According to WHO air pollution has become one of the primary health concerns of the 21st century. Air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year. WHO data shows that 9 out of 10 people breathe air containing high levels of pollutants. The epidemic of air pollution outdoors is very well documented in the news particularly in countries like China and India where the air pollution causes an estimated 4.2 million deaths a year.
Of course, we must highlight the recent tragedy that took place in Australia and the dramatic affects the fires had on the air quality with many people having to wear gas masks to get to work, tennis players retiring at the Australian Open due to poor air quality, and an increased risk of hospitalization due to respiratory diseases.
Whilst there is a clear indication that the ambient pollution in some areas may not be beneficial for our health, should being indoors and in the comfort of our homes be regarded as safe?
Unfortunately, a misconception of indoor air quality and perhaps a lack of understanding prevent many of us from realizing the dangers of poor air quality in our homes. Pollutants in our homes can source from cooking, cleaning, lighting scented candles or simply buying new furniture so the very air we breathe at night contains a cocktail of particles that may be contributing to ill health.
While gases such as carbon monoxide and radon are known to be harmful to health, evidence on the health impacts of other substances is less clear. The UK indoor air quality document outlines where many of these air pollutants are distributed around our homes.
We should care about this because the majority of people spend 90% of their lives indoors and if this is the case, we should be taking indoor air quality seriously. In fact, creating good indoor environmental quality (IEQ) by improving not only indoor air quality, but also lighting and acoustics, is increasingly recognized as improving people’s health and comfort, and physical and mental wellbeing. It also provides opportunities to reduce healthcare costs.
New and refurbished offices are certainly improving the indoor air quality by implementing air purifiers, plants, and reducing the exposure to toxins from things like carpet, paint and furniture by being more sustainable with product choices. Standards like WELL building are also supporting building occupants with their well-researched strategies.
How can we improve our indoor air quality at home?
Keep your home clean. Good indoor hygiene can cut down the dust and accumulation of pet hair as well as mold.
Invest in an air purifier especially one equipped with HEPA filter. You can keep it on all day or turn it off if no one is in the house. They usually take about 2 hours to filter the room air. Make sure you change the filters regularly or as stated.
Planting is a controversial topic as many people believe that having plants will support our indoor air quality and improve the oxygen levels, but others suggest that they can collect dust and foster things liked mold. It boils down to personal preference.
Let the fresh air in. Fresh air can help to move potential contaminants and it’s just nice to allow your home to have some fresh air flowing around.
Be more mindful of your product purchases for the house especially when decorating.
