Kawaiicon, New Zealand’s premier hacker conference, has taken a proactive approach to addressing attendees’ health concerns by launching a real-time carbon dioxide monitoring system in its venue. The system provides detailed air quality data for each room, helping attendees make informed decisions about their safety.
The monitoring system, which uses DIY CO2 monitors and an internet-accessible dashboard, was installed throughout the Michael Fowler Centre venue before the conference began on November 6. Attendees can now check public online dashboards for clean air readings in session rooms, kids’ areas, the front desk, and more.
Kawaiicon’s organizers worked closely with researchers from the University of Otago’s public health department to test their CO2 monitors and ensure they were effective in detecting airborne viruses. Elevated levels of CO2 can lead to reduced cognitive ability and transmission of airborne viruses, making CO2 data a handy proxy for tracing pathogens.
The conference organizers faced significant challenges, including managing a large event during a measles outbreak and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. They chose a budget-friendly filtration choice (MERV-8) but were limited by the venue’s older HVAC system and lack of technology to control air flow.
Kawaiicon’s innovative approach aims to empower attendees to take control of their health, particularly those with different risk tolerance models. By providing detailed CO2 data, the conference encourages attendees to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being.
The monitoring system has received praise from industry experts, including Jeff Moss, founder of Defcon and Black Hat security conferences, who praised Kawaiicon’s initiative as a true spirit of hacking. The success of this project demonstrates that innovative solutions can be implemented with minimal resources, making it accessible to conference organizers worldwide.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/this-hacker-conference-installed-a-literal-anti-virus-monitoring-system