Soon after joining URBREATH , an European initiative aimed at improving urban air quality through advanced monitoring and data-driven action , Cluj-Napoca integrated several dozen uRADMonitor® sensors across the city. The project brings together research institutions, technology providers, and local authorities to build networks of environmental sensors, collect real-time pollution data, and involve communities in addressing air quality challenges. With smart solutions like uRADMonitor®, URBREATH is helping Cluj-Napoca and other European cities foster healthier environments and develop informed policies for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Cluj-Napoca Universities Several next-generation uRADMonitor® MODEL CITY sensors , featuring the latest hardware revision and built-in GSM connectivity for reliable, fully standalone operation , have now been installed across Cluj-Napoca. These high-precision units track particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, PM10) alongside toxic gases at an exceptional 1 ppb resolution, including ozone (O₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO).
Purpose-built for urban environments, the MODEL CITY is a compact, industrial-grade air quality monitor that seamlessly combines advanced gas detection, particulate measurement, and cellular networking. Its robust design makes it ideal for city-wide monitoring projects where both accuracy and reliability are crucial.

In a complementary deployment, Cluj-Napoca also received a batch of uRADMonitor® MODEL A3 sensors. These versatile, multi-parameter environmental monitors measure particulate matter, multiple toxic gases, temperature, humidity, and air pressure , delivering a complete picture of air quality. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the MODEL A3 helps communities, researchers, and policymakers understand pollution trends and take informed action.

A bit of history

The model A3 was designed and first produced back in 2016. The very batch of 10 sensors, was deployed in Cluj-Napoca back in 2016, in partnership with Orange Romania (series 82000001 and up). These are still operating reliably today after nine years! This longevity highlights the exceptional design quality and durability of this uRADMonitor product, especially considering its placement in public transportation, where it has withstood vibrations, pressure washing, and wide seasonal temperature changes. We are committed to advancing technology so we can continue to achieve engineering breakthroughs like this.

For the current project, the latest 10th hardware version of the MODEL A3 sensors has been deployed. It is upgraded with new Stevenson-type protective enclosures and GSM connectivity for stable and accurate performance even under harsh outdoor conditions.

Cluj-Napoca’s Top Universities drive the research effort

Babeș-Bolyai University and the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca play a key role in Cluj-Napoca’s climate neutrality efforts by providing scientific expertise, digital monitoring tools, and research support. Working closely with the uRADMonitor network, they help collect and analyse high-resolution air quality and urban climate data, inform evidence-based urban planning, and contribute to applied research and iterative learning processes that guide the city’s decarbonisation strategies.

This real-time environmental data is essential for assessing the impact of decarbonisation measures, understanding microclimate dynamics, and supporting evidence-based urban planning. The partnership between uRADMonitor, local universities, and research centres ensures that scientific expertise directly informs Cluj-Napoca’s path to net-zero, offering a replicable model for cities across Europe.

Global Performance: uRADMonitor Sensors Compete Again in AIRLAB 2025

uRADMonitor® CITY and MODEL A3 like those deployed in Cluj-Napoca are currently competing in the prestigious AIRPARIF AIRLAB 2025 Microsensor Challenge, a benchmark event for evaluating air quality monitoring technologies under real-world conditions. This is not the first time uRADMonitor has been put to the test—both models follow in the footsteps of previous company successes, with uRADMonitor winning top recognition in the 2021 and 2023 editions. These repeated achievements underscore the exceptional accuracy, reliability, and innovation behind uRADMonitor’s designs, solidifying their reputation as world-class environmental monitoring solutions, making them an excellent choice for city-wide applications.

uRADMontior MODEL CITY and MODEL A3 sensors deployed in Cluj-Napoca

The City Hall ordered the installation of the sensors in specific locations, carefully chosen to maximise the monitoring effort, practically covering the entire city. EDS Profesional SRL was in charge of installing the sensors. EDS is a Romanian company specialised in advanced security solutions, including alarm systems, video surveillance, and fire detection. With a versatile technical team, the company also delivers custom projects such as sound systems for schools and conference halls, integrated hardware & software solutions, and modern parking management systems. This adaptability and expertise make EDS Profesional a trusted partner for implementing innovative urban technology projects like the uRADMonitor sensor network in Cluj-Napoca.

Conclusions

The deployment of uRADMonitor® sensors across Cluj-Napoca marks a significant step forward in the city’s commitment to cleaner air and healthier living conditions. By delivering real-time, high-precision measurements of particulate matter and toxic gases, the network empowers both authorities and citizens with actionable insights on local air quality. This initiative strengthens Cluj-Napoca’s role within the European URBREATH project, fostering collaboration between technology providers, researchers, and the community. The public can access live sensor readings directly on the City Hall’s official air quality webpage, ensuring transparency and engagement in the fight against pollution and contributing to increased environmental awareness.