Houston, we have an Indoor Air Quality Problem

Unlike other cities, in Houston, we spend most of our time (estimated at 90%) indoors. Because of the heat and because of air quality problems – like ozone levels – we usually believe that buildings are healthier. However, although indoor environments may feel safer, it’s important to remember that indoor air quality too can effect our health.

The EPA ranks indoor air quality among the five largest environmental dangers to the public. They also have found that air indoors can be anywhere from about 2 to 5 times as polluted as outdoor air. For a city like Houston, that’s rated the 3^rd most toxic city in the nation where outdoor air quality is concerned, these numbers are troubling.

The Texas Department of State Health Services finds that “building materials and furnishings; biologicals; products for household cleaning, personal care, or hobbies; central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices; pesticides; oil, gas, kerosene, or wood combustion sources” are the primary sources of indoor air quality problems. They also report that poor indoor air quality can lead to “irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and allergy-type symptoms.” And more seriously, “asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and humidifier fever can also affect some individuals after exposure to certain indoor air pollutants.” This list of health problems that can emerge from our homes and spend so much time in is startling.

However, rather than living in fear of both the heat outdoors and the pollution indoors we can make smart decisions to make our indoor environments healthier. Start by reading about various pollutants in everyday products in your home online from reliable sources. Also, try to follow these three rules when shopping for things for your home:

1. Look for products that don’t contain any Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)
2. Buy organic – buying organic usually means products haven’t been treated chemically
3. Look for corporate transparency – corporations and stores that tell you what’s in there product usually have healthier products.

Although indoor air quality in Houston is a problem, one needn’t live in fear. Instead, being conscious of what is in your home and around you is the best way to protect your family and your health.

Find out more:

Air Alliance Houston – read reports and get the local information about air quality

The EPA – find out specifics about what’s causing air quality problems in your home and more facts

BuildClean – learn about the sources of air quality problems in your home

Texas Department of Health State Services on Indoor Quality and Indoor Air Quality Programs in Texas

Related posts:

1. 25 ways to improve your indoor air quality
2. American Lung Association event at New Living 6-11-09 10:30-11:30AM