NODOS App
OVERVIEW & PROBLEM
Barcelona is a vibrant and lively city, but hidden in its streets is an invisible threat that directly impacts the health of its residents: air pollution.
The levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the city often exceed the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). This isn’t just an environmental concern, it’s a public health crisis.
Every year, air pollution is estimated to cause around 3,000 premature deaths in Barcelona. Even more alarming, 15% of childhood asthma cases in the city are linked to exposure to NO2.
Despite the magnitude of the problem, for many people, pollution remains something distant or abstract — hard to see, hard to feel, and even harder to act on.
MY ROLE
As part of the team from the very beginning, I was involved in both the research and design phases of the project. Early on, I participated in user research to better understand their needs, behaviors, and concerns around air quality. Later, I focused fully on the UI design and the development of the visual identity — creating an interface and a design system that made complex environmental data feel approachable, clear, and easy to engage with.
RESEARCH PHASE
Before jumping into solutions, we wanted to understand how air quality actually impacts people’s daily lives beyond statistics or numbers.
Benchmarking: We started by analyzing the market through benchmarking, exploring existing products and services related to air quality. This helped us identify gaps and opportunities. But the most valuable part came from talking directly to users.
User Interviews : We conducted interviews and surveys with people who experience air pollution in very different ways: people with asthma, runners, cyclists, seniors, people with chronic sinusitis, and healthcare professionals.
KEY INSIGHTS
“People want to protect their health, but need clear and real-time information”
“Users naturally adapt their routines by choosing greener and safer routes”
“Most people don’t fully understand air quality or its impact on their health”
“Education and guidance are essential to help people take action in their daily lives”
INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
WIREFRAMES
BRANDING
SOLUTION
At Nodos, we turn environmental data into healthier everyday decisions. We designed a platform that helps people move around the city more safely, providing real-time air quality information, routes with lower pollution exposure, and personalized recommendations based on each user’s profile and needs. Beyond showing air quality levels, temperature, humidity, or pollen, users can create and save healthy routes, receive tailored alerts, and access practical tips for their health and well-being. Nodos not only informs but also encourages positive habits through challenges and daily learning, creating a meaningful impact on people and their communities.
