High-dimensional spatiotemporal visual analysis of the air quality in China

Air quality is a significant environmental issue among the Chinese people and even the global population, and it affects both human health and the Earth’s long-term sustainability. In this study, we proposed a multiperspective, high-dimensional spatiotemporal data visualization and interactive analysis method, and we studied and analyzed the relationship between the air quality and several influencing factors, including meteorology, population, and economics. Six visualization methods were integrated in this study, each specifically designed and improved for visualization analysis purposes. To reveal the spatiotemporal distribution and potential impact of the air quality, we designed a comprehensive coupled visual interactive analysis approach visually express both high-dimensional and spatiotemporal attributes, reveal the overall situation and explain the relationship between attributes. We clarified the current spatiotemporal distribution, development trends, and influencing factors of the air quality in China through interactive visual analysis of a 25-dimensional dataset involving 31 Chinese provinces. We also verified the correctness and effectiveness of relevant policies and demonstrated the advantages of our method.