In this episode of Her Way Climate, we met with Dr. Christa Hasenkopf, Director of the Clean Air Program at the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago. Dr. Hasenkopf discusses her work at the intersection of air pollution policy and technology, discussing the global implications of air quality monitoring. She details her transition from academia to a career that integrates technology, policy, and environmental governance, highlighting her work in non-profits, private sectors, and governmental applications focusing on air quality and data transparency. She elaborates on her current responsibilities, the creation of the Air Quality Life Index, and the efforts under the Epic Air Quality Fund to improve air monitoring and transparency globally. Dr. Hasenkopf also reflects on her past roles at USAID and Open AQ, discussing the challenges of coordinating large-scale air quality strategies and making air quality data accessible and actionable.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:37 Dr. Hasenkopf’s Career Journey
01:31 Transition to Applied Work
03:22 Current Role at UChicago
06:42 Founding the Clean Air Program
11:16 Challenges in Air Quality Monitoring
14:17 Open Data and Government Collaboration
16:44 Role at USAID
23:07 Future Steps and Advice
25:54 Final Thoughts and Farewell
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