20 ways to reduce indoor air pollution in your home

Improving Indoor Air Quality: A Sustainable Approach

The following report provides a checklist to tackle indoor air pollution and improve air quality inside your home. These actions align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations to ensure a sustainable future for all.

1. Choose natural cleaning products over chemical agents

Be a smart consumer by checking labels for toxic ingredients. Many common household cleaners contain formaldehyde, sodium hydroxide, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that vaporize inside your home. By opting for natural cleaning products, you contribute to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

2. Keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent mold growth

Maintaining indoor humidity within the safe range of 30% to 50% reduces mold growth, as recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Consider using a moisture alarm to monitor humidity levels and prevent mold-related health issues. This action supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

3. Regularly change air filters on your HVAC system

As part of preventative maintenance, change the air filters on your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system every one to three months based on your usage. This practice ensures cleaner air circulation and contributes to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.

4. Use air-purifying plants to naturally filter the air

Introduce air-purifying plants like spider plants, snake plants, and ferns into your home to naturally filter toxins. This action aligns with SDG 15: Life on Land, as it promotes the preservation of biodiversity.

5. Open windows and doors for fresh air circulation

Create natural ventilation by opening windows and doors to improve indoor air quality. This simple step contributes to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting a healthier living environment.

6. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture and pollutants

Install exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to quickly remove moisture, smoke, and odors. This practice supports SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation by preventing the growth of mold and improving overall hygiene.

7. Vacuum carpets and rugs regularly to remove dust and allergens

Regularly vacuum carpets and rugs to remove dust, allergens, and pollutants that accumulate over time. This action contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action by reducing the release of harmful particles into the atmosphere.

8. Install a natural gas alarm

Install a natural gas alarm in your home to detect any leaks and prevent the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful pollutants. This action aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by promoting safer and cleaner energy sources.

9. Keep pets groomed and limit their access to certain areas

Groom your pets regularly to prevent dander and allergens from becoming airborne. Additionally, change HVAC filters more frequently if you have pets in your home. By implementing these measures, you contribute to SDG 15: Life on Land by ensuring the well-being of both humans and animals.

10. Store chemicals and other hazardous materials in a safe place

Store chemicals and hazardous materials in a secure location to prevent leaks and seepage that can introduce airborne pollutants into your home. This action supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting safe handling and storage practices.

11. Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home

Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to detect this odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly to humans. This action aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by ensuring a safe living environment.

12. Properly ventilate appliances

Ensure proper ventilation for appliances such as furnaces and stoves by consulting an HVAC contractor. Proper ventilation prevents the accumulation of dangerous fumes, gases, and smoke, contributing to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.

13. Avoid using aerosol sprays and air fresheners

Avoid using aerosol sprays and air fresheners, as they can increase indoor air pollution and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). By opting for alternative methods, you support SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

14. Clean bedding and linens regularly to reduce dust mites

Wash bedding at least once a week to reduce dust mites and maintain high air quality around your bed. This action contributes to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by preventing allergies and respiratory issues.

15. Use natural pest control methods instead of chemical pesticides

Choose natural pest control methods, such as diatomaceous earth, essential oils, and nontoxic tape traps, to avoid the use of chemical pesticides. This practice supports SDG 15: Life on Land by promoting sustainable and eco-friendly pest management.

16. Test for and mitigate radon levels in the home

Regularly test for radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that may lead to lung cancer. Mitigate radon levels in your home to ensure a safe living environment and contribute to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.

17. Use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity

If you live in an area with high humidity, use a dehumidifier to control mold and mildew levels. This action aligns with SDG 13: Climate Action by promoting sustainable living conditions.

18. Choose low-VOC paint and furniture

When selecting paint and furniture, choose low-VOC products to reduce exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This practice supports SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting sustainable and eco-friendly materials.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The article discusses various measures to improve indoor air quality, which directly relates to the goal of promoting good health and well-being.

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

Although not the main focus of the article, maintaining indoor air quality can indirectly contribute to reducing pollution and improving water quality.

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

The article suggests using natural gas alarms to detect leaks and prevent the release of harmful pollutants into the air, aligning with the goal of promoting clean energy.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

The article emphasizes the importance of paying attention to air quality in cities and reducing the adverse environmental impact of urban areas.

SDG 13: Climate Action

While not explicitly mentioned in the article, improving indoor air quality can contribute to climate action by reducing the release of pollutants and promoting sustainable practices.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Under SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, the specific target is to reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air pollution.

Under SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, the specific target is to improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals.

Under SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, the specific target is to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services.

Under SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, the specific target is to reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality management.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

The article does not explicitly mention any indicators. However, based on the content, the following indicators can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

For SDG 3:

– Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.

– Indicator 3.9.2: Mortality rate attributed to unsafe water, unsafe sanitation, and lack of hygiene.

For SDG 6:

– Indicator 6.3.2: Proportion of bodies of water with good ambient water quality.

For SDG 7:

– Indicator 7.1.2: Proportion of population with primary reliance on clean fuels and technology.

For SDG 11:

– Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5) in cities.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators