A new study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters on July 12th has linked 2 millions yearly worldwide deaths with air pollution.
Via LiveScience.com:
Air pollution may be responsible for more than 2 million deaths around the world each year, according to a new study.
The study estimated that 2.1 million deaths each year are linked with fine particulate matter, tiny particles that can get deep into the lungs and cause health problems.
Exposure to particle pollution has been linked with early death from heart and lung diseases, including lung cancer, the researchers said; meanwhile, concentrations of particulate matter have been increasing due to human activities. The study also found that 470,000 deaths yearly are linked with human sources of ozone, which forms when pollutants from sources such as cars or factories come together and react. Exposure to ozone has been linked to death from respiratory diseases…read more
According to the EPA, Americans spend up to 90 percent of their time indoors. There are many things in the home that contribute to indoor air pollution. Here are some ways to minimize air pollution in the home.
Minimize your use of synthetic air fresheners and sprays in the home. With 1 cup warm water, mix together 1/2 cup witch hazel or vodka and add 10 drops of tea tree oil (or cedar, myrrh, frankincense) and 10 drops of your favorite essential oil for fragrance. Add to a spray bottle and use as a natural air freshener. One should also be mindful on using synthetic cleansers in the home as well.
And do not allow anyone to smoke in your home. Cigarettes release more than 4,000 chemicals in tiny particles when burned. They get into your body, the air, clothing, carpets, plastic appliances etc.
“Dust mites are tiny bugs that are too small to see. Every home has dust mites. They feed on human skin flakes and are found in mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys and fabric and fabric-covered items.”1
Some easy ways to reduce dust mites:
- Use a hepa filtered vacuum every week. Vacuum home, carpet, and furniture every week.
- Use dust mite covers on bedding, mattress, pillows, etc.
- Wash and dry bedding once a week.
- Change central air, air conditioner, etc filters regularly.
The top 10 air cleansing plants: Areca palm, Reed palm, Dwarf date palm, Boston fern, Pothos, English ivy, Australian sword fern, Peace lily, Rubber plant, and Weeping fig.
When not in use, make sure appliances are turned off or unplugged as well as lights. Minimizing energy use and reducing any pollutants that are given off help keep the air cleaner.
1. EPA
2. Organic Gardening
