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Why in News: Indoor air pollution is a significant concern in India, especially in urban areas where people spend most of their time indoors (70-90%). Policy focus remains largely on outdoor pollution, neglecting IAQ.
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What is IAQ: Refers to air quality within buildings, impacting health and comfort.
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Common Pollutants: CO, formaldehyde, asbestos, radon, lead, mould, pesticides, smoke, allergens.
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Reasons for Deteriorating IAQ:
- Outdoor pollutants entering buildings.
- Indoor activities: cooking, smoking, cleaning.
- Overcrowding limits pollutant dispersion.
- Lack of awareness and regulation.
- Solid fuels for cooking in rural areas and in urban areas the switch to cleaner fuels such as gas has mostly been made, there are several other sources of indoor air pollution
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Impact:
- India recorded the highest average annual indoor PM2.5 levels globally.
- Household air pollution causes millions of premature deaths annually.
- Poor ventilation leads to “sick building syndrome.”
- Linked to noncommunicable diseases.
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Solutions:
- Air purifiers with HEPA filters.
- Indoor plants.
- Clean fuels and technologies.
- Low-VOC materials.
- Health-focused building practices (IGBC, Eco-Niwas Samhita).
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Better design can help indoor air pollution: Prioritising indoor air quality in design is crucial, says Mahesh Ramanujam, president & CEO,Global Network for Zero, an independent green certification body helping businesses, buildings, and cities achieve net-zero emissions. One major reason for indoor air pollution, he points out is that there is a lack of good ventilation. Incorporate skylights, daylight into pathways and hallways and designing spaces that allow for the movement of people, can help. This can be combined with the use of air purifier units, high quality HEPA filters to keep out particulate matters and using toxin-free cleaners and greenery where possible, to help with improved air and better health.
Indoor Air Quality
