top of page

FIELD TEST
FIELD LAB

DESIGN SYSTEM: AI + DIGITAL + PRODUCT + DATA

01 - A
GRASSROOTS
ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING SYSTEM

 
In partnership with Brown University as a Masters of Design Engineering thesis, I developed an environmental reporting system focusing on methane and water pollution. Utilizing a "Citizen Science" methodology, the project combined digital and physical tools to empower community members to collect and share environmental data. 

FieldTest-FieldLab_Banner-3.jpg
Brown_Engineering.png
risd_logo_1200x630.png
PSN_Logo_Two-color_Medium.png

BROWN
UNIVERSITY
ENGINEERING


In the Engineering Department, I led interdisciplinary projects combining technical innovation with human-centered design. My research focused on scalable solutions for environmental challenges using and exploring emerging technologies and
community-focused design.

RHODE ISLAND
SCHOOL OF DESIGN INDUSTRIAL DESIGN


Partnering with RISD, I approached environmental issues through a design lens, integrating creative experimentation with community engagement. My work explored how artistic methods and human-centered design could drive innovative approaches.

YOUTH-LED SOCIAL & ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ORGANIZATIONS

With the Power Shift Network, I supported grassroots climate justice initiatives by applying design strategies that elevated community voices. Centering equity and accessibility, my work focused on visual storytelling and systems thinking to amplify efforts addressing climate resilience.

AdobeStock_956549245_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

01 - B
THE INITIAL FOCUS: METHANE POLLUTION
 
The project began as a response to methane pollution, a major driver of climate change. Drawing on new satellite-based detection tools, it focused on tracking emissions from industrial and agricultural sources. By pairing real-time data with community-led action, the project demonstrated how advanced technology and grassroots efforts can effectively address complex environmental challenges.

SOURCES OF METHANE POLLUTION

AdobeStock_963723083_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

AdobeStock_875074738_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

AdobeStock_920806816_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

01 - C

EXTENDING THE FRAMWORK TO  ENIVRONMENTAL CHALLENGES

 

The framework of the system in tracking methane emissions highlights its adaptability to other environmental concerns. Its flexible design allows it to be applied to pollutants such as water contaminants, air toxins, and soil degradation. By uniting advanced monitoring technology with community-driven action, the framework enables localized solutions while supporting global efforts in environmental health and sustainability.

AdobeStock_715906963_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

Artboard 1 copy 2.png

WATER & AIR QUALITY MONITORING

Expanding on a scalable framework, the project incorporated water and air quality monitoring using sensors, AI analysis, and "citizen science". Community members were trained to track pollutants like particulate matter, heavy metals, and nitrates, enabling real-time data collection and advocacy. This approach empowered local action and informed policy using technology and grassroots engagement to drive meaningful environmental change.

Artboard 1 copy.png

BIODIVERSITY
LOSS


The project expanded to address biodiversity loss by integrating AI image recognition, acoustic sensors, and community observations to monitor wildlife and habitat health. Citizen scientists gathered local data, creating a feedback loop between grassroots efforts and scientific analysis. This empowered communities to advocate for conservation, restoration, and sustainable land use.

Artboard 1.png

PUBLIC
HEALTH 


The system was adapted to link environmental data with public health, combining sensor readings, citizen reports, and AI analysis. It identified pollution-related risks like respiratory issues and waterborne diseases, enabling communities to track hazards and advocate for targeted health interventions and policy change fostering proactive, data-informed responses to environmental health threats.

AdobeStock_799719496_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

01 - D

DESIGNING FOR WIDESPREAD USE WITH NEW TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY

 

The system was built for broad adoption, using modular sensors, flexible AI, and an open data platform to ensure adaptability and low cost. This tech-forward design empowers communities to monitor local conditions, address evolving challenges, and connect to wider environmental networks in safe & legal ways.

AdobeStock_869482612_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artboard 1 copy 2.png

MODULAR
SENSOR KITS


Designed for adaptability, the modular kits include easy-to-use, low-cost sensors for air, water, and biodiversity monitoring. Customizable to local needs, they empower communities, urban and rural alike, to collect
reliable data and participate in environmental stewardship without requiring technical expertise.

Artboard 1 copy.png

AI MODEL
FLEXIBILITY


The system’s scalable AI models adapt to diverse data types, air, water, biodiversity, and health metrics, allowing seamless integration and real-time insights. Tailored to regional needs, they evolve with emerging challenges, enhancing predictive accuracy for varied communities.

Artboard 1.png

OPEN DATA
PLATFORM


The open data platform makes environmental data accessible and transparent to the public, policymakers, and researchers. Its open-source design fosters collaboration, innovation, and informed decision-making, empowering communities and promoting global cooperation.

AdobeStock_657196694_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

01 - E
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN: 
CITIZEN SCIENCE AS
AN UNIVERSAL METHOD


 Central to the project is "citizen science", engaging communities in data collection and analysis to democratize environmental monitoring. This approach empowers diverse participants to contribute to research, raise awareness, and influence policy, fostering global collaboration and local ownership in addressing issues like pollution and biodiversity loss.

Firefly Citizen scientists environmental. On-shore. Punk, techno, alternative aesthetics.

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly Citizen scientists environmental. On-shore. Hipster, alternative aesthetics. outdo

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution and water quality issues. Punk, tech

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

01 - F
COMMUNITY-DRIVEN: 
ADVOCACY ALIGNMENT ACROSS ISSUES


 The project bridges diverse grassroots groups by highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental and health challenges. It supports coalition-building that leverages local knowledge and collective action, enabling communities to address multiple issues simultaneously and influence policy through unified, cross-issue advocacy.

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution, air and water quality issues. Punk,

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

MULTIPLE ISSUES TO ADDRESS

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly Citizen scientists environmental. On-shore. Hipster, alternative aesthetics. outdo

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution, air and water quality issues. wildf

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

01 - G
MARKET RESEARCH: 
METHODOLOGY

FOR POLLUTION MONITORING DEVICES

 The system’s development relied on market research using qualitative and quantitative methods, including expert interviews, user surveys, and trend analysis. Data analysis and pilot feedback collection enabled rapid iteration, resulting in a cost-effective, adaptable pollution monitoring solution.

Firefly Citizen scientists environmental. Hipster, alternative aesthetics. outdoor. Photos

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

HAND-HELD METHANE DEVICES

Firefly methane devices sensors in use. Hand-held. Modern design. Pen-like. Outdoor snow.

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly methane devices sensors in use. Hand-held. Modern design. Pen-like. Outdoor. Punk,

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

01 - H
ETHNOGRAPHIC RESEARCH: 
ADVOCACY & ACTIVISM


 Ethnographic research provided deep insights into local environmental advocacy by engaging communities, NGOs, and activists through observation, interviews, and focus groups. Using storytelling and mapping, it captured lived experiences to center affected voices, guiding the creation of community-driven solutions and strengthening collaboration between grassroots groups and technology.

ALTERNATIVE ECO-ACTIVISM GROUPS

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution, air and water quality issues. wildf

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution and water quality issues. Punk, tech

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution, air and water quality issues. wildf

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

01 - I
DATA COLLECTION: 
BLENDING QUANTITATIVE & QUALITATIVE APPROACHES


 The project combined quantitative data from sensors with qualitative insights from community interviews and observations. Spatial and thematic analyses integrated scientific measurements with local narratives, creating a comprehensive, actionable understanding of environmental challenges grounded in both data and lived experience.

AdobeStock_926770280_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artboard 1 copy 2.png

SOCIALLY-DRIVEN QUALITATIVE APPROACHES

The project prioritized community experiences, especially from marginalized groups, to frame environmental issues beyond data, considering social, economic, and cultural contexts. Through interviews, focus groups, and participatory workshops, it captured diverse perspectives that informed scientifically sound and socially relevant interventions.

Artboard 1 copy.png

AI INTEGRATION + DATA ANALYTICS 
APPROACH


AI and data analytics enhanced the project’s ability to process environmental data from sensors, satellite imagery, and community reports. ML / AI identified patterns, predicted pollution hotspots, and recommended interventions, enabling real-time insights and empowering communities with actionable information through intuitive visualizations.

Artboard 1.png

DESIGN + PROTOTYPING METHODOLOGIES

The project employed digital prototyping tools to rapidly develop and refine. Continuous stakeholder feedback guided iterative improvements, ensuring the solutions were intuitive, effective, and user-friendly. This digital-first approach enabled seamless collaboration across design, engineering, and community teams throughout development.

AdobeStock_756121457_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

Artboard 1_2x.png

SOLUTION

PROBLEM

DISCOVER

IDEATE

DEFINE

DELIVER

UX DESIGN

UX RESEARCH

UI DESIGN

 Design
Engineering
Marketing

 Design
Strategy
Funding

DISCOVER

This phase focuses on UX research to explore the problem space deeply. Methods like user interviews, observations, and data analysis are used to gather insights about user behaviors, needs, and pain points. The goal is to understand the context without assumptions and collect  information to inform design.

DEFINE

During this phase, the research findings are synthesized to create a clear problem statement. UX design plays a key role by mapping user journeys, identifying pain points, and defining design opportunities. This focused understanding aligns the team and sets a clear direction for solution development.

DEVELOP

In these phases, ideas are generated and translated into UI designs and interactive prototypes. Through iterative testing and user feedback, the designs are refined to improve usability and effectiveness. This user-centered approach ensures the final product is both functional and engaging, ready for implementation.

AdobeStock_1228124816_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK

Brown Design Workshop - 3D Printers.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: BROWN UNIVERSITY

Brown Design Workshop.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: BROWN UNIVERSITY

01 - J
THE SOLUTION:
DESIGN SYSTEM
 

A community-driven environmental monitoring system with modular sensors, a user-friendly app, and an open data platform. It offers real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and fosters collaboration between communities, advocates, and scientists to empower environmental action.

FieldTest-FieldLab_Banner-3.jpg
Artboard 1 copy 2.png

PORTABILITY

These lightweight, compact devices are easy to carry and deploy across diverse locations, from urban to remote areas, enabling community members to monitor pollution without complex setups. Their portability supports flexible, temporary monitoring of changing environmental conditions.

Artboard 1 copy.png

COST-EFFECTIVENESS

Designed to be affordable without compromising function, these devices make environmental monitoring accessible to communities and grassroots groups. Their low cost enables widespread adoption and large-scale data collection without financial barriers.

Artboard 1.png

REAL-TIME DATA

The devices provide immediate pollution insights via mobile apps and dashboards, enabling communities and policymakers to respond quickly and make informed, data-driven decisions shaping smarter planning and public strategies.

IMG_6269 2.HEIC

COMING SOON...

01 - K
FIELD LAB
 

 The Field Lab introduced color-coded paper strips for quick, low-cost water quality testing. Designed for ease of use, the strips detect pollutants like nitrates and phosphates, changing color when dipped in water. Users compare results to a chart for instant analysis. This simple tool empowers communities to identify contamination and respond swiftly, supporting widespread, on-site environmental monitoring.

AdobeStock_875074738_Preview.jpeg

COMING SOON...

Artboard 1 copy 2.png

ACCESSIBILITY

Designed for ease of use, the color-changing paper strips make water testing accessible to all, regardless of technical background. With no need for costly equipment or training, communities can independently monitor and report water quality, encouraging broader participation in environmental stewardship.

Artboard 1 copy.png

AFFORDABILITY

Paper testing strips offer a low-cost solution for water monitoring, making them ideal for widespread, community use, especially in underserved areas. Their affordability supports large-scale participation without financial barriers or strain on the grassroot organizations and communities.

Artboard 1.png

ON-SITE RESULTS

The paper strips deliver immediate, easy-to-interpret results, allowing users to assess pollution levels directly on-site. This real-time feedback empowers individuals and communities to quickly evaluate environmental conditions, monitor changes over time, and take prompt, informed action when needed.

Firefly water testing strips color squares on vertical paper strips hand-held hand-size wi
Firefly water testing strips color squares on vertical paper strips hand-held hand-size wi

COMING SOON...

01 - L

WEBSITE

 

The website is a hub for the Environmental Reporting System, offering real-time data, AI chatbot support, and interactive tools. Users can upload sensor data, view water quality results, and track pollution trends. Visualizations and forums foster insight, collaboration, and community engagement.

AdobeStock_637565213_Preview.jpeg

COMING SOON...

DESKTOP WEBSITE

Screen Shot 2024-12-03 at 11.38.22 AM.png
imac-macintosh-computer-monitor-clip-art
Screen Shot 2024-12-03 at 11.38.45 AM.png
imac-macintosh-computer-monitor-clip-art
Screen Shot 2024-12-03 at 11.38.56 AM.png
imac-macintosh-computer-monitor-clip-art
Screen Shot 2024-12-03 at 11.38.45 AM.png
imac-macintosh-computer-monitor-clip-art
Screen Shot 2024-12-03 at 11.38.45 AM.png
imac-macintosh-computer-monitor-clip-art

COMING SOON...

COMING SOON...

Screen Shot 2024-12-03 at 11.39.07 AM.png
imac-macintosh-computer-monitor-clip-art
Screen Shot 2024-12-03 at 11.39.07 AM.png
imac-macintosh-computer-monitor-clip-art

COMING SOON...

LIVE WEBSITE

01 - M

CHATBOT AI

 

The AI-powered chatbot simplifies environmental reporting by guiding data entry, explaining sensor and water test results, and offering personalized pollution insights. It also provides educational resources and connects users to local advocacy groups, making complex data accessible and actionable for communities.

Field-Test_Field-Lab_Chatbot-Banner_1.jpg

MOBILE CHATBOT

Field-Test_Chatbot-1.png
Field-Test_Chatbot-3.png
Field-Test_Chatbot-2.png
unnamed.png
unnamed.png
unnamed.png
Field-Test_Field-Lab_Chatbot-Banner_2.jpg

01 - N
COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS & PUBLIC TRAINING SESSIONS

 Workshops and training sessions engage communities in using sensor kits, interpreting water tests, and navigating the reporting platform. Combining technical education with practical guidance, they empower participants of all skill levels to collect reliable data and support conservation. Often in partnership with local advocates, policymakers, and scientists, these sessions build skills, share knowledge, and foster networks for lasting environmental impact.

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

Firefly Citizen scientists environmental. Hipster, alternative aesthetics. outdoor. Photos

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution and water quality issues. Punk, tech

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

AdobeStock_948365524_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

01 - O
FUTURE STAKEHOLDERS

 The system’s success depends on engaging diverse stakeholders: local governments using data for policy, advocacy groups strengthening activism, educators incorporating monitoring into curricula, and sustainable corporations enhancing transparency. Tech developers also drive innovation in modularity and AI. Collaboration among these groups ensures ongoing growth, adoption, and shared commitment to environmental conservation.

Firefly Citizen scientists handling methane pollution and water quality issues. Punk, tech

PHOTO CREDIT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artboard 1 copy 2.png

GOVERNMENT +
POLICY MAKERS


Local, regional, and national agencies focused on environmental protection, urban planning, and public health can use the system’s real-time data to inform regulations, monitor compliance, and develop policies that reduce pollution and enhance community health.

Artboard 1 copy.png

COMMERCIAL & AGRICULTURAL 

Businesses and farms can use the system to monitor environmental impacts, manage resources efficiently, and meet sustainability goals. This supports responsible practices, reduces pollution, and improves compliance with regulations while promoting eco-friendly operations.

Artboard 1.png

ACADEMIC + TECH INNOVATORS

Universities, researchers, and tech developers support system refinement and expansion. They use the platform for data collection, studies, and improving technology, while industries leverage it for environmental monitoring and compliance.

AdobeStock_1507179698_Preview.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBE STOCK IMAGES

NEXT PROJECT

Ⓒ ESTHER KRUPP DESIGN. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 2025

bottom of page