GM Seminar: Can AI help us tackle air pollution?
This event is part of the GM Policy Hub Seminar Series. In each seminar we focus on a different regional policy agenda, with a University of Manchester academic presenting their research on the topic, followed by a policy response and audience Q&A.
Imagine asking AI for data on the health impacts of issues such as mould exposure and receiving a reliable answer. Artificial intelligence, alongside strong metadata frameworks, is emerging as a powerful tool for breaking down barriers to data discovery.
AI, especially large language models (LLMs), offers a transformative opportunity in how we search and interact with data itself. These technologies can be harnessed for good to answer questions that traditionally require expert triage and access to siloed data sources.
Join us on Tuesday, 31 March to hear about research into perceptions of LLMs in data discovery and the importance of access to quality data in solving environmental problems such as air pollution. Professor David Topping will discuss ways to unlock the potential for environmental data to inform real-world solutions to wicked problems through toolkits like the Digital Solutions Hub.
When: Tuesday, 31 March 2026, 13.00 - 14.30 (with registration from 12.30)
Where: The University of Manchester - room confirmed on registration.
Speakers:
Professor David Topping, Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester
Chaired by Professor Cecilia Wong, Professor of Spatial Planning, Planning, Property and Environmental Management and Academic Co-Director of Policy@Manchester
To Register: Please email policy@manchester with your name, job title, organisation and any dietary or access requirements we should be aware of.
Price: Free- Registration required via policy@manchester.ac.uk
Travel and Contact Information
Find event
Room confirmed upon registration - please email policy@manchester.ac.uk
Oxford Road
Manchester
