential settings but may fall short for large events.

The planning for the CO2 monitoring system began a month before the conference. In early October, organizers deployed 13 RGB Matrix Portal Room CO2 Monitors, an ambient carbon dioxide monitoring project from Adafruit Industries. These monitors connect to an internet-accessible dashboard, providing live readings and historical data on CO2 levels, allowing attendees to track trends throughout the event.

Collaboration with researchers from the University of Otago‘s public health department helped ensure the monitors were effective and reliable. Limor “Ladyada” Fried, the founder of Adafruit, commented on the project’s significance, saying, “The best part is seeing folks pick up new skills and really understand how we measure and monitor air quality in the real world.”

The Michael Fowler Centre, known for its impressive blend of Scandinavian brutalism and intricate woodwork, posed unique challenges for the Kawaiicon team. To address the acoustics and air circulation, the monitors were strategically placed in various locations, including the Main Auditorium and session areas. Organizers emphasized that considerations for health and safety were paramount, likening the setup process to ensuring accessibility for all attendees.

Attendees benefited from the ability to monitor air quality before entering the venue. Observers noted that many participants used their phones to check CO2 levels, adjusting their masks based on the readings displayed on small wall-mounted monitors throughout the conference. These monitors utilized a color-coded system: green indicated safe conditions, orange signified risk, and red warned of high CO2 levels.

Kawaiicon’s organizers aimed to create an environment where attendees could tailor their experience according to their individual risk assessments. They encouraged mask usage and provided free masks on-site, while also offering a virtual conference stream to ensure accessibility for all participants.

As the event unfolded, Kawaiicon addressed the ongoing challenges of gathering in person during health crises. The organizers urged attendees to respect each other’s choices regarding health and safety, stating, “We each have our different risk tolerance. Just leave others to make the call that is best for them. No one needs your snarky commentary.”

Kawaiicon’s proactive measures represent a significant step in addressing public health concerns at large gatherings. By implementing a user-friendly CO2 monitoring system, the conference not only protects attendees but also sets a precedent for future events. The resources and guides for similar setups are available online, allowing other conferences to adopt this innovative approach to health and safety.