A Multi-Sensing Technology Approach for the Environmental Monitoring of the Ystwyth River

Source abstract

Monitoring water quality in Welsh rivers has become a critical public concern, particularly in efforts to address pollution and protect the environment. This study presents the development and assessment of an interactive web and mobile application, featuring a real-time mapping interface built using the Mapbox framework. The platform provides stakeholders, including farmers, environmental agencies, and the public, with easy access to real-time water quality data for the Ystwyth River in Mid-Wales. Users can click on map markers to view sensor readings for key water quality parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids (TDS) and nutrient levels such as nitrate (NO₃). This paper focuses on the feasibility of combining in-situ sensor technology with a user-friendly mobile app to enable stakeholders to visualise the impact of land management practices and make informed decisions. The system aims to enhance environmental surveillance, increase transparency, and promote sustainable agricultural practices by providing critical water quality information in an accessible format. Future developments will explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive modelling and satellite data for broader spatial coverage, with the goal of scaling up the system to other catchments and improving proactive water quality management.