According to new information released by The World Health Organisation, the air we breathe in our own homes could be more harmful to our health than the pollution we’re exposed to outdoors.
The World Health Organisation believes indoor air pollution is one of the top 10 risks for global disease, with recent Australian studies continuing to demonstrate links with a number of respiratory diseases such as asthma, pneumonia and chronic pulmonary disease. Evidence shows that people are potentially exposed to harmful gasses in their homes every day, via house furnishings and materials used to decorate.
The air in our homes potentially contains radioactive radon from granite kitchen benchtops, cancer-inducing formaldehyde and benzene from laminate furniture or MDF board, and even acrylic paint on our walls can be a source of irritation to asthma-sufferers.
With Australians now spending on average around ninety five per cent of their time indoors — according to CSIRO research — the associated health risks are becoming more of a concern to major health organisations. What is particularly worrying is that our misconception of outdoor pollution could be exaccerbating the issue.
According to Steve Brown, a CSIRO consultant, many homes are now purposely built to minimise ventilation in order to keep out the outdoor air, wrongly perceived to be polluted and bad. However, stale indoor air combined with off-gassing materials actually creates greater health risks, says Brown.
Ironically, it is natural ventilation from outdoor air that serves as one of the best solutions to indoor air pollution, and leaving a window open to air your home should be considered a vital part of regular housekeeping.
Other ways to minimise your home’s noxious gas emissions:
Grow indoor plants, which serve as natural air filters
Check the radon count on any granite or natural stone products
Avoid buying furnishings, curtains, kitchen cabinets, floor coverings and paint finishes that contain indoor air pollutants
Clean with plant-based cleaning chemicals rather than synthetic products
YOUR SAY: Do you keep your home well ventilated? And are you aware of the risks from household materials? Tell us below!
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