Despite the health risks associated with air pollution and the availability of data, public awareness of air quality remains limited. This paper examines communication strategies to enhance awareness in Germany and North Macedonia. Using the Design-Based Implementation Research approach, literature reviews, stakeholder interviews and surveys were conducted with 307 participants to identify knowledge gaps and effective methods. Three citizen workshops led to the development and evaluation of five design prototypes, including an interactive installation (“Pollution Booth”), a VR application (“Visible Particulate Matter”), and a gamified learning experience (“End Game”). These prototypes addressed information accessibility, data representation, and environmentally conscious behavior. The results show that region-specific communication, interactive designs, and passive information methods in public spaces significantly improve the perception and understanding of air pollution data. Gamified approaches, such as the “End Game” prototype, were particularly effective in educating children about air pollution. Thirty-two requirements for effective educational strategies were identified, including simplified data visualization, reduced content, and personalized information. The findings highlight the importance of local and personalized approaches, as well as methods for collective knowledge sharing, in promoting awareness and environmentally friendly behavior. Future work should further explore the long-term engagement and sustainable impact of such communication strategies.