The quality of the air we breathe today has been adversely impacted by pollutants. We can check on outdoor air quality by logging on daily to the Air Quality Index published by AIRNow at http://airnow.gov/. Indoor air quality is more difficult to measure.

In recent years, scientific research has learned that levels of indoor air pollution may be worse than outdoor levels. Most people spend close to 90% of their time indoors. Age and preexisting medical conditions can intensify reactions to pollutants. Elderly, young, or chronically ill people can be particularly affected by the build-up of gases or particles in the air. There are risks that we can avoid if we have the knowledge and desire to change the environment around us.

Being aware of the potential sources for pollution will help you assess the air quality in your home. Indoor air problems are caused by pollutant sources and ventilation problems:

1)   Pollutant sources include combustion sources; building materials and furnishings; products for household cleaning and maintenance, personal care, or hobbies; central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices; and outdoor sources such as radon, pesticides, and outdoor air pollution.

2)   The amount of outdoor air entering a home, if not sufficient, can increase indoor pollution levels. Mechanical means of ventilation can help "tight" homes.

To improve the air quality in your home, three basic strategies can be used:

1)   Eliminate individual sources of pollution or reduce those emissions.

2)   Increase the amount of outdoor air being brought indoors to lower the concentrations of indoor pollutants. Open windows and doors, and fans in windows, attics, bathrooms and kitchens can help remove contaminants and increase the outdoor ventilation rate.

3)  Air cleaners can help remove polluting particles, but generally cannot remove gaseous materials.

The information above was obtained from "The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air

Quality," a booklet produced by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. (EPA Document #402-K-93-007, April 1995). To view online, google "Indoor Air Quality" , then click on "The Inside Story".

The booklet provides information about source-specific controls for the following pollutants: Radon; Environmental Tobacco Smoke; Biological Contaminants (Carbon Monoxide, Nitrogen Dioxide, Organic Gases, and Respirable Particles); Stoves, Heaters, Fireplaces, and Chimneys; Household Products; Formaldehyde; Pesticides; Asbestos; and Lead. Indoor Air Quality in new homes and offices is also discussed.

Garden Club Presidents: Study the sources of the above pollutants, share the information, and encourage your garden club members to work toward better indoor air quality in their homes. We can improve our environment by reducing or eliminating existing pollutants and preventing new problems from occurring!

Carol Carter

NCA Environmental Concerns Chairman;
National Garden Clubs Air Quality Chairman