Strategies To Combat Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution is a serious issue that can have detrimental effects on human health. Spending a significant amount of time indoors, especially at home, means that people are often exposed to higher levels of air pollutants than they would outdoors. These pollutants can be introduced through various means, such as cooking with solid fuels, using inefficient stoves, or even brought in from outside. To reduce indoor air pollution, it is essential to address the sources and implement strategies to minimize the release of pollutants. This can be achieved through proper ventilation, using natural cleaning products, opting for low-emission building materials, and leveraging the power of indoor plants to purify the air.

Avoid harsh cleaning products and opt for natural alternatives

The air inside your home can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside. Many household and cleaning products, including soaps, polishes, and grooming supplies, often contain harmful chemicals. These chemicals can irritate the eyes and throat, cause headaches, and lead to other health issues, especially for children and pets. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), commonly found in aerosol spray products, are released into the air and contribute to chronic respiratory problems, allergies, and headaches. Natural fragrances like citrus can also react to produce dangerous indoor pollutants.

To avoid indoor air pollution, opt for natural, non-toxic, and biodegradable cleaning products. These products are made with sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients that are safe for your family and the environment. Many companies offering natural alternatives also give back to communities and social causes and offer zero-waste and refill options. You can find these products at large retailers, natural grocery stores, zero-waste shops, or online.

When choosing cleaning products, look for those that do not contain VOCs, fragrances, irritants, or flammable ingredients. Avoid air fresheners altogether, as manufacturers are not required to list all ingredients, and products labelled "green" may not be safer. Research reliable sources, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's list of products that meet its Safer Choice requirements. Simple alternatives like warm water and soap, or baking soda for scrubbing, are effective and safe. A mix of vinegar and water can also be used for cleaning glass and disinfecting kitchen surfaces.

By choosing natural alternatives, you can maintain a clean and safe living environment without exposing your family to harmful fumes or residues.

Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom

Exhaust fans are an effective way to improve indoor air quality and reduce air pollution in your home. They are particularly useful in the kitchen and bathroom, where activities like cooking, bathing, and sanitation can create airborne pollutants.

The Home Ventilating Institute recommends a high level of air circulation in the kitchen and bathroom. The air in your kitchen should be replaced a minimum of fifteen times per hour, which means every four minutes, all the air in the room needs to be replaced by new air. Bathrooms require a minimum of eight air changes per hour. Exhaust fans help to achieve these levels of ventilation by removing pollutants and moisture from the air and blowing them outside. This is especially important in modern airtight homes, where there is a greater need for ventilation to ensure healthy air circulation.

There are two main types of exhaust fans: ducted and non-ducted. Ducted exhaust fans remove pollutants and moisture from the indoor air by sucking them through the fan and blowing them outside. This is important as simply discharging the air into an attic or other confined space can lead to wood rot, mould, and mildew. It can also be a fire hazard if the fan is above a stove, as the flames and fire can be sucked up into the attic, increasing the intensity of the fire. Non-ducted exhaust fans work by filtering air through charcoal before releasing it back into the living space.

When installing exhaust fans, it is important to consider the replacement air, or makeup air, that needs to enter your house to replace the exhausted air. Without this, problems can arise, especially in airtight homes.

By using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom, you can improve indoor air quality, maintain healthy air circulation, and reduce the growth of mould and mildew, thereby creating a more comfortable and healthy indoor environment.

Avoid open fires and charcoal grills inside

Burning charcoal produces carbon monoxide, a colourless and odourless gas that can be deadly. Charcoal should never be burned inside homes, vehicles, tents, or campers. Even with ventilation, the gas can accumulate to toxic levels in closed environments. Each year, there are about 20 deaths and 400 injuries from carbon monoxide poisoning due to charcoal grills. Therefore, it is imperative to keep charcoal and gas grills outside.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines for indoor air quality and household fuel combustion to address household air pollution and its adverse health effects. The guidelines offer practical advice on clean fuels and technologies, such as solar, electricity, biogas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas, alcohol fuels, and biomass stoves that meet emission targets. These recommendations aim to reduce the use of polluting fuels and stoves for cooking, which disproportionately affect women and children who spend more time exposed to harmful smoke.

WHO's guidelines also emphasize addressing all household energy uses, particularly cooking, space heating, and lighting, to ensure health and environmental benefits. In addition to the health risks, indoor air pollution can also be a fire hazard. Grills can release dangerous chemicals, and it is essential to keep them away from deck railings and any structures, including your home, garage, or shed.

To minimize indoor air pollution, it is crucial to ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows when the weather is suitable. This helps promote healthy indoor air quality and reduces the concentration of pollutants. However, it is important to note that open windows can also allow outdoor air pollutants to enter, so finding the right balance is essential.

Opt for low-emitting building materials and furnishings

The selection of building materials and furnishings significantly impacts indoor environmental quality. Many common building materials, such as paint, carpeting, pressed wood products, and adhesives, emit chemicals during and after installation, compromising indoor air quality. These chemicals, known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), off-gas into the air and can cause various health issues, including eye and respiratory irritation, headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms associated with sick building syndrome.

To improve indoor air quality and protect human health, it is essential to opt for low-emitting building materials and furnishings. Low-emitting products do not release significant pollutants into the indoor environment and are now widely available, making it easier for professionals and consumers to make healthier choices. When selecting materials, look for those that are GREENGUARD Certified, as they have been tested and certified for low chemical emissions. Many low-VOC and No-VOC paints, finishes, and recycled content carpets are cost-competitive with conventional options and meet strict certification requirements for use in schools and healthcare facilities.

In addition to paints and carpets, other low-emitting materials to consider include HDPE (high-density polyethylene) products, such as toilet partitions and lockers, which are designed to meet air quality and sustainability standards. Wood product manufacturers are also transitioning to non-toxic substitutes, replacing formaldehyde-based bonding resins. It is important to avoid building materials and products containing formaldehyde resins, as formaldehyde is a known indoor air pollutant.

By choosing low-emitting materials, you can significantly enhance the indoor air quality of your projects or living spaces while also reducing your environmental impact. This approach aligns with the recommendations provided by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), which emphasizes the importance of transitioning to cleaner fuels and technologies to protect health and the environment. Additionally, simple actions such as opening windows for ventilation and using exhaust fans can further help to reduce indoor air pollution.

Keep indoor spaces clean, dry, and well-ventilated

Keeping indoor spaces clean, dry, and well-ventilated is crucial to maintaining good air quality and ensuring a healthy living or working environment. Here are some detailed guidelines to achieve this:

Cleanliness

• Establish a routine cleaning schedule: Develop a consistent cleaning routine for all areas, including hard-to-reach places like ventilation grilles and under furniture. Regular and thorough cleaning helps reduce dust, allergens, and other contaminants that can contribute to indoor air pollution.
• Use environmentally friendly cleaning products: Opt for low-VOC or no-VOC cleaning products, paints, and materials to minimize the introduction of harsh chemicals and pollutants into the indoor environment.
• Pay attention to areas prone to moisture: Keep areas like kitchens and bathrooms clean and dry. Use exhaust or extractor fans to remove cooking fumes and steam, and ensure your dryer vents to the outside to minimize lint buildup.
• Maintain a tidy dining area: Keep the dining table neat and clean. Remove any food stains, sweep up spills, and regularly wash and dry dishes, utensils, and the sink.

Ventilation

• Open windows and doors: Whenever possible, utilize natural ventilation by opening windows and doors, especially in areas with high occupancy or potential pollutant sources. This promotes a constant supply of fresh air and helps remove stale air, improving both your physical and mental health.
• Use air purifiers: In addition to natural ventilation, consider using air purifiers, especially in high-traffic areas or spaces with specific air quality concerns.
• Monitor indoor air quality: Utilize indoor air quality monitors to track pollutant levels and ensure a healthy environment. Place them in key areas, such as conference rooms, lobbies, or high-occupancy zones, and take immediate action if pollutant levels exceed acceptable limits.
• Maintain HVAC systems: Ensure that Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are well-maintained and capable of effectively controlling humidity. Schedule regular maintenance, including frequent filter replacements, to maintain optimal air quality and system efficiency.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively keep indoor spaces clean, dry, and well-ventilated, contributing to a healthier and more comfortable environment for occupants.

Frequently asked questions