WHEN YOU CAN’T BREATH NOTHING ELSE MATTERS

 The American Environmental Protection Agency rates indoor air pollution among the worlds top environmental health risks because most Americans spend 90% of their time indoors.  This is no different in Australia or other countries throughout the world, whether it be in developed or undeveloped countries. Over the past forty years, exposure to indoor air pollutants has increased dramatically for a variety of reasons.  Today's homes and buildings, through improved manufacturing and design processes are more tightly sealed and don't provide proper natural ventilation.  We've also increased our use of synthetic building materials and furnishings, chemically formulated personal care products, cleaning supplies and pesticides.  It is now accepted through extensive international research, that poor indoor air quality can lead to a variety of health problems, including toxic and allergic reactions, infections and even the big 'C' cancer.  The state has estimated that in excess of 200 cancer cases per year are due to indoor air pollution sources in addition to many non-cancer effects.   It also contributes to asthma and other lung diseases.  The research has established without doubt that there are a variety of sources of indoor air pollution, including building materials, combustible sources, biological pollutants and household chemical products.

 Materials utilized in building and remodelling such as pressed wood, particle board, carpeting, laminated flooring and permanent press fabrics used for soft furnishings contain chemicals that can irritate your lungs including formaldehyde.  Emissions of formaldehyde are highest when products are new.  When you buy new furniture, drapes and carpets, air them out in your garage for a few days before bringing them inside.  When you get new carpet, furniture, drapes, or any remodelling undertaken in your house or business, open up your windows and doors and where possible run exhaust fans for the first week.  Increased ventilation in time will reduce humidity and assist in the reduction of formaldehyde levels.

 Combustible sources include such things as tobacco, wood stoves, fireplaces, kerosene and natural gas.  The most dangerous pollutant caused by combustible sources is carbon monoxide, a colourless, odourless gas that can kill you.  Combustible sources can also emit significant amounts of nitrogen dioxide and particles.  Never let anyone smoke in your house.

 Moulds, mildew's, bacteria, dropping from dust mites and other insects, animal dander and viruses are all biological pollutants.  They can be inhaled alone or by attaching themselves to particles of dust.  You can never get rid of biological pollutants completely but you can limit their growth.  Live, well-maintained interior plants are one such method utilized globally to reduce building material, biological, combustible and household chemical pollutants.  Extensive global research clearly defines the distinct beneficial outcomes of the utilization of the use of interior/exterior, well maintained live plants to people, businesses and the general well being of the global population.

 Source;  Air Quality News USA Spring/Summer 2002