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In our industralized world, our air is subject to intense pollution that negatively impacts our environment and human health.
Defying common sense to some, our indoor air is often 2 to 5 times and even occasionally 100 times higher than outdoor levels, according to the Envrionmetal Protection Agency (EPA).
“In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities,” the EPA says.
“While pollutant levels from individual sources may not pose a significant health risk by themselves, most homes have more than one source that contributes to indoor air pollution. There can be a serious risk from the cumulative effects of these sources.”
From oil and gas to building materials and furnishings to cleaning products, our indoor air can be polluted by a wide variety of sources.
However, there are two simple ways to combat it and improve the air quality in your home.
READ MORE: ‘Easy to grow’ houseplants can purify air in the home and improve your health
Two ways to improve the air quality in your home
1. Getting houseplants for your home
There are a host of benefits to keeping houseplants in your home. There are a handful of great species for beginners, such as snake plants and peace lilys, but regardless of your pick, all plants will naturally purify your air.
This is because through photosynthesis and respiration, plants absorb carbon dioxide – one of the most common air pollutants – and releases oxygen.
There are numerous studies showing the mental, physical and environmental benefits of gardening, from increased creativity and productivity to enhanced concentration and memory and reduced stress and fatigue, according to Healthline.
Some experts say it can even improve your quality of sleep.
2. Crack your windows open
Keeping your windows open, when possible, will help filter out the indoor air from your home, says Amit Rosner, co-founder of the free non-toxic shopping app, Clearya, who also has a background in bioinformatics.
“Another tip is, when you can, leave the windows open because we think about air pollution but also our indoor air so often is polluted because of flame retardants, phthalates, home dust and other things,” he tells the Daily Express. “
When we open [the windows], we reduce our indoor pollution.”
Amit and his wife Chen have also shared their tips for reducing our exposure to hazardous chemicals when shopping for everything from cleaning products to cosmetics and clothes with the Daily Express.
