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Learn about recording artist and producer Eli Schwebel's musical journey and how IQAir transformed his health and art.

","content","Recording artist and producer Eli Schwebel views each note he sings as a profound message. “It's not just about hitting the right notes,” he said. “It's about touching hearts, and for that, every element, including the air I breathe, must be in harmony.” Renowned for spearheading the renaissance of Jewish Acappella music, Eli’s work resonates with the depth of a rich musical legacy. However, his greatest challenge would not be mastering music but navigating the air quality essential for optimal performance—and improving his quality of life. Confronting allergies: Early health challenges Influenced by his grandfather, a cantor, and his father, a Jewish music luminary, Eli’s early years of crafting melodies with friends evolved into a global career that would eventually see him perform at venues like Jazz at Lincoln Center and collaborate with artists such as Matisyahu and Yaakov Shwekey. From a young age, however, Eli struggled with allergies, which posed significant challenges to his ability to perform and record music. \"I always had terrible allergies,” Eli said. “They would sometimes cause breathing issues in my studio or on stage. I take my music very seriously, and it’s crucial that my breathing is always as clear as possible.” Facing the pandemic: Eli’s critical heath crisis Eli contracted COVID-19 in early 2020, leading to a critical hospitalisation with severe lung complications. “The doctors told me, 'You have the lungs of a drown victim,’” he recalled. “I remember thinking it was all over, facing this grave reality where even the doctors were uncertain about how to help me. It was an eye-opening experience that shifted my understanding of health and life.\" Air quality awareness Following his ordeal in the hospital, Eli realized that the quality of the air around him was closely linked to his capability to perform and express himself musically. “To sing and to work effectively with my musicians, to have clear lungs and a clear mind, I need my environment to be perfect. I realised that clean air is the key to making the studio environment optimal.” he said. Clean air is the key to making the studio environment optimal. Revitalizing Health and Music with IQAir Increasingly concerned about the air quality in his studio, a place where every breath matters, Eli set out on a quest for the best air purification system, a journey that led him to IQAir’s top rated air purifiers. He eventually found IQAir's GC MultiGas air purifier, a system recognised for its powerful filtration capabilities, able to filter both particle and gas pollutants. “This was essential for me,” Eli said. “The air quality challenges present in my studio are unique, not to mention my location in Brooklyn, and the constant traffic pollution coming from outside. The MultiGas was the perfect solution.” Upon installing the GC MultiGas, Eli almost immediately experienced a significant improvement in his breathing comfort and sleep quality. This enhancement in air quality extended beyond just physical benefits; it had a profound effect on his mental well-being and creative process. Eli found himself immersed in longer studio sessions, embracing newfound freedom in his vocal experimentation. “I suddenly was able to access a remarkable clarity in my voice,” Eli recalled. “The cleaner air gave me a vocal range I hadn’t experienced in years. And it was as though my allergies no longer existed.” The decision to choose IQAir's GC MultiGas marked the beginning of a new chapter. It wasn't just about finding a solution for his health; it was about rediscovering the joy and freedom in his music, unencumbered by limitations he had previously faced. “Now, whenever I'm in my workspace, I make sure the MultiGas is running. It’s become an integral part of my creative process.” Looking Ahead Eli's future is bright and busy, with a new album on the horizon and music videos in production. “My upcoming album is more than a collection of songs; it's a testament to the journey I've been on.” Eli also aims to use his platform to enlighten his community about the crucial role of air quality, especially for those living with respiratory sensitivities. Conclusion After moving through adversity, recording artist and producer Eli Schwebel found a deeper appreciation for every aspect of his music-making. “My health journey taught me that music is more than my voice – it's a dialogue with the world,” Eli muses. “I am very thankful for IQAir because I am free to not have to worry about issues that would have plagued me in the past. IQAir has helped give me the freedom to create.”","contentHtml","

Recording artist and producer Eli Schwebel views each note he sings as a profound message. “It's not just about hitting the right notes,” he said. “It's about touching hearts, and for that, every element, including the air I breathe, must be in harmony.”

Renowned for spearheading the renaissance of Jewish Acappella music, Eli’s work resonates with the depth of a rich musical legacy. However, his greatest challenge would not be mastering music but navigating the air quality essential for optimal performance—and improving his quality of life.

Confronting allergies: Early health challenges

Influenced by his grandfather, a cantor, and his father, a Jewish music luminary, Eli’s early years of crafting melodies with friends evolved into a global career that would eventually see him perform at venues like Jazz at Lincoln Center and collaborate with artists such as Matisyahu and Yaakov Shwekey.

From a young age, however, Eli struggled with allergies, which posed significant challenges to his ability to perform and record music.

\"I always had terrible allergies,” Eli said. “They would sometimes cause breathing issues in my studio or on stage. I take my music very seriously, and it’s crucial that my breathing is always as clear as possible.”

Facing the pandemic: Eli’s critical heath crisis

Eli contracted COVID-19 in early 2020, leading to a critical hospitalisation with severe lung complications. “The doctors told me, 'You have the lungs of a drown victim,’” he recalled. “I remember thinking it was all over, facing this grave reality where even the doctors were uncertain about how to help me. It was an eye-opening experience that shifted my understanding of health and life.\"

Air quality awareness

Following his ordeal in the hospital, Eli realized that the quality of the air around him was closely linked to his capability to perform and express himself musically. “To sing and to work effectively with my musicians, to have clear lungs and a clear mind, I need my environment to be perfect. I realised that clean air is the key to making the studio environment optimal.” he said.

Clean air is the key to making the studio environment optimal.

Revitalizing Health and Music with IQAir

Increasingly concerned about the air quality in his studio, a place where every breath matters, Eli set out on a quest for the best air purification system, a journey that led him to IQAir’s top rated air purifiers.

He eventually found IQAir's GC MultiGas air purifier, a system recognised for its powerful filtration capabilities, able to filter both particle and gas pollutants. “This was essential for me,” Eli said. “The air quality challenges present in my studio are unique, not to mention my location in Brooklyn, and the constant traffic pollution coming from outside. The MultiGas was the perfect solution.”

Upon installing the GC MultiGas, Eli almost immediately experienced a significant improvement in his breathing comfort and sleep quality. This enhancement in air quality extended beyond just physical benefits; it had a profound effect on his mental well-being and creative process.

Eli found himself immersed in longer studio sessions, embracing newfound freedom in his vocal experimentation. “I suddenly was able to access a remarkable clarity in my voice,” Eli recalled. “The cleaner air gave me a vocal range I hadn’t experienced in years. And it was as though my allergies no longer existed.”

The decision to choose IQAir's GC MultiGas marked the beginning of a new chapter. It wasn't just about finding a solution for his health; it was about rediscovering the joy and freedom in his music, unencumbered by limitations he had previously faced.

“Now, whenever I'm in my workspace, I make sure the MultiGas is running. It’s become an integral part of my creative process.”

Looking Ahead

Eli's future is bright and busy, with a new album on the horizon and music videos in production. “My upcoming album is more than a collection of songs; it's a testament to the journey I've been on.”

Eli also aims to use his platform to enlighten his community about the crucial role of air quality, especially for those living with respiratory sensitivities.

Conclusion

After moving through adversity, recording artist and producer Eli Schwebel found a deeper appreciation for every aspect of his music-making.

“My health journey taught me that music is more than my voice – it's a dialogue with the world,” Eli muses. “I am very thankful for IQAir because I am free to not have to worry about issues that would have plagued me in the past. IQAir has helped give me the freedom to create.”

","eli-schwebel-success-story","gid://shopify/Article/633667453006","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/eli-schwebel-success-story","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2021-03-27T23:00:00Z",[897],"Eli Schwebel: Harmonizing Health and Music","image",{"_10":1173,"_202":1174,"_205":1175,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269749321806","Eli Schwebel singing music","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Schwebel_DESK_865e7976-3df8-4f59-819b-1fdc18876ed9.jpg?v=1753878693",2880,1500,{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1179,"_1139":1180,"_1154":1181,"_1156":1181,"_1158":1182,"_1160":1183,"_1008":1184,"_10":1185,"_1164":1186,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1187,"_635":1188,"_599":1189,"_1171":1190},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Care Resource boosts safety measures using IQAir's state-of-the-art air purifiers during the COVID-19 pandemic.","The importance of air quality has always been a central concern for health centers globally, ensuring that patients and staff are exposed to the cleanest and safest environments possible. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges to the forefront, amplifying the significance of this concern.One such institution, Care Resource, a community health center in Miami, took proactive measures to protect their patients, visitors, and staff from airborne bacteria, viruses, mold spores and fungal spores. Care Resource, known for their commitment to community health, launched an exhaustive search for an air purification solution that met their stringent health and safety requirements, a search that ended when they found IQAir, global leader in air purification technology. Learn about Clean Air Facilities Learn how to provide the safest, cleanest air possible in your facility. DOWNLOAD NOW ×Close Email No Thanks Prioritizing Air Quality in Health Care SettingsJonathan Welsh, Associate Director of Development and Communications at Care Resource, is tasked with the day-to-day management and operation of the center. He is known for his dedication to maintaining high health standards and his proactive response to health-related challenges. His role has been pivotal, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, as he has guided his team towards prioritizing safety above all.Welsh said, \"Control of airborne microorganisms is of major importance in medical settings.\" This highlighted the pressing need for an air purifier that could effectively capture both large contaminants and minute virus-sized particles alike, so as to protect patients and staff from harmful pollutants of all stripes. Welsh led the search for a solution that met the center’s stringent criteria.It was during this pursuit that they discovered IQAir's top-rated air purifiers, and in collaboration with IQAir’s experts, Welsh and his Care Resource team found that IQAir’s HealthPro Plus air purifiers could handle the job at hand, providing medical-grade air to the facility.This groundbreaking solution didn't just meet their criteria, it exceeded them. The HealthPro Plus air purifiers feature state-of-the-art HyperHEPA filtration technology, which is capable of filtering 99.5% particles down to 0.003 microns. This means the facility’s air is virtually free from all types of harmful particles, from dust, to pollen, to bacteria and viruses, including Covid-19.With these powerful air purifiers as safeguards, Welsh was able to ensure a healthier environment for patients, staff, and visitors at Care Resource amidst the pandemic.“Not only was the staff more comfortable knowing they were protected from airborne threats, like Covid,” Welsh recalls. “There were numerous occasions when they would remark on how much better they felt overall.” These testimonials are not surprising, as clean air has been shown not only to protect from pathogens, but also to increase mood, cognitive function, and boost productivity in a workplace (1) (2). Become Clean Air Certified Optimize your facility with our proven clean air solutions LEARN HOW “When patients or staff ask about my thoughts on our powerful air purifiers, I always answer in the same way,” Welsh said. “IQAir is the best you will find and worth every penny.”The takeawayIQAir's advanced air purification technology not only creates a healthier and more pleasant environment for patients, staff, and visitors, but also serves as a critical preventative measure for infection control. Its economic efficiency further underscores IQAir as the superior choice in air purification solutions for health centers like Care Resource.","

The importance of air quality has always been a central concern for health centers globally, ensuring that patients and staff are exposed to the cleanest and safest environments possible. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges to the forefront, amplifying the significance of this concern.

One such institution, Care Resource, a community health center in Miami, took proactive measures to protect their patients, visitors, and staff from airborne bacteria, viruses, mold spores and fungal spores. Care Resource, known for their commitment to community health, launched an exhaustive search for an air purification solution that met their stringent health and safety requirements, a search that ended when they found IQAir, global leader in air purification technology.

\n\n

Learn about Clean Air Facilities
\n\nLearn how to provide the safest, cleanest air possible in your facility.

\n\n\n

\n DOWNLOAD NOW\n

\n \n

\n\n

Prioritizing Air Quality in Health Care Settings

Jonathan Welsh, Associate Director of Development and Communications at Care Resource, is tasked with the day-to-day management and operation of the center. He is known for his dedication to maintaining high health standards and his proactive response to health-related challenges. His role has been pivotal, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, as he has guided his team towards prioritizing safety above all.

Welsh said, \"Control of airborne microorganisms is of major importance in medical settings.\" This highlighted the pressing need for an air purifier that could effectively capture both large contaminants and minute virus-sized particles alike, so as to protect patients and staff from harmful pollutants of all stripes. Welsh led the search for a solution that met the center’s stringent criteria.

It was during this pursuit that they discovered IQAir's top-rated air purifiers, and in collaboration with IQAir’s experts, Welsh and his Care Resource team found that IQAir’s HealthPro Plus air purifiers could handle the job at hand, providing medical-grade air to the facility.

This groundbreaking solution didn't just meet their criteria, it exceeded them. The HealthPro Plus air purifiers feature state-of-the-art HyperHEPA filtration technology, which is capable of filtering 99.5% particles down to 0.003 microns. This means the facility’s air is virtually free from all types of harmful particles, from dust, to pollen, to bacteria and viruses, including Covid-19.

With these powerful air purifiers as safeguards, Welsh was able to ensure a healthier environment for patients, staff, and visitors at Care Resource amidst the pandemic.

“Not only was the staff more comfortable knowing they were protected from airborne threats, like Covid,” Welsh recalls. “There were numerous occasions when they would remark on how much better they felt overall.” These testimonials are not surprising, as clean air has been shown not only to protect from pathogens, but also to increase mood, cognitive function, and boost productivity in a workplace (1) (2).

\n\n

Become Clean Air Certified
\n\nOptimize your facility with our proven clean air solutions

\n\n\n

\n LEARN HOW\n

\n\n

“When patients or staff ask about my thoughts on our powerful air purifiers, I always answer in the same way,” Welsh said. “IQAir is the best you will find and worth every penny.”

The takeaway

IQAir's advanced air purification technology not only creates a healthier and more pleasant environment for patients, staff, and visitors, but also serves as a critical preventative measure for infection control. Its economic efficiency further underscores IQAir as the superior choice in air purification solutions for health centers like Care Resource.

","care-resource-air-purification-community-health","gid://shopify/Article/564855996494","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/care-resource-air-purification-community-health","2021-03-22T15:00:20Z",[897],"Care Resource Chooses IQAir",{"_10":1191,"_202":1192,"_205":1193,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272282189902","Doctor tending to child in waiting room","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/CareResource-1440-1_f31e2177-6990-499a-a934-9315234e5cd1.jpg?v=1773428860",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1195,"_1139":1196,"_1154":1197,"_1156":1197,"_1158":1198,"_1160":1199,"_1008":1200,"_10":1201,"_1164":1202,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1203,"_635":1204,"_599":1205,"_1171":1206},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Learn how this Southern California health center uses IQAir to help protect its facilities.","As a federally qualified Health Center, Neighborhood Healthcare in Southern California provides a wide range of medical, dental and behavioral health services for families all over the region. Through its 21 locations, Neighborhood Healthcare provides quality care and essential services to members of the community regardless of their situation or circumstance.When the pandemic caused by COVID-19 (a serious disease, often fatal, that is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus) made its way to the United States early in 2020, Neighborhood Healthcare, like so many healthcare institutions, was faced with devising a strategy to help keep patients and staff safe as well as maintain continuity of care.Their strategy began with infection control.\"Being in the community healthcare industry, Neighborhood Healthcare was tracking all forms of prevention for infection control. We knew we had to do something for the safety of our staff, patients or any other occupants of our buildings,\" said Theodore Hanson, Facilities, Projects and Equipment Supervisor at Neighborhood Healthcare.Neighborhood Healthcare began instituting rigorous cleaning protocols, but when early information about the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus showed that it was airborne, the team immediately took action and began to research air quality solutions to help mitigate the spread of the virus. That's when Theodore found IQAir.\"Through lots of research and discovering what air purifiers were used for control of the SARS virus in the early 2000s, I found that IQAir continually popped up in online searches and articles. This led to me doing further research on the product line. After comparing numerous devices on the market, the IQAir HealthPro Plus was the device I felt had the best fit for Neighborhood Healthcare,” shared Mr. Hanson.There were a few factors that influenced Mr. Hanson in making the decision to procure IQAir's HealthPro Plus air purifiers for Neighborhood Healthcare. Those factors included levels of filtration and the cost of replacement filters.\"There were less expensive air purifiers available but none of them had the levels of filtration that I found with the IQAir product. Anything that was less expensive upfront did not have certification of its airflow and the replacement filter cost actually would make the unit more expensive over the span of five years of operation. Given that the warranty on this device is 10 years, we needed to ensure our ongoing cost of operation was fiscally responsible. Finally, the unit not only offered the three major types of filtration I was looking for, but it also offered the coverage of cubic feet that made sense for my application,\" said Hanson.Once the purchase was made, Neighborhood Healthcare deployed HealthPro Plus air purifiers in one of its private dental operatories to help create negative pressure in the operatory and reduce the staff exposure to aerosols generated during dental procedures. Securing HealthPro Plus air purifiers allowed the dental departments at Neighborhood Healthcare to return to work sooner and feel more comfortable.HealthPro Plus air purifiers were also deployed throughout the medical clinics in common areas as well as in almost every office with multiple occupants.With the addition of HealthPro Plus air purifiers, Neighborhood Healthcare was able to focus on providing the quality healthcare that communities have come to depend on throughout the over 50-year history of this storied organization.When asked if he had any advice for similar organizations considering air purification systems, Hanson responded, \"Do your research and compare the IQAir products to other products on the market, but remember to look at the quality of device itself, the replacement filter costs and the life of the filters. I am confident that if you do that, you will come to the same conclusion that I did. IQAir is truly a great value and in the current environment we are in, this will be an invaluable tool for you in mitigating health concerns from poor air quality.\"","

As a federally qualified Health Center, Neighborhood Healthcare in Southern California provides a wide range of medical, dental and behavioral health services for families all over the region. Through its 21 locations, Neighborhood Healthcare provides quality care and essential services to members of the community regardless of their situation or circumstance.

When the pandemic caused by COVID-19 (a serious disease, often fatal, that is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus) made its way to the United States early in 2020, Neighborhood Healthcare, like so many healthcare institutions, was faced with devising a strategy to help keep patients and staff safe as well as maintain continuity of care.

Their strategy began with infection control.

\"Being in the community healthcare industry, Neighborhood Healthcare was tracking all forms of prevention for infection control. We knew we had to do something for the safety of our staff, patients or any other occupants of our buildings,\" said Theodore Hanson, Facilities, Projects and Equipment Supervisor at Neighborhood Healthcare.

Neighborhood Healthcare began instituting rigorous cleaning protocols, but when early information about the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus showed that it was airborne, the team immediately took action and began to research air quality solutions to help mitigate the spread of the virus. That's when Theodore found IQAir.

\"Through lots of research and discovering what air purifiers were used for control of the SARS virus in the early 2000s, I found that IQAir continually popped up in online searches and articles. This led to me doing further research on the product line. After comparing numerous devices on the market, the IQAir HealthPro Plus was the device I felt had the best fit for Neighborhood Healthcare,” shared Mr. Hanson.

There were a few factors that influenced Mr. Hanson in making the decision to procure IQAir's HealthPro Plus air purifiers for Neighborhood Healthcare. Those factors included levels of filtration and the cost of replacement filters.

$\"Airflow$

\"There were less expensive air purifiers available but none of them had the levels of filtration that I found with the IQAir product. Anything that was less expensive upfront did not have certification of its airflow and the replacement filter cost actually would make the unit more expensive over the span of five years of operation. Given that the warranty on this device is 10 years, we needed to ensure our ongoing cost of operation was fiscally responsible. Finally, the unit not only offered the three major types of filtration I was looking for, but it also offered the coverage of cubic feet that made sense for my application,\" said Hanson.

Once the purchase was made, Neighborhood Healthcare deployed HealthPro Plus air purifiers in one of its private dental operatories to help create negative pressure in the operatory and reduce the staff exposure to aerosols generated during dental procedures. Securing HealthPro Plus air purifiers allowed the dental departments at Neighborhood Healthcare to return to work sooner and feel more comfortable.

HealthPro Plus air purifiers were also deployed throughout the medical clinics in common areas as well as in almost every office with multiple occupants.

With the addition of HealthPro Plus air purifiers, Neighborhood Healthcare was able to focus on providing the quality healthcare that communities have come to depend on throughout the over 50-year history of this storied organization.

When asked if he had any advice for similar organizations considering air purification systems, Hanson responded, \"Do your research and compare the IQAir products to other products on the market, but remember to look at the quality of device itself, the replacement filter costs and the life of the filters. I am confident that if you do that, you will come to the same conclusion that I did. IQAir is truly a great value and in the current environment we are in, this will be an invaluable tool for you in mitigating health concerns from poor air quality.\"

","neighborhood-healthcare-chooses-clean-air","gid://shopify/Article/564854521934","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/neighborhood-healthcare-chooses-clean-air","2021-01-21T16:00:00Z",[897],"Neighborhood Healthcare uses clean air infection control",{"_10":1207,"_202":1208,"_205":1209,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269490782286","Doctor checking elderly woman's pulse","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/NeighborhoodHealthcare_Desktop_A_75c721d1-dfaa-4613-8c58-cd5e486e4b00.jpg?v=1751632128",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1211,"_1139":1212,"_1154":43,"_1156":43,"_1158":1213,"_1160":1214,"_1008":1215,"_10":1216,"_1164":1217,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1218,"_635":1219,"_599":1220,"_1171":1221},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"In a scientific and research laboratory, environmental control is crucial to maintaining testing integrity and ensuring staff comfort and safety. This is the case for Vantari Genetics, based in Irvine, California – and for that, their lab required a clean air solution. Vantari is an advanced clinical laboratory specializing in helping individuals and physicians anticipate drug interactions while analyzing the risk of inherited diseases and cancer. While cheek swabs are sufficient for some forms of testing, urinalysis is also a valuable tool employed by Vantari researchers and technicians in evaluating drug metabolism and other issues. At Vantari’s Irvine facility, pungent urine odors originating in the urinalysis work areas were invading the company’s offices and work areas. Looking for a solution The company contacted IQAir to help design and implement a source-control solution that would vent the urine odors outside the building. A team of IQAir commercial solutions field specialists conducted a site assessment to determine potential solutions. The IQAir team worked with Vantari executive management and the company’s facilities manager to design a custom solution. Shifting from ventilation to air filtration The initial plan was to fabricate an acrylic hood that would be placed above the urinalysis workstations and would vent odors directly outside. However, city officials would not permit the laboratory to ventilate the captured air to the outdoors. This prompted Vantari and the IQAir team to focus on air filtration instead of ventilation. The GCX AM is a commercial-grade air purifier with gas and odor filtration, specifically configured for control of ammonia and ammonia-based odors associated with urine. The IQAir team identified the IQAir GCX AM as an appropriate air-filtration technology for the urinalysis work areas. The GCX AM is a commercial-grade air purifier with gas and odor filtration, specifically configured for control of ammonia and ammonia-based odors associated with urine. The gas and odor cartridges in each GCX AM contain 22 pounds of granular-impregnated activated carbon made from bituminous coal. In addition, the GCX features particle filtration with an H11 IQAir HyperHEPA pre-filter that removes a minimum of 99 percent of all particles in the air that passes through the system, and 95 percent of all ultrafine particles down to 0.003 microns in diameter. The GCX also features IQAir’s New Edition fan, capable of extracting up to 370 cubic feet per minute from each work area and drawing the air up into the 7-foot-long customized acrylic hood. The air then passes through IQAir FlexVac tubing and into the four GCX AM filtration systems. To control odors in the other areas throughout the Vantari facility, an additional 10 IQAir GC AM systems have been strategically placed in offices and open areas. To control odors in the other areas throughout the Vantari facility, an additional 10 IQAir GC AM systems have been strategically placed in offices and open areas. These systems, slightly smaller than the GCX systems, remove any lingering odors not captured by the hood and air-filtration system in the urinalysis work area. Odors are now under control As a result, the IQAir systems have removed any significant urine odors from the environment. The GCX AM systems pull air up from the urinalysis workstations, and the powerful activated carbon filter cartridges have reduced urine odors to the level at which they are undetectable. “The IQAir systems have worked wonders,” a member of the executive team said. “Now, most people can’t even tell we are in the urine toxicology business because of the lack of smell.” The takeaway Air quality solution experts at IQAir collaborate with businesses to provide practical, environmental control solutions that help create workplaces that are safe, healthy, and enjoyable.","

In a scientific and research laboratory, environmental control is crucial to maintaining testing integrity and ensuring staff comfort and safety. This is the case for Vantari Genetics, based in Irvine, California – and for that, their lab required a clean air solution.

Vantari is an advanced clinical laboratory specializing in helping individuals and physicians anticipate drug interactions while analyzing the risk of inherited diseases and cancer. While cheek swabs are sufficient for some forms of testing, urinalysis is also a valuable tool employed by Vantari researchers and technicians in evaluating drug metabolism and other issues.

At Vantari’s Irvine facility, pungent urine odors originating in the urinalysis work areas were invading the company’s offices and work areas.

Looking for a solution

The company contacted IQAir to help design and implement a source-control solution that would vent the urine odors outside the building. A team of IQAir commercial solutions field specialists conducted a site assessment to determine potential solutions. The IQAir team worked with Vantari executive management and the company’s facilities manager to design a custom solution.

Shifting from ventilation to air filtration

The initial plan was to fabricate an acrylic hood that would be placed above the urinalysis workstations and would vent odors directly outside. However, city officials would not permit the laboratory to ventilate the captured air to the outdoors. This prompted Vantari and the IQAir team to focus on air filtration instead of ventilation.

The GCX AM is a commercial-grade air purifier with gas and odor filtration, specifically configured for control of ammonia and ammonia-based odors associated with urine.

The IQAir team identified the IQAir GCX AM as an appropriate air-filtration technology for the urinalysis work areas. The GCX AM is a commercial-grade air purifier with gas and odor filtration, specifically configured for control of ammonia and ammonia-based odors associated with urine.

The gas and odor cartridges in each GCX AM contain 22 pounds of granular-impregnated activated carbon made from bituminous coal. In addition, the GCX features particle filtration with an H11 IQAir HyperHEPA pre-filter that removes a minimum of 99 percent of all particles in the air that passes through the system, and 95 percent of all ultrafine particles down to 0.003 microns in diameter.

The GCX also features IQAir’s New Edition fan, capable of extracting up to 370 cubic feet per minute from each work area and drawing the air up into the 7-foot-long customized acrylic hood. The air then passes through IQAir FlexVac tubing and into the four GCX AM filtration systems.

To control odors in the other areas throughout the Vantari facility, an additional 10 IQAir GC AM systems have been strategically placed in offices and open areas.

To control odors in the other areas throughout the Vantari facility, an additional 10 IQAir GC AM systems have been strategically placed in offices and open areas. These systems, slightly smaller than the GCX systems, remove any lingering odors not captured by the hood and air-filtration system in the urinalysis work area.

Odors are now under control

As a result, the IQAir systems have removed any significant urine odors from the environment. The GCX AM systems pull air up from the urinalysis workstations, and the powerful activated carbon filter cartridges have reduced urine odors to the level at which they are undetectable.

“The IQAir systems have worked wonders,” a member of the executive team said. “Now, most people can’t even tell we are in the urine toxicology business because of the lack of smell.”

The takeaway

Air quality solution experts at IQAir collaborate with businesses to provide practical, environmental control solutions that help create workplaces that are safe, healthy, and enjoyable.

","vantari-genetics","gid://shopify/Article/564874215502","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/vantari-genetics","2020-04-06T17:16:55Z",[912,897],"Case Study: Vantari Genetics",{"_10":1222,"_202":1223,"_205":1224,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269544882254","Vantari Genetics","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Vantari_040623_7adc9f7b-0f7d-42f4-9cc9-495721406f3a.jpg?v=1752138662",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1226,"_1139":1227,"_1154":1228,"_1156":1228,"_1158":1229,"_1160":1230,"_1008":1231,"_10":1232,"_1164":1233,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1234,"_635":1235,"_599":1236,"_1171":1237},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Luxury yoga brand Pure Yoga partnered with IQAir to create a clean yoga space. See how they use IQAir technology in their beautiful space.","Some people like to train and meditate in the early morning, enjoying a moment of peace before the whole city wakes up. But others like a refreshing yoga session after work, releasing the stress of the day. Yoga has become a popular fitness bodybuilding exercise to not only relax but also boost energy and bring vitality into your life and work. But cities face severe air pollution, which can cause a huge burden on our hearts and lungs during exercise. How can we protect ourselves during exercise? Luxury yoga brand Pure Yoga partnered with IQAir to create a clean yoga space for students to accomplish exactly that – giving those who want to be fit and healthy a place to breathe clean air and relax. Good air makes exercise more efficient Smooth, strong breathing is an essential, basic part of yoga. But the air in many gyms can be the source of respiratory health concerns that contradict the purpose of yoga to “cleanse” your body inside and out. Plenty of research has found that gyms frequently experience poor air quality and exceed WHO guidelines for healthy air quality.1,2,3 And this is problematic for a few reasons. When it comes to exercise, air pollution and lung function are tightly connected. During exercise, people tend to inhale more oxygen and breathe it more deeply into the lungs. As a result, pollutants more quickly build up and block the airways as well as the blood vessels. This reduction in oxygen intake is more likely to make people feel fatigued and depressed during exercise, which can greatly diminish the benefits of exercise. But with the presence of good air for better oxygen intake and blood flow, yoga can be even more beneficial even when done for the same amount of time as in a polluted gym. Choosing Pure Yoga, Asia's leading yoga lifestyle brand Pure Yoga belongs to Pure Group, Asia's leading lifestyle brand. Pure Yoga offers courses in up to 30 different yoga styles and features internationally qualified professional teachers. Every Pure Yoga club is required to maintain open space and provide comfortable dressing rooms and lounge areas. And Pure Yoga has more than just yoga. They also offer: Nood Food bar's offering selection of natural healthy snacks and fruit juices Pure Apparel's designer yoga activewear designed for comfort and function. Together, these three brands create a 360-degree lifestyle opportunity. Different lifestyle areas in the store Pure Yoga began with a strict plan for their indoor air quality right away when they began designing their facilities. But the more they pursued quality in their indoor air, the more they realized just how invisible air quality problems can be. For example, the air must not only be free from pollutants but also oxygenated enough to support the increased respiration that happens during exercise, and both temperature and humidity must be adjusted to make sure those exercising maintain comfort from head to toe. Air purification system in the classroom IQAir entered Hong Kong's Pure Yoga during this design process in 2003 and was added to the Shanghai facility at the end of 2016. Two Pure Yoga facilities in Beijing and two additional facilities in New York City carried on the brand’s dedication to clean air starting in 2019. The Beijing facilities went the extra mile to ensure good indoor air quality: they not only selected IQAir whole-house purification for their facility but also added an air quality monitoring solution to display real-time indoor and outdoor air quality. This investment to makes a powerful clean air commitment statement to gym users. Whole-house purification solution makes Pure Yoga purer IQAir’s whole house purification system covers at least four yoga rooms across 2000 square meters without concern for awkward facility angles, noise, or taking up valuable yoga room floor space. The system establishes a consistently positive air quality index and exercise experience for participants. IQAir also ensures that the overall indoor PM2.5 concentration is far below the maximum threshold of 10 µg/m3 specified by the World Health Organization (WHO) – in fact, IQAir systems can often deliver a PM2.5 concentration near or at 0 µg/m3.The IQAir purifier is integrated into the facility itself as part of the building's fresh air system, delivering purified air into the ventilation and exhaust system of each classroom. These two defenses of filtration address a wide range of air pollutants, including large particles from outside like catkins. Two additional IQAir Perfect 16 purification systems were also installed in each classroom. Placed side-by-side in air ducts, these purifiers are the gatekeepers of the air delivered to the room. These purifiers can effectively intercept common indoor pollutants such as PM2.5, dust, pollen, bacterial mold spores, allergens, and more. During facility construction After construction The Perfect 16 also removes the trouble of constant cleaning and filter replacement. While other facility purification systems need filter changes once every few months, the Perfect 16 can effectively last for a full year. Understand the air you breathe Each classroom is also equipped with AirVisual Series air quality monitors to help Pure Yoga detect indoor air quality data using the AQI index, PM2.5 concentrations, carbon dioxide levels, temperature, and humidity. The data from four AirVisual Series monitors are connected to the AirVisual app so that managers can easily view real-time air quality on mobile phones. If air quality fluctuates, managers can take immediate action to ensure a high-quality fitness environment for customers. The air quality monitor can also help managers plan ahead, thanks toair quality forecasting featured on the AirVisual Series. With IQAir, Pure Yoga’s strict attention to detail has given them the confidence and determination to stand out in the highly competitive fitness and yoga market, providing yoga students with outstanding health, quality, and fashion experiences.","

Some people like to train and meditate in the early morning, enjoying a moment of peace before the whole city wakes up.

But others like a refreshing yoga session after work, releasing the stress of the day.

Yoga has become a popular fitness bodybuilding exercise to not only relax but also boost energy and bring vitality into your life and work.

But cities face severe air pollution, which can cause a huge burden on our hearts and lungs during exercise. How can we protect ourselves during exercise?

Luxury yoga brand Pure Yoga partnered with IQAir to create a clean yoga space for students to accomplish exactly that – giving those who want to be fit and healthy a place to breathe clean air and relax.

Good air makes exercise more efficient

Smooth, strong breathing is an essential, basic part of yoga. But the air in many gyms can be the source of respiratory health concerns that contradict the purpose of yoga to “cleanse” your body inside and out.

Plenty of research has found that gyms frequently experience poor air quality and exceed WHO guidelines for healthy air quality.^1,2,3 And this is problematic for a few reasons.

When it comes to exercise, air pollution and lung function are tightly connected. During exercise, people tend to inhale more oxygen and breathe it more deeply into the lungs. As a result, pollutants more quickly build up and block the airways as well as the blood vessels.

This reduction in oxygen intake is more likely to make people feel fatigued and depressed during exercise, which can greatly diminish the benefits of exercise.

But with the presence of good air for better oxygen intake and blood flow, yoga can be even more beneficial even when done for the same amount of time as in a polluted gym.

Choosing Pure Yoga, Asia's leading yoga lifestyle brand

Pure Yoga belongs to Pure Group, Asia's leading lifestyle brand.

Pure Yoga offers courses in up to 30 different yoga styles and features internationally qualified professional teachers. Every Pure Yoga club is required to maintain open space and provide comfortable dressing rooms and lounge areas.

And Pure Yoga has more than just yoga. They also offer:

Nood Food bar's offering selection of natural healthy snacks and fruit juices
Pure Apparel's designer yoga activewear designed for comfort and function.

Together, these three brands create a 360-degree lifestyle opportunity.

$\"Yoga$

Different lifestyle areas in the store

Pure Yoga began with a strict plan for their indoor air quality right away when they began designing their facilities.

But the more they pursued quality in their indoor air, the more they realized just how invisible air quality problems can be.

For example, the air must not only be free from pollutants but also oxygenated enough to support the increased respiration that happens during exercise, and both temperature and humidity must be adjusted to make sure those exercising maintain comfort from head to toe.

$\"Air$

Air purification system in the classroom

IQAir entered Hong Kong's Pure Yoga during this design process in 2003 and was added to the Shanghai facility at the end of 2016. Two Pure Yoga facilities in Beijing and two additional facilities in New York City carried on the brand’s dedication to clean air starting in 2019.

The Beijing facilities went the extra mile to ensure good indoor air quality: they not only selected IQAir whole-house purification for their facility but also added an air quality monitoring solution to display real-time indoor and outdoor air quality. This investment to makes a powerful clean air commitment statement to gym users.

Whole-house purification solution makes Pure Yoga purer

IQAir’s whole house purification system covers at least four yoga rooms across 2000 square meters without concern for awkward facility angles, noise, or taking up valuable yoga room floor space. The system establishes a consistently positive air quality index and exercise experience for participants.

IQAir also ensures that the overall indoor PM2.5 concentration is far below the maximum threshold of 10 µg/m³ specified by the World Health Organization (WHO) – in fact, IQAir systems can often deliver a PM2.5 concentration near or at 0 µg/m³.
The IQAir purifier is integrated into the facility itself as part of the building's fresh air system, delivering purified air into the ventilation and exhaust system of each classroom.

These two defenses of filtration address a wide range of air pollutants, including large particles from outside like catkins.

Two additional IQAir Perfect 16 purification systems were also installed in each classroom.

Placed side-by-side in air ducts, these purifiers are the gatekeepers of the air delivered to the room. These purifiers can effectively intercept common indoor pollutants such as PM2.5, dust, pollen, bacterial mold spores, allergens, and more.

$\"During$
During facility construction

$\"after$

After construction

The Perfect 16 also removes the trouble of constant cleaning and filter replacement. While other facility purification systems need filter changes once every few months, the Perfect 16 can effectively last for a full year.

Understand the air you breathe

Each classroom is also equipped with AirVisual Series air quality monitors to help Pure Yoga detect indoor air quality data using the AQI index, PM2.5 concentrations, carbon dioxide levels, temperature, and humidity.

$\"data$

The data from four AirVisual Series monitors are connected to the AirVisual app so that managers can easily view real-time air quality on mobile phones.

If air quality fluctuates, managers can take immediate action to ensure a high-quality fitness environment for customers. The air quality monitor can also help managers plan ahead, thanks toair quality forecasting featured on the AirVisual Series.

With IQAir, Pure Yoga’s strict attention to detail has given them the confidence and determination to stand out in the highly competitive fitness and yoga market, providing yoga students with outstanding health, quality, and fashion experiences.

","iqair-partners-with-pure-yoga-beijing","gid://shopify/Article/564856815694","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/iqair-partners-with-pure-yoga-beijing","2019-12-17T20:29:21Z",[912,715,897],"Pure Yoga: Find peace in each breath",{"_10":1238,"_202":1239,"_205":1240,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269419741262","Yoga lesson","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Yoga_Desktop_A.jpg?v=1751015122",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1242,"_1139":1243,"_1154":1244,"_1156":1244,"_1158":1245,"_1160":1246,"_1008":1247,"_10":1248,"_1164":1249,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1250,"_635":1251,"_599":1252,"_1171":1253},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"IQAir partnered with Beijing University Cancer Hospital to create the future of hospital patient care. Learn more.","Beijing University Cancer Hospital has a special ward – a ward that's designed to evoke the warmth and comfort of home. Medical service providers are paying more attention to the experience of staying in or visiting medical facilities and towards “patient-centered” care.1 This shift in focus - putting the patient experience front and center in health care -allows doctors to take better care of those who count on their expertise. A patient-centered approach alsoensures that people receiving care feel comfortable and cared for. In 2019, Beijing University Cancer Hospital (also known as Peking University Cancer Hospital) wanted to design a patient-centric ward by providing ample space, comfort, and air cleaning technology. A patient-centered approach ensures that people receiving care feel comfortable and cared for. The Hospital and Glory Design worked with IQAir to create a hospital room that makes the person receiving care the most important part of the experience. IQAir contributed its technology tohelp make care a more humane experience for both doctors and people receiving care. A patient-centered room design Every detail in the design of the hospital patient-centered room is intended to help provide the highest care. Pictured: The ward's floorplan. Space for friends and family The family should also feel cared for as they spend a long time with their loved ones in a place that could sometimes feel cold and unwelcoming.2 The hospital designed resting areas and space for both the person receiving care and their family members, including sufficient space for a wheelchair. Pictured: The ward's wheelchair accessibility floorplan Protecting those most vulnerable from air pollution and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) People receiving care are vulnerable to both air pollution and healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Air pollution can make infections worse, and can also affect staff, families, and visitors.3,4,5 The IQAir GC MultiGas helps address both air pollution and HAIs. The IQAir GCMultiGas helps address both air pollution and HAIs. This high-performance air purifier removes chemical odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as well as 99.5% of airborne bacteria, allergens, and particulate matter, including dangerous PM2.5 and ultrafine particles. Ultrafine particles are so small that, when inhaled, they can enter the bloodstream and reach all of the body's organs. According to research on the health effects of ultrafine particles published in Experimental & Molecular Medicine, ultrafine particles have been linked to serious health concerns, including:6 diabetes cancer systemic inflammation coughing worsening asthma Particulate matter can also act as a carrier for airborne viruses.7 A 2020 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health conducted research in Northern Italy to determine whether particulate matter could act as a carrier of the COVID-19 virus as it does for other viruses and bacteria. The study concluded that there was a correlation between high and rapid increases of COVID-19 contagion and particulate matter measurements exceeding Italy's regulations. The GC MultiGas air purifier helps reduce air pollution that triggers infections and inflammation, helping prevent secondary infections that can occur in hospitals. Though they aren't intended to serve as a first line of defense against bacteria and viruses - a defense that includes good hygiene,social distancing, and wearing masks - air purifiers can play a role in helping reduce virus transmission. Pictured: An IQAir air purifier next to a hospital bed. IQAir also provided the room with anAirVisual Pro air quality monitor to make sure that families and doctors can monitor the room’s air quality with real-time indoor air quality data. AirVisual Pro is an award-winning air quality monitor capable of reading levels of particulate matter in the air, including fine particles that measure down to 0.3 microns in size. IQAir has a long history of delivering hospital air purification technology to medical facilities. During the SARS outbreak of 2003, IQAir was selected by the Hong Kong Hospital Authority to provide air filtration systems for hospitals across Hong Kong. In early 2020, IQAir also provided air purifiers for hospital radiology units and respiratory units in the Wuhan, China region to help mitigate the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhancing the in-patient and family experience In addition to providing high quality air purification, this room’s enhanced design ensures a safety-oriented and health-focused experience for people seeking medical assistance and their families. Design enhancements include: Mobile power supply for consistent access to electronics Antibacterial curtains for privacy and protection from airborne bacteria Red, touch-free inductive bathroom water faucets for easy visibility and preventionof bacteria transfer Protective outlet covers to prevent injury or shock High temperature restrictions on water outlets to prevent burns Pictured: A patient-centric room designed for comfort. IQAir and Beijing University Cancer Hospital provide a recovery room that feels like home The partnership between IQAir and Beijing University Cancer Hospital helps those receiving care and their families recover quickly and stay healthy by breathing the cleanest possible air. The partnership also ensures a productive working environment for top medical scholars, doctors, and staff. The partnership helps those receiving care and their families recover quickly and stay healthy by breathing the cleanest possible air. The partnership allows IQAir and its hospital partners to increase quality of services while also providing the comfort many people need to feel welcome and feel better.","

Beijing University Cancer Hospital has a special ward – a ward that's designed to evoke the warmth and comfort of home.

Medical service providers are paying more attention to the experience of staying in or visiting medical facilities and towards “patient-centered” care.¹

This shift in focus - putting the patient experience front and center in health care -allows doctors to take better care of those who count on their expertise. A patient-centered approach alsoensures that people receiving care feel comfortable and cared for.

In 2019, Beijing University Cancer Hospital (also known as Peking University Cancer Hospital) wanted to design a patient-centric ward by providing ample space, comfort, and air cleaning technology.

A patient-centered approach ensures that people receiving care feel comfortable and cared for.

The Hospital and Glory Design worked with IQAir to create a hospital room that makes the person receiving care the most important part of the experience.

IQAir contributed its technology tohelp make care a more humane experience for both doctors and people receiving care.

A patient-centered room design

Every detail in the design of the hospital patient-centered room is intended to help provide the highest care.

$\"Design$

Pictured: The ward's floorplan.

Space for friends and family

The family should also feel cared for as they spend a long time with their loved ones in a place that could sometimes feel cold and unwelcoming.²

The hospital designed resting areas and space for both the person receiving care and their family members, including sufficient space for a wheelchair.

$\"Space$

Pictured: The ward's wheelchair accessibility floorplan

Protecting those most vulnerable from air pollution and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs)

People receiving care are vulnerable to both air pollution and healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Air pollution can make infections worse, and can also affect staff, families, and visitors.^3,4,5

The IQAir GC MultiGas helps address both air pollution and HAIs.

The IQAir GCMultiGas helps address both air pollution and HAIs.

This high-performance air purifier removes chemical odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as well as 99.5% of airborne bacteria, allergens, and particulate matter, including dangerous PM2.5 and ultrafine particles.

Ultrafine particles are so small that, when inhaled, they can enter the bloodstream and reach all of the body's organs. According to research on the health effects of ultrafine particles published in Experimental & Molecular Medicine, ultrafine particles have been linked to serious health concerns, including:⁶

diabetes
cancer
systemic inflammation
coughing
worsening asthma

Particulate matter can also act as a carrier for airborne viruses.7 A 2020 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health conducted research in Northern Italy to determine whether particulate matter could act as a carrier of the COVID-19 virus as it does for other viruses and bacteria. The study concluded that there was a correlation between high and rapid increases of COVID-19 contagion and particulate matter measurements exceeding Italy's regulations.

The GC MultiGas air purifier helps reduce air pollution that triggers infections and inflammation, helping prevent secondary infections that can occur in hospitals.

Though they aren't intended to serve as a first line of defense against bacteria and viruses - a defense that includes good hygiene,social distancing, and wearing masks - air purifiers can play a role in helping reduce virus transmission.

$\"GC$

Pictured: An IQAir air purifier next to a hospital bed.

IQAir also provided the room with anAirVisual Pro air quality monitor to make sure that families and doctors can monitor the room’s air quality with real-time indoor air quality data.

AirVisual Pro is an award-winning air quality monitor capable of reading levels of particulate matter in the air, including fine particles that measure down to 0.3 microns in size.

IQAir has a long history of delivering hospital air purification technology to medical facilities. During the SARS outbreak of 2003, IQAir was selected by the Hong Kong Hospital Authority to provide air filtration systems for hospitals across Hong Kong.

In early 2020, IQAir also provided air purifiers for hospital radiology units and respiratory units in the Wuhan, China region to help mitigate the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.

Enhancing the in-patient and family experience

In addition to providing high quality air purification, this room’s enhanced design ensures a safety-oriented and health-focused experience for people seeking medical assistance and their families. Design enhancements include:

\nMobile power supply for consistent access to electronics
\nAntibacterial curtains for privacy and protection from airborne bacteria
\nRed, touch-free inductive bathroom water faucets for easy visibility and preventionof bacteria transfer
\nProtective outlet covers to prevent injury or shock
\nHigh temperature restrictions on water outlets to prevent burns

$\"Hospital$

Pictured: A patient-centric room designed for comfort.

IQAir and Beijing University Cancer Hospital provide a recovery room that feels like home

The partnership between IQAir and Beijing University Cancer Hospital helps those receiving care and their families recover quickly and stay healthy by breathing the cleanest possible air. The partnership also ensures a productive working environment for top medical scholars, doctors, and staff.

The partnership helps those receiving care and their families recover quickly and stay healthy by breathing the cleanest possible air.

The partnership allows IQAir and its hospital partners to increase quality of services while also providing the comfort many people need to feel welcome and feel better.

","iqair-partners-with-beijing-cancer-treatment-center","gid://shopify/Article/564857471054","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/iqair-partners-with-beijing-cancer-treatment-center","2019-12-15T18:22:50Z",[912,715,897],"The hospital of the future feels like home",{"_10":1254,"_202":1255,"_205":1256,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269489766478","Hospital bed","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/BeijingCancer_Desktop_a_de63fe6c-9ef1-456e-837d-901e0bcdb7e6.jpg?v=1751624779",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1258,"_1139":1259,"_1154":1260,"_1156":1260,"_1158":1261,"_1160":1262,"_1008":1263,"_10":1264,"_1164":1265,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1266,"_635":1267,"_599":1268,"_1171":1269},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"AirVisual air quality monitoring helps Efficiency Vermont customers achieve greater energy efficiency. Learn more.","Efficiency Vermont is a statewide, regulated energy efficiency utility transforming the way Vermonters use energy to better their lives. Whether through energy assessments, project support, or education, Efficiency Vermont helps its customers take advantage of opportunities to become more energy-efficient.Efficiency Vermont researches indoor air qualityWhen they decided to educate Vermonters on the importance of indoor air quality, Efficiency Vermont began with research.“When we set out to identify an indoor air quality monitor, we undertook a significant vetting process to make sure we’d end up with a product that gave us reliable data and was easy to use for the consumer. As a regulated utility, we think critically of how we use our limited funding to best serve our customers,” said Laura Capps, a program manager for Efficiency Vermont.The most important criteria to Efficiency Vermont for an air quality monitor was measurement of all key indoor air quality influences: PM2.5, CO2, relative humidity (RH), and temperature. Also important was selecting a monitor that could generate highly accurate data at frequent intervals. The IQAir AirVisual Pro air quality monitor met these criteria and was selected as one of several candidates.“It needed to be able to collect and store data offline and download data quickly once connected online,” said Capps. “And we wanted to be able to easily see the data from each monitor through an online dashboard. But we also wanted it to be easy to use for consumers. It’s hard to ask someone to put a device in their bedroom if it makes a lot of noise or they can’t turn off the display. We wanted a monitor that could run on batteries or be plugged in so that it was easy to move around a house and withstand a common power outage in rural Vermont.”AirVisual chosen for superior performanceAfter seeking input from experts, verifying the accuracy of AirVisual Pro particulate matter (PM) readings, and testing AirVisual Pro against other air quality monitors, Efficiency Vermont staff voted AirVisual Pro as the easiest to use and understand.The AirVisual Pro was initially used in a residential loan program in which customers could borrow the monitor at no cost and set it up in their home for a few weeks. Data gathered by the AirVisual Pro helped support customer decisions to make improvements in energy efficiency that also improved indoor air quality.This residential loan program was so successful that Efficiency Vermont continued to use the AirVisual Pro for a new program centered around indoor air quality in schools during the summer of 2020.Efficiency Vermont launches air quality monitoring program“This past summer, we launched the School Indoor Air Quality Grant Program, funded through the Coronavirus Relief Funds, to help schools improve indoor air quality through HVAC upgrades,” said Capps. “As part of that program, we provided every interested school with an AirVisual Pro monitor. The real-time data enabled schools to better understand where air quality was an issue in their buildings. These monitors will also empower schools with the ability to test the results of the work they’re doing to improve indoor air quality, now and into the future.”Efficiency Vermont deployed over 90 AirVisual Pro monitors and supported schools in deploying over 350 additional AirVisual Pro monitors. The utility continues to help schools continuously monitor air quality data from their AirVisual Pro monitors.The takeaway“Having a monitor enables you to identify actual indoor air quality conditions and make informed decisions,” said Capps. “We would continue to recommend the AirVisual monitor as an easy-to-use device for homes, schools, or businesses to quickly understand conditions and provide long-term, ongoing data.”Capps continued: “The customer support team at IQAir has been fantastic! We’ve been impressed with the overall quality of the devices and the quick, personalized support. IQAir went above and beyond in helping us ship monitors to schools with personalized letters and preset settings to make it all the easier for schools to get up and running with the monitors quickly.”","

Efficiency Vermont is a statewide, regulated energy efficiency utility transforming the way Vermonters use energy to better their lives. Whether through energy assessments, project support, or education, Efficiency Vermont helps its customers take advantage of opportunities to become more energy-efficient.

Efficiency Vermont researches indoor air quality

When they decided to educate Vermonters on the importance of indoor air quality, Efficiency Vermont began with research.

“When we set out to identify an indoor air quality monitor, we undertook a significant vetting process to make sure we’d end up with a product that gave us reliable data and was easy to use for the consumer. As a regulated utility, we think critically of how we use our limited funding to best serve our customers,” said Laura Capps, a program manager for Efficiency Vermont.

The most important criteria to Efficiency Vermont for an air quality monitor was measurement of all key indoor air quality influences: PM2.5, CO₂, relative humidity (RH), and temperature. Also important was selecting a monitor that could generate highly accurate data at frequent intervals. The IQAir AirVisual Pro air quality monitor met these criteria and was selected as one of several candidates.

“It needed to be able to collect and store data offline and download data quickly once connected online,” said Capps. “And we wanted to be able to easily see the data from each monitor through an online dashboard. But we also wanted it to be easy to use for consumers. It’s hard to ask someone to put a device in their bedroom if it makes a lot of noise or they can’t turn off the display. We wanted a monitor that could run on batteries or be plugged in so that it was easy to move around a house and withstand a common power outage in rural Vermont.”

AirVisual chosen for superior performance

After seeking input from experts, verifying the accuracy of AirVisual Pro particulate matter (PM) readings, and testing AirVisual Pro against other air quality monitors, Efficiency Vermont staff voted AirVisual Pro as the easiest to use and understand.

The AirVisual Pro was initially used in a residential loan program in which customers could borrow the monitor at no cost and set it up in their home for a few weeks. Data gathered by the AirVisual Pro helped support customer decisions to make improvements in energy efficiency that also improved indoor air quality.

This residential loan program was so successful that Efficiency Vermont continued to use the AirVisual Pro for a new program centered around indoor air quality in schools during the summer of 2020.

Efficiency Vermont launches air quality monitoring program

“This past summer, we launched the School Indoor Air Quality Grant Program, funded through the Coronavirus Relief Funds, to help schools improve indoor air quality through HVAC upgrades,” said Capps. “As part of that program, we provided every interested school with an AirVisual Pro monitor. The real-time data enabled schools to better understand where air quality was an issue in their buildings. These monitors will also empower schools with the ability to test the results of the work they’re doing to improve indoor air quality, now and into the future.”

Efficiency Vermont deployed over 90 AirVisual Pro monitors and supported schools in deploying over 350 additional AirVisual Pro monitors. The utility continues to help schools continuously monitor air quality data from their AirVisual Pro monitors.

The takeaway

“Having a monitor enables you to identify actual indoor air quality conditions and make informed decisions,” said Capps. “We would continue to recommend the AirVisual monitor as an easy-to-use device for homes, schools, or businesses to quickly understand conditions and provide long-term, ongoing data.”

Capps continued: “The customer support team at IQAir has been fantastic! We’ve been impressed with the overall quality of the devices and the quick, personalized support. IQAir went above and beyond in helping us ship monitors to schools with personalized letters and preset settings to make it all the easier for schools to get up and running with the monitors quickly.”

","efficiency-vermont-uses-airvisual-air-quality-monitoring","gid://shopify/Article/564856029262","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/efficiency-vermont-uses-airvisual-air-quality-monitoring","2019-02-04T17:13:34Z",[912,897],"Efficiency Vermont Chooses AirVisual",{"_10":1270,"_202":1271,"_205":1272,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269464731726","Solar panels","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/av_Desk_a2_dee1aa0f-8ba4-476b-946a-c3966fc8447f.jpg?v=1751451092",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1274,"_1139":1275,"_1154":1276,"_1156":1276,"_1158":1277,"_1160":1278,"_1008":1279,"_10":1280,"_1164":1281,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1282,"_635":1283,"_599":1286,"_1171":1287},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"China Resources Land (CR Land), is one of the most powerful integrated real estate developers in Mainland China. Now, CR Land takes that ethos a step further by bringing in IQAir to provide clean air for their employees.","The office has almost become a second home for many urban professionals.People in developed nations spend between 80 and 90 percent of their lives indoors. About one-third of that time is at work. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is often two to five times worse indoors than outdoors.With so much of our time spent inside workplaces that have potentially harmful air quality, it behooves employers to provide clean air in the workplace. Even those working in the concrete jungle deserve to work in a clean air oasis. Even more, studies show that workers are more productive when breathing clean air.What can make office building indoor air quality so bad?Environmental regulatory agencies1,2 agree that air pollutants aren’t restricted to the outdoors.Chemical pollutant sources in offices can include emissions from office equipment, furniture, wall and floor coverings, cleaning products, and combustion product gases.There are also potential biological contaminants, such as fungi and molds, dust mite allergens, bacteria, viruses, and pollen – all brought in by ventilated air, employees, and visitors.Particulate matter, such as dust or dirt, is brought in from the outdoors as well as generated by the use of common office equipment or during construction and remodeling. Offices and public spaces that permit smoking also invite chemical and particulate matter pollution.Sometimes, poor office building indoor air quality can be compounded by the very systems and policies designed to maintain employee comfort. HVAC systems can be a source of pollutants, while office plants can be responsible for the growth of fungi and molds if overwatered. It’s inadvisable to place plants in the airstream of heating, ventilation, and HVAC equipment, as this can help distribute mold and pollen throughout a room.3Fortune 500 company chooses IQAir for China officeChinese property developer China Resources Land Ltd, a fortune 500 company, heeded the call to create a clean air oasis for their workers in their Dalian branch, located in Liaoning Province, China.China Resources Land (CR Land), is one of the most powerful integrated real estate developers in Mainland China. Adhering to their corporate ethos of “better quality, better city,” CR Land advocates for sustainable urban development and business progress. CR Land took that ethos a step further by bringing in IQAir to provide clean air for their employees.IQAir helps CR Land create a healthy and comfortable office environment for employees and provide safe and quality breathing protection by solving the most problematic formaldehyde problem.Combining products for a more complete pollution solutionIn CR Land’s open office and front desk areas, IQAir installed a combination of room and personal air purifiers, including the CleanZone SL, HealthPro Series room air purifiers, Atem personal air purifiers, and an AirVisual air quality monitoring solution.CleanZone SL: medical-grade air for any indoor spaceThe CleanZone SL is a powerful, stand-alone air purifier designed for large spaces that require a quiet environment, including offices, schools, hospitals, and other commercial sites.The CleanZone SL provides exceptional indoor pollution control in near silence. It’s the world’s quietest air purifier. Other key features include: Captures diesel soot, allergens, viruses, and ultrafine particles (the smallest that exist) Removes 99% particles down to 0.3 microns and 95% down to 0.003 microns Cleans the all the air in a 1,000 sq. ft. space every 15 min. Can be mounted vertically or horizontally to a wall or be attached to a wheelbase to be transportable Requires the amount of energy as a conventional light bulb to run (100 watts) Cost equals a few cents/day to clean up to 9,000 sq. ft. Uses Advanced Micro-Fiber (AMF) filtration - an almost impenetrable barrier to particles Slim design (only 10 inches deep) Tamper-proof Combines Swiss design quality and German manufacturing standards IQAir engineers visited CR Land’s Huarun Real Estate offices, where they installed the CleanZone SL on the ceiling, taking up no floor space.The Huarun Real Estate offices also have small office spaces, in addition to the large central space where the CleanZone SL is attached to the ceiling. These smaller rooms feature HealthPro Series room air purifiers, awarded the “Best Buy” award five times by Consumers Digest among room air purifiers for allergies and asthma Every HealthPro Series air purifier installed was individually tested and came with a Certificate of Performance.In other open spaces, workers sit with Atem Desk personal air purifiers sending clean air to their personal breathing zones. The Health Pro Series and Atem Series both remove 99.5 of all particles down to .003 microns, in comparison to competing filters capable of handling only .3 microns.AirVisual monitoring systemCR Land’s Indoor Air Quality is closely monitored by AirVisual air quality monitors. Workers and upper management can rest and breathe, easily knowing the status of their Indoor Air Quality. AirVisual Pro air quality monitors register and catalog real-time air quality data. Through AirVisual’s API widget, this information can easily be viewed and downloaded.The air quality index from the closest outdoor air quality monitor can be displayed on multiple platforms alongside the Indoor Air Quality. With over 80,000 locations positioned around the globe, AirVisual air quality station and air quality monitor presence is constantly being expanded.AirVisual technology covers both PM2.5 particles and common gases and chemicals like ozone, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide, invisible threats that greatly impact human health. Office managers can keep employees informed about potentially challenging travel and outdoor activities plans using AirVisual weather and air pollution forecasts for the next 72 hours as well as compare forecast data to 72-hour air quality histories.Employees appreciate CR Land’s urban air oasisCR Land’s initiative to take care of their staff’s breathing concerns is well-received by its employees and the media.Aside from the air purification and general health benefits, employees benefit from CleanZone SL being nearly silent. At its highest fan speed, the purifier tops out at 45 dB(A), three times lower than what typical professional air purifiers generate.CR Land vows to continue perfecting their urban air oasis together with IQAir. Learn more about how IQAir can help your organization create a clean air oasis.","

The office has almost become a second home for many urban professionals.

People in developed nations spend between 80 and 90 percent of their lives indoors. About one-third of that time is at work. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is often two to five times worse indoors than outdoors.

With so much of our time spent inside workplaces that have potentially harmful air quality, it behooves employers to provide clean air in the workplace.

Even those working in the concrete jungle deserve to work in a clean air oasis. Even more, studies show that workers are more productive when breathing clean air.

What can make office building indoor air quality so bad?

Environmental regulatory agencies1,2 agree that air pollutants aren’t restricted to the outdoors.

Chemical pollutant sources in offices can include emissions from office equipment, furniture, wall and floor coverings, cleaning products, and combustion product gases.

There are also potential biological contaminants, such as fungi and molds, dust mite allergens, bacteria, viruses, and pollen – all brought in by ventilated air, employees, and visitors.

Particulate matter, such as dust or dirt, is brought in from the outdoors as well as generated by the use of common office equipment or during construction and remodeling. Offices and public spaces that permit smoking also invite chemical and particulate matter pollution.

Sometimes, poor office building indoor air quality can be compounded by the very systems and policies designed to maintain employee comfort. HVAC systems can be a source of pollutants, while office plants can be responsible for the growth of fungi and molds if overwatered. It’s inadvisable to place plants in the airstream of heating, ventilation, and HVAC equipment, as this can help distribute mold and pollen throughout a room.³

Fortune 500 company chooses IQAir for China office

Chinese property developer China Resources Land Ltd, a fortune 500 company, heeded the call to create a clean air oasis for their workers in their Dalian branch, located in Liaoning Province, China.

China Resources Land (CR Land), is one of the most powerful integrated real estate developers in Mainland China. Adhering to their corporate ethos of “better quality, better city,” CR Land advocates for sustainable urban development and business progress. CR Land took that ethos a step further by bringing in IQAir to provide clean air for their employees.

IQAir helps CR Land create a healthy and comfortable office environment for employees and provide safe and quality breathing protection by solving the most problematic formaldehyde problem.

Combining products for a more complete pollution solution

In CR Land’s open office and front desk areas, IQAir installed a combination of room and personal air purifiers, including the CleanZone SL, HealthPro Series room air purifiers, Atem personal air purifiers, and an AirVisual air quality monitoring solution.

CleanZone SL: medical-grade air for any indoor space

The CleanZone SL is a powerful, stand-alone air purifier designed for large spaces that require a quiet environment, including offices, schools, hospitals, and other commercial sites.

The CleanZone SL provides exceptional indoor pollution control in near silence. It’s the world’s quietest air purifier. Other key features include:

Captures diesel soot, allergens, viruses, and ultrafine particles (the smallest that exist)
Removes 99% particles down to 0.3 microns and 95% down to 0.003 microns
Cleans the all the air in a 1,000 sq. ft. space every 15 min.
Can be mounted vertically or horizontally to a wall or be attached to a wheelbase to be transportable
Requires the amount of energy as a conventional light bulb to run (100 watts)
Cost equals a few cents/day to clean up to 9,000 sq. ft.
Uses Advanced Micro-Fiber (AMF) filtration - an almost impenetrable barrier to particles
Slim design (only 10 inches deep)
Tamper-proof
Combines Swiss design quality and German manufacturing standards

IQAir engineers visited CR Land’s Huarun Real Estate offices, where they installed the CleanZone SL on the ceiling, taking up no floor space.

The Huarun Real Estate offices also have small office spaces, in addition to the large central space where the CleanZone SL is attached to the ceiling. These smaller rooms feature HealthPro Series room air purifiers, awarded the “Best Buy” award five times by Consumers Digest among room air purifiers for allergies and asthma Every HealthPro Series air purifier installed was individually tested and came with a Certificate of Performance.

In other open spaces, workers sit with Atem Desk personal air purifiers sending clean air to their personal breathing zones. The Health Pro Series and Atem Series both remove 99.5 of all particles down to .003 microns, in comparison to competing filters capable of handling only .3 microns.

AirVisual monitoring system

CR Land’s Indoor Air Quality is closely monitored by AirVisual air quality monitors. Workers and upper management can rest and breathe, easily knowing the status of their Indoor Air Quality. AirVisual Pro air quality monitors register and catalog real-time air quality data. Through AirVisual’s API widget, this information can easily be viewed and downloaded.

The air quality index from the closest outdoor air quality monitor can be displayed on multiple platforms alongside the Indoor Air Quality. With over 80,000 locations positioned around the globe, AirVisual air quality station and air quality monitor presence is constantly being expanded.

AirVisual technology covers both PM2.5 particles and common gases and chemicals like ozone, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide, invisible threats that greatly impact human health.
\n\nOffice managers can keep employees informed about potentially challenging travel and outdoor activities plans using AirVisual weather and air pollution forecasts for the next 72 hours as well as compare forecast data to 72-hour air quality histories.

Employees appreciate CR Land’s urban air oasis

CR Land’s initiative to take care of their staff’s breathing concerns is well-received by its employees and the media.

Aside from the air purification and general health benefits, employees benefit from CleanZone SL being nearly silent. At its highest fan speed, the purifier tops out at 45 dB(A), three times lower than what typical professional air purifiers generate.

CR Land vows to continue perfecting their urban air oasis together with IQAir.
\n\n
\n\nLearn more about how IQAir can help your organization create a clean air oasis.
\n\n

","office-air-quality","gid://shopify/Article/564862255182","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/office-air-quality","2019-01-22T14:46:53Z",[1284,1285,897],"Air Quality","Sick Building Syndrome","China Resources Ltd provides employees with clean air",{"_10":1288,"_202":1289,"_205":1290,"_207":1291,"_203":1292},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269422198862","Cityscape of Liaoning Province, China","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Oasis_Desk_0_5463de8b-d994-48d9-8eec-f4b89dfc641c.jpg?v=1751029688",1440,750,{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1294,"_1139":1295,"_1154":1296,"_1156":1296,"_1158":1297,"_1160":1298,"_1008":1299,"_10":1300,"_1164":1301,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1302,"_635":1303,"_599":1304,"_1171":1305},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Indoor air pollution is a huge problem. Companies like Unicom Pay take indoor air quality seriously.","The best companies in the world to work for all have one thing in common: they take care of their own. And they use the best science and data available to support their decisions to improve workplace productivity and keep their people happy. But more and more companies realize that they’ve been missing a crucial part of the equation: indoor air quality, or IAQ. Poor IAQ contributes to enormous losses in productivity, revenue, and employee satisfaction. And yet, few air quality standards for office buildings exist beyond, for example, the prominent Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Energy Star certifications, neither of which have much to say about air quality issues. One company decided to take the extra leap into ensuring the best possible workplace when they approached their employees with some great news: brand-new offices! And in a groundbreaking move, Unicom Pay decided to build their new offices from the ground up by using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient facilities, and a recruiting tool that few global companies can claim: world-class air purification solutions ensuring the best possible IAQ for their employees. Unicom Pay: No stranger to innovation Unicom Pay, a subsidiary of China Unicom’s Wo-Wallet, runs a comprehensive personal payment business as well as manages online personal finance services for individual users through the Wo-Wallet client. It’s also well known for its integrated payment and financial services aimed at both government and corporate clients. China Unicom is headquartered in Beijing, with offices in Shanghai and Hong Kong. Unicom Pay provides a reliable and easy payment application that rivals many of the world’s best financial services companies while also committing to protecting its users’ privacy and information security. As a result, its growth, stature, and success have skyrocketed in the few years since its founding as it offers increasingly innovative financial solutions. But the rapid expansion of its business brought about the need for the construction of a new office building. And Unicom Pay’s workforce was excited, sure, but not just for the usual reasons: Unicom Pay decided to make history again by making IAQ the primary focus of their new facilities. The Problem: New offices and formaldehyde Like many companies building new offices, Unicom Pay was wary of the notorious presence of chemicals like formaldehyde in its new offices. But even though the company ensured that it used the finest and greenest materials, not even the most eco-friendly building can avoid formaldehyde off-gassing from materials used in paint, flooring, and other furnishings. The serious harm that formaldehyde can cause has made this substance a huge headache (quite literally) for anyone doing building renovations. The fumes alone can cause symptoms like coughing, skin rashes, respiratory tract infections, and more. And even with proper ventilation and air purification, formaldehyde can remain in the indoor air for years after a building’s complete. Formaldehyde is just one of a number of chemical and biological components that put building occupants, whether residents of a home or apartment complex, or office workers at risk of suffering from sick building syndrome. A global health problem, the British National Health Service identifies symptoms as including:1 headaches runny nose dry, itchy skin, eyes, or throat cough or wheezing rashes tiredness and problems focusing To make sure that its employees got the healthiest, cleanest, and most productive environment possible, Unicom Pay didn’t spare a dime in actively seeking out the technology to remove even the invisible health and wellness threats for its entire organization. And Unicom Pay knew exactly who to ask for the best IAQ solution in the world: its longtime partners at IQAir. The Solution: IQAir Knowing that Unicom Pay’s employees were anxious to move into their brand-new offices, IQAir quickly came in and performed an extensive survey of the new facilities and research on the environment’s air quality. In record time, IQAir's team of professional indoor air quality experts recommended the perfect product for their new spaces: the CleanZone SL, a commercial-grade, stand-alone air purifier designed for newly renovated offices and commercial buildings to fill them with the cleanest possible air at high volumes. IQAir developed the IQAir CleanZone SL to enhance indoor air quality in offices, schools, hotels, clubs, and other high-traffic, open-plan public areas. This model is especially suited for places like offices and schools because of its ultra-quiet yet ultra-high performance: The CleanZone SL has a high airflow capacity of up to 800 cubic meters per hour (about 470.862 cubic feet per minute), providing unequaled air filtration while meeting even the strictest noise standards. Equipped with ColdFire™ filter media for formaldehyde, the CleanZone SL features leading-edge catalytic technology with formaldehyde purification efficiency drastically higher than any existing formaldehyde removal methods. The high cumulate clean mass (CCM) rating of the CleanZone SL’s filter media guarantees stable, long-term protection against the buildup of common, gaseous indoor pollutants. HyperHEPAfiltration removes more than 99.5% of particulate matter down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles that exist – densely packed fibers continuously capture PM2.5 particles, bacteria, viruses, allergens, and numerous other contaminants before pumping pure air back out into the offices. Virtually silent even at the highest fan speed setting, the CleanZone SL delivers high performance air purification while fostering peaceful surroundings for office workers. Before Unicom Pay’s relocation, several CleanZone SL air purifiers were already in position in its new office building, operating 24/7 to purify the indoor air. Better yet, IQAir engineers provided on-site services and carefully verified each step with Unicom Pay – and every single purifier received thorough performance testing before finally being installed on site. Not just a one-time deal: A long-term relationship The company’s roots with IQAir run deep: Unicom Pay and IQAir have done business before, and a successful years-long relationship ultimately led to the company’s decision to fill their new offices with the best air purification technology. Unicom Pay previously purchased several HealthPro Plus air purifiers to help their employees cope with air pollution. With the HealthPro Series having captured more accolades and awards than any other air purifier, and with every product manufactured and individually tested in Switzerland, performance expectations were high. The company was so impressed with IQAir’s technology that they purchased HealthPro Plus purifiers for every corner of their (now former) office space, providing fresh indoor air to Unicom Pay’s employees even during periods of record-breaking smog. As a Unicom Pay employee said, “During the past two years while we’ve used IQAir products, we tested the air purifiers multiple times by placing an air quality monitor next to the outlet that delivers air. No matter how serious the pollution was, the particulate reading was always ‘0’! All of us around here have 100% confidence and trust in IQAir.”","

The best companies in the world to work for all have one thing in common: they take care of their own. And they use the best science and data available to support their decisions to improve workplace productivity and keep their people happy.

But more and more companies realize that they’ve been missing a crucial part of the equation: indoor air quality, or IAQ.

Poor IAQ contributes to enormous losses in productivity, revenue, and employee satisfaction. And yet, few air quality standards for office buildings exist beyond, for example, the prominent Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Energy Star certifications, neither of which have much to say about air quality issues.

One company decided to take the extra leap into ensuring the best possible workplace when they approached their employees with some great news: brand-new offices!

And in a groundbreaking move, Unicom Pay decided to build their new offices from the ground up by using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient facilities, and a recruiting tool that few global companies can claim: world-class air purification solutions ensuring the best possible IAQ for their employees.

Unicom Pay: No stranger to innovation

Unicom Pay, a subsidiary of China Unicom’s Wo-Wallet, runs a comprehensive personal payment business as well as manages online personal finance services for individual users through the Wo-Wallet client. It’s also well known for its integrated payment and financial services aimed at both government and corporate clients.

China Unicom is headquartered in Beijing, with offices in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Unicom Pay provides a reliable and easy payment application that rivals many of the world’s best financial services companies while also committing to protecting its users’ privacy and information security. As a result, its growth, stature, and success have skyrocketed in the few years since its founding as it offers increasingly innovative financial solutions.

But the rapid expansion of its business brought about the need for the construction of a new office building. And Unicom Pay’s workforce was excited, sure, but not just for the usual reasons: Unicom Pay decided to make history again by making IAQ the primary focus of their new facilities.

The Problem: New offices and formaldehyde

Like many companies building new offices, Unicom Pay was wary of the notorious presence of chemicals like formaldehyde in its new offices. But even though the company ensured that it used the finest and greenest materials, not even the most eco-friendly building can avoid formaldehyde off-gassing from materials used in paint, flooring, and other furnishings.

The serious harm that formaldehyde can cause has made this substance a huge headache (quite literally) for anyone doing building renovations. The fumes alone can cause symptoms like coughing, skin rashes, respiratory tract infections, and more. And even with proper ventilation and air purification, formaldehyde can remain in the indoor air for years after a building’s complete.

Formaldehyde is just one of a number of chemical and biological components that put building occupants, whether residents of a home or apartment complex, or office workers at risk of suffering from sick building syndrome. A global health problem, the British National Health Service identifies symptoms as including:¹

headaches
runny nose
dry, itchy skin, eyes, or throat
cough or wheezing
rashes
tiredness and problems focusing

To make sure that its employees got the healthiest, cleanest, and most productive environment possible, Unicom Pay didn’t spare a dime in actively seeking out the technology to remove even the invisible health and wellness threats for its entire organization.

And Unicom Pay knew exactly who to ask for the best IAQ solution in the world: its longtime partners at IQAir. 

The Solution: IQAir

Knowing that Unicom Pay’s employees were anxious to move into their brand-new offices, IQAir quickly came in and performed an extensive survey of the new facilities and research on the environment’s air quality. 

In record time, IQAir's team of professional indoor air quality experts recommended the perfect product for their new spaces: the CleanZone SL, a commercial-grade, stand-alone air purifier designed for newly renovated offices and commercial buildings to fill them with the cleanest possible air at high volumes.

IQAir developed the IQAir CleanZone SL to enhance indoor air quality in offices, schools, hotels, clubs, and other high-traffic, open-plan public areas. This model is especially suited for places like offices and schools because of its ultra-quiet yet ultra-high performance: 

\nThe CleanZone SL has a high airflow capacity of up to 800 cubic meters per hour (about 470.862 cubic feet per minute), providing unequaled air filtration while meeting even the strictest noise standards.
\nEquipped with ColdFire™ filter media for formaldehyde, the CleanZone SL features leading-edge catalytic technology with formaldehyde purification efficiency drastically higher than any existing formaldehyde removal methods.
\nThe high cumulate clean mass (CCM) rating of the CleanZone SL’s filter media guarantees stable, long-term protection against the buildup of common, gaseous indoor pollutants.
\nHyperHEPAfiltration removes more than 99.5% of particulate matter down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles that exist – densely packed fibers continuously capture PM2.5 particles, bacteria, viruses, allergens, and numerous other contaminants before pumping pure air back out into the offices.
\nVirtually silent even at the highest fan speed setting, the CleanZone SL delivers high performance air purification while fostering peaceful surroundings for office workers.

Before Unicom Pay’s relocation, several CleanZone SL air purifiers were already in position in its new office building, operating 24/7 to purify the indoor air. Better yet, IQAir engineers provided on-site services and carefully verified each step with Unicom Pay – and every single purifier received thorough performance testing before finally being installed on site.

Not just a one-time deal: A long-term relationship

The company’s roots with IQAir run deep: Unicom Pay and IQAir have done business before, and a successful years-long relationship ultimately led to the company’s decision to fill their new offices with the best air purification technology. 

Unicom Pay previously purchased several HealthPro Plus air purifiers to help their employees cope with air pollution.

With the HealthPro Series having captured more accolades and awards than any other air purifier, and with every product manufactured and individually tested in Switzerland, performance expectations were high.

The company was so impressed with IQAir’s technology that they purchased HealthPro Plus purifiers for every corner of their (now former) office space, providing fresh indoor air to Unicom Pay’s employees even during periods of record-breaking smog.

As a Unicom Pay employee said, “During the past two years while we’ve used IQAir products, we tested the air purifiers multiple times by placing an air quality monitor next to the outlet that delivers air. No matter how serious the pollution was, the particulate reading was always ‘0’! All of us around here have 100% confidence and trust in IQAir.”

","preserving-indoor-air-quality-for-world-class-workplace","gid://shopify/Article/564861501518","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/preserving-indoor-air-quality-for-world-class-workplace","2018-09-17T16:24:05Z",[1285,897],"Unicom Pay: One company’s mission to give its employees world-class indoor air quality",{"_10":1306,"_202":1307,"_205":1308,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269490880590","Unicom Pay","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Unicom_withoutlogo_fa7c36f5-9938-4268-89b4-be0936efd5bc.jpg?v=1751632891",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1310,"_1139":1311,"_1154":1312,"_1156":1312,"_1158":1313,"_1160":1314,"_1008":1315,"_10":1316,"_1164":1317,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1318,"_635":1319,"_599":1320,"_1171":1321},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"For the first time, air quality in Port Harcourt, Nigeria is being tracked using IQAir air quality data. Learn about this breakthrough technology here.","The cutting-edge AirVisual Pro air quality monitor by IQAir has been deployed as an outdoor air quality monitoring station in cities worldwide. In some cities, the AirVisual Pro is the only data source available. One such city is Port Harcourt, Nigeria. In 2017, citizens chose to take their local air quality into their own hands. For the first time, air quality data from Nigeria was reported in real time and broadcast live to the world. For the first time, air quality data from Nigeria was being reported in real time and broadcast live to the world. Rafael, the proactive citizen behind an ingenious air quality monitoring installation involving the AirVisual Pro in his home of Port Harcourt, explained what he sought to achieve by implementing his AirVisual Pro as a public outdoor monitoring station. Port Harcourt, Nigeria: Covered in a black layer of soot One day, Rafael noticed a radical change in air quality in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Every morning, he could “see, feel and smell” the pollution in the air. For several months, the city went through a hazardous phase of air pollution that covered all surfaces in soot.1 During this “soot-storm,” many of Port Harcourt’s nearly 2 million citizens took social media by storm, sharing pictures and videos of the black layer covering clothes, cars, and skin. Many of Port Harcourt’s nearly 2million citizens took social media by storm, sharing pictures and videos of the black layer covering clothes, cars, and skin. Situated in the delta of the river Niger, Port Harcourt, the capital city of the Rivers State, is one of the “most impacted cities by air pollution, because of its oil industry,” says Rafael. Nigeria is the first oil-producing country in Africa.Rivers State, due to its geographical location and natural resources, is home to many international petroleum firms, oil refineries, and pipelines.2,3 AirVisual Pro: A local solution to a national problem Rafael noticed that the pollution was getting worse. A father of two, Rafael simply wanted to know “with high accuracy how bad the air quality really is” so that he could take measures to protect his family from the effects of the poor air quality. The lack of public data and information motivated him to request reports on the situation. But his efforts were largely futile, as “the maximum we managed was to get a daily advisory notification, not real-time data.” Rafael wanted data from which he could make informed decisions on the spot. Then, he discovered the AirVisual Pro air quality monitor which promised exactly what he wanted. He promptly purchased his first AirVisual Pro and installed it at his home. Eager to let his local community benefit from his AirVisual Pro data as well, he set it up outdoors as a public monitoring station. At the time, Rafael's air quality monitor was the first of only two air air quality data sources available in the whole country. With the AirVisual Pro, Rafael said he could detect pollution trends and patterns as well as whether it was safe for his children and his family to be outdoors. Having “no power to deal with the source of the pollution, all I can do is have the data and make decisions accordingly.” What Rafael was most concerned about “illegal activities like illegal oil refineries.”which were among the suspected pollution sources for a pollution spike in Port Harcourt.4 At the time, Nigerian authorities estimated that corruption and gang activities managed to siphon “120,000 barrels of oil each day, or about 6 percent of Nigeria's annual barrels per day output.”5 Once stolen, the oil is often refined in dangerous and improvised installations before entering the black market. These illegal refineries not only pollute the air, water, and soil but also endanger the men and women whose work in these installations is often their only source of income. These illegal oil refineries not only pollute the air, water, and soil they also endanger the men and women whose work in these installations is often their only source of income. The government seems to be tackling the problem by burning down these makeshift refineries as well as the vessels they use for transporting the crude oil, which creates huge toxic smoke.6 A 2019 article published in The Open Chemical Engineering Journal noted that in 2012, 4,349 illegal refineries were destroyed by the military in the Niger Delta.7 In 2020, 136 dugout pits and 201 surface metal storage tanks containing 14,434 barrels of suspected stolen crude oil were dismantled by the military.8 Rafael started noticing high spikes of visible pollution at night. His suspicions were confirmed by his AirVisual Pro, which showed spikes in PM2.5 in the evenings. Consequently, Rafael started noticing high spikes of visible pollution at night. His suspicions were confirmed by his AirVisual Pro readings, which showed spikes in PM2.5(particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns)in the evenings. Poor air quality in Nigeria: A symptom of a larger problem The city of Onitsha, less than 200 miles from Port Harcourt, was ranked by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the city with the world’s worst air in 2016.9 Onitsha average dan annual concentration of 594 µg/m3 (micrograms per cubic meter) of PM10 particles, about 30 times over the international guideline of 20 µg/m3.10 The city of Onitsha, less than 200 miles from Port Harcourt, was ranked by the World Health Organization as the city with the world’s worst air. Onitsha’s pollution statistics closely mirror those of Port Harcourt, that is now leading a revolution in uncovering not only the sources of local air pollution but also the patterns that underlie their behaviour. According to the 2019 World Air Quality Report, Kano in northeastern Nigeria was the 23rd most polluted city in Africa, with an average air quality was 21.4µ/m3. The city peaked at 59.8µg/m3 that February. In 2018, Kano recorded an average of 53.4µg/m3. In Rafael’s opinion, illegal refineries and the government’s crackdown on their operations “is only part of what is going on,” as there are many causes of air pollution in Nigeria. Many other illegal activities, including waste burning and metal smelting, combined with dry weather and dusty grounds, drastically increase PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. Dry weather and dust are likely a factor in Kano's pollution, as the city is located in the arid Sudanian Savannah, just south of the Sahel and Sahara Desert. These spikes in pollutants sometimes cause the air quality index (AQI) reading in Port Harcourt to skyrocket over 400. Any AQI reading over 300 is considered “Hazardous,” meaning that poor air quality is so bad that it’s considered a public health emergency. Pollutant spikes sometimes cause local air quality readings in Port Harcourt to skyrocket over 400 – meaning that poor air quality is a public health emergency. Exposure to air pollution across Nigeria is significant. Nigeria was the fifth most polluted country in Africa according to the 2019 World Air Quality Report, with an annual PM2.5 mean of 21.4µg/m3.9 The air quality revolution will not be televised...without your help As levels rise drastically around the world, especially in urban areas, air pollution has received increasingly more attention and awareness: The Lancet Commission on pollution and health published a report in 2017finding that nearly 7 million people die each year from causes directly related to air pollution.11 Using IQAir data, Greene peace estimated that 200,000 people in the world's largest cities died from air pollution in 2020. According to the 2019 World Air Quality Report, over 90% of the world’s population lives in places where the air is considered unsafe to breathe by WHO standards. Reports say that, in some heavily polluted cities, such as Delhi in India and Pittsburgh in the United States, breathing the local air is equivalent to smoking up to 44 cigarettes a day.12,13 In many countries, air quality data is still available only from government-operated sources, both at the federal and local level. This can make it challenging to acquire air quality data from a specific region that may not be directly represented by government air quality monitors. But citizen scientists like Rafael are transforming the way that the global public can monitor and act upon air quality patterns. Rafael’s air quality monitor, which he installed outdoors, shared its data with his local community. He told us that it was very useful in helping him make smarter decisions about outdoor activities. It also enabled his neighbours to be more careful about their daily lives. The data, he said, “is highly valuable” and can encourage people to keep local polluters accountable and mobilize the community to invest into the air they’re breathing. As long as air quality monitors continue to be adopted by passionate activists, citizen scientists, and even concerned families or homeowners, the air quality revolution will continue to gain traction, ensuring that air quality is improved for the entire world as knowledge empowers change. Get involved! Interested in setting up your own local air quality monitoring network to put your community on the map with data and recommendations tailored to your neighbourhood? Find out how to become an outdoor air quality data contributor today.","

The cutting-edge AirVisual Pro air quality monitor by IQAir has been deployed as an outdoor air quality monitoring station in cities worldwide. In some cities, the AirVisual Pro is the only data source available.

One such city is Port Harcourt, Nigeria. In 2017, citizens chose to take their local air quality into their own hands. For the first time, air quality data from Nigeria was reported in real time and broadcast live to the world.

For the first time, air quality data from Nigeria was being reported in real time and broadcast live to the world.

Rafael, the proactive citizen behind an ingenious air quality monitoring installation involving the AirVisual Pro in his home of Port Harcourt, explained what he sought to achieve by implementing his AirVisual Pro as a public outdoor monitoring station.

Port Harcourt, Nigeria: Covered in a black layer of soot

One day, Rafael noticed a radical change in air quality in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Every morning, he could “see, feel and smell” the pollution in the air.

For several months, the city went through a hazardous phase of air pollution that covered all surfaces in soot.¹ During this “soot-storm,” many of Port Harcourt’s nearly 2 million citizens took social media by storm, sharing pictures and videos of the black layer covering clothes, cars, and skin.

Many of Port Harcourt’s nearly 2million citizens took social media by storm, sharing pictures and videos of the black layer covering clothes, cars, and skin.

Situated in the delta of the river Niger, Port Harcourt, the capital city of the Rivers State, is one of the “most impacted cities by air pollution, because of its oil industry,” says Rafael.

Nigeria is the first oil-producing country in Africa.Rivers State, due to its geographical location and natural resources, is home to many international petroleum firms, oil refineries, and pipelines.^2,3

AirVisual Pro: A local solution to a national problem

Rafael noticed that the pollution was getting worse. A father of two, Rafael simply wanted to know “with high accuracy how bad the air quality really is” so that he could take measures to protect his family from the effects of the poor air quality.

The lack of public data and information motivated him to request reports on the situation. But his efforts were largely futile, as “the maximum we managed was to get a daily advisory notification, not real-time data.” Rafael wanted data from which he could make informed decisions on the spot.

Then, he discovered the AirVisual Pro air quality monitor which promised exactly what he wanted. He promptly purchased his first AirVisual Pro and installed it at his home. Eager to let his local community benefit from his AirVisual Pro data as well, he set it up outdoors as a public monitoring station. At the time, Rafael's air quality monitor was the first of only two air air quality data sources available in the whole country.

With the AirVisual Pro, Rafael said he could detect pollution trends and patterns as well as whether it was safe for his children and his family to be outdoors. Having “no power to deal with the source of the pollution, all I can do is have the data and make decisions accordingly.”

What Rafael was most concerned about “illegal activities like illegal oil refineries.”which were among the suspected pollution sources for a pollution spike in Port Harcourt.⁴

At the time, Nigerian authorities estimated that corruption and gang activities managed to siphon “120,000 barrels of oil each day, or about 6 percent of Nigeria's annual barrels per day output.”⁵ Once stolen, the oil is often refined in dangerous and improvised installations before entering the black market. These illegal refineries not only pollute the air, water, and soil but also endanger the men and women whose work in these installations is often their only source of income.

These illegal oil refineries not only pollute the air, water, and soil they also endanger the men and women whose work in these installations is often their only source of income.

The government seems to be tackling the problem by burning down these makeshift refineries as well as the vessels they use for transporting the crude oil, which creates huge toxic smoke.⁶

A 2019 article published in The Open Chemical Engineering Journal noted that in 2012, 4,349 illegal refineries were destroyed by the military in the Niger Delta.⁷ In 2020, 136 dugout pits and 201 surface metal storage tanks containing 14,434 barrels of suspected stolen crude oil were dismantled by the military.⁸

Rafael started noticing high spikes of visible pollution at night. His suspicions were confirmed by his AirVisual Pro, which showed spikes in PM2.5 in the evenings.

Consequently, Rafael started noticing high spikes of visible pollution at night. His suspicions were confirmed by his AirVisual Pro readings, which showed spikes in PM2.5(particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns)in the evenings.

Poor air quality in Nigeria: A symptom of a larger problem

The city of Onitsha, less than 200 miles from Port Harcourt, was ranked by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the city with the world’s worst air in 2016.⁹ Onitsha average dan annual concentration of 594 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter) of PM10 particles, about 30 times over the international guideline of 20 µg/m³.¹⁰

The city of Onitsha, less than 200 miles from Port Harcourt, was ranked by the World Health Organization as the city with the world’s worst air.

Onitsha’s pollution statistics closely mirror those of Port Harcourt, that is now leading a revolution in uncovering not only the sources of local air pollution but also the patterns that underlie their behaviour.

According to the 2019 World Air Quality Report, Kano in northeastern Nigeria was the 23rd most polluted city in Africa, with an average air quality was 21.4µ/m³. The city peaked at 59.8µg/m³ that February. In 2018, Kano recorded an average of 53.4µg/m³.

In Rafael’s opinion, illegal refineries and the government’s crackdown on their operations “is only part of what is going on,” as there are many causes of air pollution in Nigeria.

Many other illegal activities, including waste burning and metal smelting, combined with dry weather and dusty grounds, drastically increase PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. Dry weather and dust are likely a factor in Kano's pollution, as the city is located in the arid Sudanian Savannah, just south of the Sahel and Sahara Desert.

These spikes in pollutants sometimes cause the air quality index (AQI) reading in Port Harcourt to skyrocket over 400. Any AQI reading over 300 is considered “Hazardous,” meaning that poor air quality is so bad that it’s considered a public health emergency.

Pollutant spikes sometimes cause local air quality readings in Port Harcourt to skyrocket over 400 – meaning that poor air quality is a public health emergency.

Exposure to air pollution across Nigeria is significant. Nigeria was the fifth most polluted country in Africa according to the 2019 World Air Quality Report, with an annual PM2.5 mean of 21.4µg/m³.⁹

The air quality revolution will not be televised...without your help

As levels rise drastically around the world, especially in urban areas, air pollution has received increasingly more attention and awareness:

The Lancet Commission on pollution and health published a report in 2017finding that nearly 7 million people die each year from causes directly related to air pollution.¹¹\n
Using IQAir data, Greene peace estimated that 200,000 people in the world's largest cities died from air pollution in 2020.
According to the 2019 World Air Quality Report, over 90% of the world’s population lives in places where the air is considered unsafe to breathe by WHO standards.
Reports say that, in some heavily polluted cities, such as Delhi in India and Pittsburgh in the United States, breathing the local air is equivalent to smoking up to 44 cigarettes a day.^12,13\n

In many countries, air quality data is still available only from government-operated sources, both at the federal and local level. This can make it challenging to acquire air quality data from a specific region that may not be directly represented by government air quality monitors.

But citizen scientists like Rafael are transforming the way that the global public can monitor and act upon air quality patterns.

Rafael’s air quality monitor, which he installed outdoors, shared its data with his local community. He told us that it was very useful in helping him make smarter decisions about outdoor activities. It also enabled his neighbours to be more careful about their daily lives.

The data, he said, “is highly valuable” and can encourage people to keep local polluters accountable and mobilize the community to invest into the air they’re breathing.

As long as air quality monitors continue to be adopted by passionate activists, citizen scientists, and even concerned families or homeowners, the air quality revolution will continue to gain traction, ensuring that air quality is improved for the entire world as knowledge empowers change.

Get involved!

Interested in setting up your own local air quality monitoring network to put your community on the map with data and recommendations tailored to your neighbourhood?

Find out how to become an outdoor air quality data contributor today.

","air-quality-in-africa","gid://shopify/Article/564862910542","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/air-quality-in-africa","2018-06-12T13:41:15Z",[1284,710,715,897],"Revealing the Invisible: Rafael and the \"World's Worst Air\"",{"_10":1322,"_202":1323,"_205":1324,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269596360782","Panoramic shot of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Revealing-the-invisible_desktop_7ba901ac-dc26-4161-a890-6c0463caabd5.jpg?v=1752576256",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1326,"_1139":1327,"_1154":1328,"_1156":1328,"_1158":1329,"_1160":1330,"_1008":1331,"_10":1332,"_1164":1333,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1334,"_635":1335,"_599":1336,"_1171":1337},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Don’t be overwhelmed by the problems of air pollution in your community. Take action! Get a framework for success here.","Many times, a movement for better neighborhood air quality begins with a concerned individual. Will you be the next person who makes a difference? It’s not as difficult as you might think. Thankfully, there are many models for success to learn from.Defining your neighborhood’s air quality problemIf you suspect air pollution in your neighborhood is an issue, find out if there is any current data about local pollution levels. There are public air quality monitoring stations across the U.S. and the world. However, many places still lack the data required to track air pollution.Local residents are a valuable resourcefor identifying pollution sources.Start by looking at air pollution monitoring websites. For example, IQAiroffers free air quality data for more than 80,000 locations around the world.You may require air quality data for an exact location, in which case you will need an air quality monitor. By gathering data, you can help pinpoint where air pollution is originating. You can even help your neighbors by registering an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor as a designated public outdoor station. Learn more about joining the global network of air quality data here.Can pollution information in government databases be trusted?Government air monitoring stations generally use reliable equipment and are highly accurate. However, air pollution measurements can vary within relatively short distances, due to the location of the station, prevailing winds, and proximity to air pollution sources. Sometimes, it’s necessary to take action in gathering accurate and complete data sets. For example, the Los Angeles Collaborative for Health and Justice conducted a research project called Ground Truthing. The community-based, participatory project sought to fill in data gaps they felt resulted in an inaccurate picture of the environmental exposure and health risks many neighborhoods face. Local community residents were guided by research professionals in gathering data about toxic emitters.Key findings include: There are many more hazardous facilities near residential neighborhoods than recorded in state and federal government databases. State databases contain significant location errors of emission sources. Particulate matter (PM2.5) levels regularly exceed the regulatory standards set by law. These are just a few of gaps in data that the collaborative project identified. Local residents are indeed a valuable source for identifying pollution sources and monitoring pollution levels.1How a “citizen scientist” took actionA resident of Tonawanda, N.Y. took action where regulators failed. After years of foul-smelling air from a nearby industrial plant, inaction from New York state officials, and declining personal health, a former mail carrier felt no choice but to become a citizen scientist and activist.A former mail carrier felt no choice but to become a citizen scientist and activist.A small group of Tonawanda residents started using buckets and hand-held vacuums to take air samples. They placed plastic bags inside buckets, connected a hose to the bag, and used either camping pumps or small electric vacuums to collect air samples. The samples were taken to state and independent labs for evaluation and showed extremely high levels of benzene, a known human carcinogen. This information was the catalyst for state regulators to formally blame Tonawanda Coke for releasing high levels of benzene and other dangerous chemicals in violation of the Clean Air Act.2There is now a “Bucket Brigade” movement of citizen scientists who are taking their neighborhood air quality monitoring into their own hands. The buckets are now an EPA-approved way for residents to take air samples and have them tested for over 100 air pollutants.3Talk to your neighborsOnce you have a case built for the source of pollution, find out if the pollution is adversely affecting local residents. You can do this by holding a public community forum inviting people to share their stories, or by going door-to-door and asking residents to fill out a health survey. You can also approach a university to share your concerns and invite them to do a study.For an example of how to this process can work, you can look to the environmental organization Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ). They were able to win a settlement in an environmental justice case using the following steps: Partnered with a local university to do a health study of residents living near a rail yard suspected of causing sickness. Data revealed that residents near the rail yard experienced elevated rates of cancers, and that the children at a nearby elementary school had a shocking 47 percent asthma rate. A follow-up study measured pollution levels from the rail yard. It was found that the rail yard was releasing levels of air pollution that violated the Clean Air Act. This data was then used to build a case which resulted in a settlement to help the community.4 Building a movementIf there is no local community organization dedicated to environmental justice issues, you will need to talk to your fellow community members to get organized. Begin by educating residents about what you have discovered. You’ve identified an issue, now you must share this knowledge. You and your fellow residents can then figure out what a better community might look like. Some call this a community platform.With you and your fellow residents educated,start looking for elected officials to be allies.Your community platform may include recommendations from the study produced by your college or university partner. This might include things like buffer zones between pollution sources and residents, a freeze on new pollution-causing development, and planting trees to absorb air pollutants.With you and your fellow residents educated, you can start looking for elected officials and other community allies. Consider beginning with your city council members. Call their offices and ask for meetings. When you show up with informed community members who are concerned about their health, you can find yourself at the table when decisions are being made.It’s a marathon, not a sprintRemember that change does not always come quickly. The key to community improvement is persistence. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. And when you feel like your neighbors and you are too small to take on large corporate interests, recall what Margaret Mead said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”5","

Many times, a movement for better neighborhood air quality begins with a concerned individual. Will you be the next person who makes a difference? It’s not as difficult as you might think. Thankfully, there are many models for success to learn from.

Defining your neighborhood’s air quality problem

If you suspect air pollution in your neighborhood is an issue, find out if there is any current data about local pollution levels. There are public air quality monitoring stations across the U.S. and the world. However, many places still lack the data required to track air pollution.

Local residents are a valuable resourcefor identifying pollution sources.

Start by looking at air pollution monitoring websites. For example, IQAiroffers free air quality data for more than 80,000 locations around the world.You may require air quality data for an exact location, in which case you will need an air quality monitor. By gathering data, you can help pinpoint where air pollution is originating. You can even help your neighbors by registering an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor as a designated public outdoor station. Learn more about joining the global network of air quality data here.

Can pollution information in government databases be trusted?

Government air monitoring stations generally use reliable equipment and are highly accurate. However, air pollution measurements can vary within relatively short distances, due to the location of the station, prevailing winds, and proximity to air pollution sources. Sometimes, it’s necessary to take action in gathering accurate and complete data sets. For example, the Los Angeles Collaborative for Health and Justice conducted a research project called Ground Truthing. The community-based, participatory project sought to fill in data gaps they felt resulted in an inaccurate picture of the environmental exposure and health risks many neighborhoods face. Local community residents were guided by research professionals in gathering data about toxic emitters.

Key findings include:

\nThere are many more hazardous facilities near residential neighborhoods than recorded in state and federal government databases.
\nState databases contain significant location errors of emission sources.
\nParticulate matter (PM2.5) levels regularly exceed the regulatory standards set by law.

These are just a few of gaps in data that the collaborative project identified. Local residents are indeed a valuable source for identifying pollution sources and monitoring pollution levels.¹

How a “citizen scientist” took action

A resident of Tonawanda, N.Y. took action where regulators failed. After years of foul-smelling air from a nearby industrial plant, inaction from New York state officials, and declining personal health, a former mail carrier felt no choice but to become a citizen scientist and activist.

A former mail carrier felt no choice but to become a citizen scientist and activist.

A small group of Tonawanda residents started using buckets and hand-held vacuums to take air samples. They placed plastic bags inside buckets, connected a hose to the bag, and used either camping pumps or small electric vacuums to collect air samples. The samples were taken to state and independent labs for evaluation and showed extremely high levels of benzene, a known human carcinogen. This information was the catalyst for state regulators to formally blame Tonawanda Coke for releasing high levels of benzene and other dangerous chemicals in violation of the Clean Air Act.²

There is now a “Bucket Brigade” movement of citizen scientists who are taking their neighborhood air quality monitoring into their own hands. The buckets are now an EPA-approved way for residents to take air samples and have them tested for over 100 air pollutants.³

Talk to your neighbors

Once you have a case built for the source of pollution, find out if the pollution is adversely affecting local residents. You can do this by holding a public community forum inviting people to share their stories, or by going door-to-door and asking residents to fill out a health survey. You can also approach a university to share your concerns and invite them to do a study.

For an example of how to this process can work, you can look to the environmental organization Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ). They were able to win a settlement in an environmental justice case using the following steps:

\nPartnered with a local university to do a health study of residents living near a rail yard suspected of causing sickness.
\nData revealed that residents near the rail yard experienced elevated rates of cancers, and that the children at a nearby elementary school had a shocking 47 percent asthma rate.
\nA follow-up study measured pollution levels from the rail yard.
\nIt was found that the rail yard was releasing levels of air pollution that violated the Clean Air Act.
\nThis data was then used to build a case which resulted in a settlement to help the community.⁴\n

Building a movement

If there is no local community organization dedicated to environmental justice issues, you will need to talk to your fellow community members to get organized. Begin by educating residents about what you have discovered. You’ve identified an issue, now you must share this knowledge. You and your fellow residents can then figure out what a better community might look like. Some call this a community platform.

With you and your fellow residents educated,start looking for elected officials to be allies.

Your community platform may include recommendations from the study produced by your college or university partner. This might include things like buffer zones between pollution sources and residents, a freeze on new pollution-causing development, and planting trees to absorb air pollutants.

With you and your fellow residents educated, you can start looking for elected officials and other community allies. Consider beginning with your city council members. Call their offices and ask for meetings. When you show up with informed community members who are concerned about their health, you can find yourself at the table when decisions are being made.

It’s a marathon, not a sprint

Remember that change does not always come quickly. The key to community improvement is persistence. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. And when you feel like your neighbors and you are too small to take on large corporate interests, recall what Margaret Mead said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”⁵

","actions-for-better-neighborhood-air-quality","gid://shopify/Article/564862386254","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/actions-for-better-neighborhood-air-quality","2018-02-28T18:55:24Z",[715,897],"How to improve air quality in your neighborhood",{"_10":1338,"_202":1339,"_205":1340,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269182173262","A volunteer speaking with her neighbors about air quality.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/180306_neighborhood_air_quality_ae12180c-1418-4aa0-b8cb-90ee73018717.jpg?v=1748947194",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1342,"_1139":1343,"_1154":43,"_1156":43,"_1158":1344,"_1160":1345,"_1008":1346,"_10":1347,"_1164":1348,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1349,"_635":1350,"_599":1352,"_1171":1353},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Yewki Tomita is a world-class professional gymnast with more than five first-place individual and team wins in national and international gymnastic competitions. And Tomita suffers from a wide variety of allergies. Like many professional athletes, Tomita began practicing a wholesome lifestyle including a healthy diet and regimented exercise program at an early age. Living and training in Arizona and Colorado, air quality was never a concern to him, so Tomita's allergies were treated as more of an annoyance than a health issue. That was until he went to compete at the Beijing World Championships. “Beijing was a very difficult experience for me,” Tomita expressed. “I got sick, very sick, over there, mostly in part to the poor air quality.” Upon his return, Tomita sought out an air purification system that would minimize his exposure to airborne particulates, run quietly while he slept, and be portable enough to meet his travel needs. After online research and recommendations from his directors at the Olympic Training Center, Tomita identified the HealthPro® Plus as the best filtration system on the market. “My experience with the HealthPro Plus has been amazing,” said Tomita. “More than anything, the unit helps with sleep, and sleep is crucial to any athlete's well-being.” The pure air emitted from the HealthPro Plus has provided additional benefits for Tomita, and he offers this testimonial, “After using the unit, my performance has improved remarkably.”","

Yewki Tomita is a world-class professional gymnast with more than five first-place individual and team wins in national and international gymnastic competitions. And Tomita suffers from a wide variety of allergies. Like many professional athletes, Tomita began practicing a wholesome lifestyle including a healthy diet and regimented exercise program at an early age. Living and training in Arizona and Colorado, air quality was never a concern to him, so Tomita's allergies were treated as more of an annoyance than a health issue. That was until he went to compete at the Beijing World Championships. “Beijing was a very difficult experience for me,” Tomita expressed. “I got sick, very sick, over there, mostly in part to the poor air quality.”

Upon his return, Tomita sought out an air purification system that would minimize his exposure to airborne particulates, run quietly while he slept, and be portable enough to meet his travel needs. After online research and recommendations from his directors at the Olympic Training Center, Tomita identified the HealthPro® Plus as the best filtration system on the market. “My experience with the HealthPro Plus has been amazing,” said Tomita. “More than anything, the unit helps with sleep, and sleep is crucial to any athlete's well-being.” The pure air emitted from the HealthPro Plus has provided additional benefits for Tomita, and he offers this testimonial, “After using the unit, my performance has improved remarkably.”

","gymnast-yewki-tomita-my-performance-has-improved-remarkably","gid://shopify/Article/564864286798","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/gymnast-yewki-tomita-my-performance-has-improved-remarkably","2016-09-19T20:49:14Z",[1351,897],"Allergies and Asthma","Gymnast Yewki Tomita: \"My performance has improved remarkably\"",{"_10":1354,"_202":1355,"_205":1356,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269181321294","gymnast performing","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/210_Gymnast_banner_2231500f-643e-44c2-aba6-c8887088286a.jpg?v=1748945143","pageInfo",{"_1359":71,"_1360":71,"_1361":1362,"_1363":1364},"hasPreviousPage","hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo1NjQ4NjQyODY3OTgsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE0NzQzMTgxNTQwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6MzV9","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2MzM2Njc0NTMwMDYsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE2MTY4ODYwMDAwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6MjR9","selectedTag",{"_599":1367,"_1006":43,"_205":1010,"_1011":1368},"Air Quality News - Success Stories",{"_1013":1014,"_1015":1369,"_12":1367,"_1006":43,"_205":1010},"Blog","categorizedArticles",{"_1372":1373,"_1411":1412,"_1515":1516,"_1582":1583,"_1653":1654},"featured",[1374,1394],{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1375,"_1139":1376,"_1154":1377,"_1156":1378,"_1158":1379,"_1160":1380,"_1008":1381,"_10":1382,"_1164":1383,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1384,"_635":1385,"_599":1387,"_1171":1388},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"CADR measures how quickly an air purifier cleans the air. Learn how it works—and why it should be considered alongside long-term performance metrics like CCM.","

CADR measures how quickly an air purifier cleans the air. Learn how it works—and why it should be considered alongside long-term performance metrics like CCM.

","When choosing an air purifier, one of the first numbers people encounter is CADR—but it is also one of the most misunderstood. CADR, or Clean Air Delivery Rate, measures how quickly an air purifier can clean the air in a space. It is often used to compare different models, but on its own it does not reflect how an air purifier performs in real-world conditions over time. CADR focuses on short-term performance—how quickly clean air is delivered under specific conditions—rather than how long that performance can be maintained. Understanding how CADR works—and how it differs from other metrics like CCM—can make it easier to choose a system that matches both the size of a space and how performance will hold over time. What CADR actually measures CADR reflects how quickly an air purifier removes particles from the air. It combines airflow and filter efficiency to estimate how fast clean air is delivered within a given space. In practical terms, this means CADR indicates how quickly airborne particles can be cleared—but not how consistently that performance will hold over time. CADR measures the removal rate of airborne particles as small as 0.09 microns to as large as 11 microns (1)(2). It reflects how filter efficiency and airflow interact within a given space, but is limited to measuring performance speed rather than long-term usage. CADR is often presented alongside CCM, but the two metrics reflect very different aspects of performance. CADR focuses on how quickly clean air is delivered, while CCM indicates how much pollution a system can handle before its performance begins to decline. The limitation of CADR: Speed vs long-term performance While CADR is commonly used to compare how quickly an air purifier works, it does not indicate how performance will hold over time. As filters load with particles and gases, airflow and efficiency can change—something CADR does not capture. Many air purifiers perform well when new but lose effectiveness as filters become saturated. As a result, CADR alone gives an incomplete—or even misleading—picture of how an air purifier will perform outside of controlled test conditions. CADR vs CCM: Speed vs endurance While CADR measures speed, CCM focuses on endurance. It tracks how much pollution an air purifier can remove over time before its performance begins to decline. CCM ratings are grouped into standardized tiers for particulate matter (P) and formaldehyde (F), which indicate how much pollution an air purifier can handle before its performance begins to decline. Higher tiers represent greater long-term filtration capacity and more stable performance over time. Particulate Matter Formaldehyde P1 3000 – 5000 mg F1 300 – 600 mg P2 5000 – 8000 mg F2 600 – 1000 mg P3 8000 – 12000 mg F3 1000 – 1500 mg P4 > 12,000 mg F4 > 1500 mg In practical terms, higher P and F values indicate that an air purifier can handle more pollution before its performance drops—making these tiers a useful way to compare long-term effectiveness. For example, a system rated at P4 can remove significantly more particulate matter before performance declines than one rated at P1. Compared to CADR, CCM reflects long-term filtration performance rather than short-term speed. In practice, CADR reflects how quickly an air purifier performs under initial test conditions, while CCM provides clearer insight into how that performance holds up over time. How to evaluate air purifier performance in real-world use Understanding how an air purifier is tested can help clarify how it will perform in real-world use. If a system is too small for a space, or if performance declines over time, airborne particles may remain present. Systems with higher CCM levels are more likely to maintain consistent performance over time, which can be especially relevant for sensitive or allergy-prone groups. CCM values reflect long-term filtration capacity. Some systems are designed to maintain performance over extended use, which is reflected in higher CCM values. Some air purifiers are designed to perform strongly across both metrics. For example, systems using high-efficiency filtration, such as IQAir systems using HyperHEPA filtration, are designed to capture ultrafine particles efficiently while maintaining long-term performance. Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between CADR and CCM? CADR measures initial short-term performance quality, calculating the rate or speed of which airborne particulate matter is cleaned and recycled. CCM measures long-term performance longevity, calculating the sheer amount of pollutant particles that are collected by an air purifier before the device begins to lose efficiency. The key difference is the short-term versus long-term measurements. What is more important to consider, CADR or CCM? While both CADR and CCM are important to consider in general, CCM provides a clearer understanding of air purifier quality and filtration over time. When choosing an air purifier, CCM values give a direct ranking on which system is going to last the longest while maintaining powerful filtration. Do all air purifiers have CADR and/or CCM ratings? Most air purifiers should have either a CADR or CCM rating listed; however, at-home calculations and trial runs can be performed to calculate the values. How is CADR measured by room? A CADR rating should be 2/3 the value of the room’s square footage that the air purifier is housed in. For instance, if a room is 180 square feet, then an air purifier with a CADR of 120 should be used. Conclusion CADR and CCM measure different aspects of air purifier performance: speed and endurance. Looking beyond CADR to include metrics like CCM provides a clearer picture of how an air purifier will perform—not just when it is new, but over time.","

When choosing an air purifier, one of the first numbers people encounter is CADR—but it is also one of the most misunderstood.

CADR, or Clean Air Delivery Rate, measures how quickly an air purifier can clean the air in a space. It is often used to compare different models, but on its own it does not reflect how an air purifier performs in real-world conditions over time. CADR focuses on short-term performance—how quickly clean air is delivered under specific conditions—rather than how long that performance can be maintained.

Understanding how CADR works—and how it differs from other metrics like CCM—can make it easier to choose a system that matches both the size of a space and how performance will hold over time.

What CADR actually measures

CADR reflects how quickly an air purifier removes particles from the air. It combines airflow and filter efficiency to estimate how fast clean air is delivered within a given space.

In practical terms, this means CADR indicates how quickly airborne particles can be cleared—but not how consistently that performance will hold over time.

CADR measures the removal rate of airborne particles as small as 0.09 microns to as large as 11 microns (1)(2). It reflects how filter efficiency and airflow interact within a given space, but is limited to measuring performance speed rather than long-term usage.

CADR is often presented alongside CCM, but the two metrics reflect very different aspects of performance. CADR focuses on how quickly clean air is delivered, while CCM indicates how much pollution a system can handle before its performance begins to decline.

The limitation of CADR: Speed vs long-term performance

While CADR is commonly used to compare how quickly an air purifier works, it does not indicate how performance will hold over time.

As filters load with particles and gases, airflow and efficiency can change—something CADR does not capture. Many air purifiers perform well when new but lose effectiveness as filters become saturated.

As a result, CADR alone gives an incomplete—or even misleading—picture of how an air purifier will perform outside of controlled test conditions.

CADR vs CCM: Speed vs endurance

While CADR measures speed, CCM focuses on endurance. It tracks how much pollution an air purifier can remove over time before its performance begins to decline.

CCM ratings are grouped into standardized tiers for particulate matter (P) and formaldehyde (F), which indicate how much pollution an air purifier can handle before its performance begins to decline. Higher tiers represent greater long-term filtration capacity and more stable performance over time.

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Particulate Matter	Formaldehyde
P1	3000 – 5000 mg	F1	300 – 600 mg
P2	5000 – 8000 mg	F2	600 – 1000 mg
P3	8000 – 12000 mg	F3	1000 – 1500 mg
P4	> 12,000 mg	F4	> 1500 mg

In practical terms, higher P and F values indicate that an air purifier can handle more pollution before its performance drops—making these tiers a useful way to compare long-term effectiveness. For example, a system rated at P4 can remove significantly more particulate matter before performance declines than one rated at P1.

Compared to CADR, CCM reflects long-term filtration performance rather than short-term speed.

In practice, CADR reflects how quickly an air purifier performs under initial test conditions, while CCM provides clearer insight into how that performance holds up over time.

How to evaluate air purifier performance in real-world use

Understanding how an air purifier is tested can help clarify how it will perform in real-world use. If a system is too small for a space, or if performance declines over time, airborne particles may remain present. Systems with higher CCM levels are more likely to maintain consistent performance over time, which can be especially relevant for sensitive or allergy-prone groups.

CCM values reflect long-term filtration capacity. Some systems are designed to maintain performance over extended use, which is reflected in higher CCM values.

Some air purifiers are designed to perform strongly across both metrics. For example, systems using high-efficiency filtration, such as IQAir systems using HyperHEPA filtration, are designed to capture ultrafine particles efficiently while maintaining long-term performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CADR and CCM?

CADR measures initial short-term performance quality, calculating the rate or speed of which airborne particulate matter is cleaned and recycled. CCM measures long-term performance longevity, calculating the sheer amount of pollutant particles that are collected by an air purifier before the device begins to lose efficiency. The key difference is the short-term versus long-term measurements.

What is more important to consider, CADR or CCM?

While both CADR and CCM are important to consider in general, CCM provides a clearer understanding of air purifier quality and filtration over time. When choosing an air purifier, CCM values give a direct ranking on which system is going to last the longest while maintaining powerful filtration.

Do all air purifiers have CADR and/or CCM ratings?

Most air purifiers should have either a CADR or CCM rating listed; however, at-home calculations and trial runs can be performed to calculate the values.

How is CADR measured by room?

A CADR rating should be 2/3 the value of the room’s square footage that the air purifier is housed in. For instance, if a room is 180 square feet, then an air purifier with a CADR of 120 should be used.

Conclusion

CADR and CCM measure different aspects of air purifier performance: speed and endurance. Looking beyond CADR to include metrics like CCM provides a clearer picture of how an air purifier will perform—not just when it is new, but over time.

","what-cadr-means-and-how-to-choose-an-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/641380089934","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/what-cadr-means-and-how-to-choose-an-air-purifier","2026-05-12T15:00:00Z",[912,1386],"Featured articles","What CADR means and how to choose an air purifier",{"_10":1389,"_202":1390,"_205":1391,"_207":1392,"_203":1393},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273257267278","Air purifier next to fireplace","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Article_WhatsACADRRating_D_b41be4f3-a6e7-4b6d-aedc-ffabb0a0c40d.jpg?v=1778599072",839,674,{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1395,"_1139":1396,"_1154":1397,"_1156":1398,"_1158":1399,"_1160":1400,"_1008":1401,"_10":1402,"_1164":1403,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1404,"_635":1405,"_599":1406,"_1171":1407},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"See how EarthMuseum is teaching the next generation how to monitor air quality and address air pollution through data.","

See how EarthMuseum is teaching the next generation how to monitor air quality and address air pollution through data.

","“Our program gives students a way to work with real-world data—so they’re not just learning about air quality, they’re actually seeing it and responding to it,” said Janet Owen, Founder and Director of EarthMuseum Learn. Through its collaboration with IQAir, EarthMuseum Learn, a not-for-profit focused on global, cross-curricular education, is piloting Air We Breathe—an air quality learning and monitoring program that helps students understand pollution in context and think more critically about what it means (1). As part of a free wider learning program, schools use IQAir’s AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitors and AirVisual dashboard to measure the air around them and publish an analysis of those readings to a shared collaboration platform. Instead of relying on static examples, students work with live data—conditions that change throughout the day and can be followed over time. For many, it’s the first time air pollution is something they can track directly using data generated by their own school. Rather than focusing on a single location or data contributor, the program is designed to connect many, linking classrooms through a common learning framework and shared data. Learning that starts with context Developed with educators and subject experts, the Air We Breathe program is designed for students ages 7 to 14. It’s free for schools worldwide and built to fit into existing curricula. The program moves between history, science, and present-day air quality. Lessons explore how air pollution has developed over time, from early human activity through the industrial period and into the present. They also look at how air quality connects to health, climate, and the way communities function, with an opportunity to think about local innovation and action. That shared structure makes it possible for schools in different locations to engage with the same material at the same time, creating a common starting point for comparison. It’s not about delivering a fixed set of facts. Students are encouraged to question, discuss, and form their own views. As Owen put it, the program is built around “the ability to have conversations about what air quality and air pollution are, and what they mean in a worldview context.” That foundation becomes more meaningful once students begin working with real-world data. Working with data from their own environment Each school uses an IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor to measure local air quality. Those readings feed into the IQAir platform, where they can be accessed through the AirVisual app, desktop dashboard, and global air quality map. Students aren’t just checking the numbers. They follow how readings change over time, compare patterns across different days, and begin asking why those changes happen. Owen described it simply: students are “playing with the data, looking at the data, comparing their data with others.” For EarthMuseum Learn, the appeal of the system was not just the data itself, but how easily it could be used across different classrooms globally. Once tested, Owen said, “it was pretty straightforward to set up,” and “very communicative in terms of the data.” The platform also places those readings alongside a much wider network of stations, contributed by governments, organizations, and individuals around the world. That context makes it easier to see how local conditions fit into a broader picture. In practice, each school becomes one point within a much larger network of observations. Comparing across locations Students have the ability to look at their own data alongside readings from partner schools in other regions, from nearby cities to entirely different countries. Seeing those differences tends to raise immediate questions. Owen said students begin to ask, “Why are levels higher in one place than another? What local factors might be involved? How do infrastructure, geography, or policy play a role?” For the program, that exchange is central. It’s about “that ability to compare and contrast, to talk, to discuss, and to understand what’s happening in different places.” What starts as a local exercise becomes something shared, and something that allows students to see their community in a global context. Understanding how air quality data is created Alongside real-time monitoring, students take manual readings at set intervals, recording and sharing those observations through EarthMuseum Learn’s developing collaborative platform. For many, this is their first experience working with environmental data in a structured way. It makes them more comfortable reading the numbers and talking about what those numbers mean. Because those observations are shared across schools, they don’t stay local—they contribute to a broader, collective view. From observation to response Students are encouraged to consider what their observations mean in practical terms—for themselves, for their school, and for the wider community. Sometimes that may lead to small changes in the school environment. In other cases, it can develop into campaigns or presentations shared with local decision-makers. Owen said, “Students see that data isn’t just something on a screen, or something collected in a vacuum. They see how it’s interpreted—and how it can help make an impact in their world.” That thinking is shaped not only by their own data, but by what they see happening in other schools. As Owen framed it: “What does that mean for me individually? What does that mean for us as a school? What does that mean for the community?” Teachers involved in early pilots have already seen the conversation extend beyond the classroom. Students bring the subject home with them, and it starts to shape discussions with teachers, parents, and peers. “There’s a real appetite… to have those conversations—not just with each other, but with teachers and with parents,” Owen said. Building a connected model Work with schools in the UK now includes international partners, with classrooms in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia beginning to take part. Additional school networks are in discussion. As more schools install monitors and publish data, the project is gradually forming a distributed network of classrooms, each contributing its own data and perspective. Because the same monitoring and platform infrastructure can be used across regions, schools are able to participate in a shared system without needing to adapt the technical setup each time. Over time, individual data points begin to form a connected system across schools. For EarthMuseum Learn, the goal is not simply to grow, but to build something that keeps those classrooms connected rather than operating in isolation. Conclusion EarthMuseum Learn offers one way to bring environmental learning closer to students’ daily experience. By combining real-time monitoring with classroom teaching and global data sharing, the program gives students a way to follow air quality through observation, comparison, and discussion. It also suggests a different way of teaching these topics—one where classrooms are connected through shared data and analysis instead of working in isolation.","

“Our program gives students a way to work with real-world data—so they’re not just learning about air quality, they’re actually seeing it and responding to it,” said Janet Owen, Founder and Director of EarthMuseum Learn.

Through its collaboration with IQAir, EarthMuseum Learn, a not-for-profit focused on global, cross-curricular education, is piloting Air We Breathe—an air quality learning and monitoring program that helps students understand pollution in context and think more critically about what it means (1).

As part of a free wider learning program, schools use IQAir’s AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitors and AirVisual dashboard to measure the air around them and publish an analysis of those readings to a shared collaboration platform. Instead of relying on static examples, students work with live data—conditions that change throughout the day and can be followed over time.

For many, it’s the first time air pollution is something they can track directly using data generated by their own school.

Rather than focusing on a single location or data contributor, the program is designed to connect many, linking classrooms through a common learning framework and shared data.

Learning that starts with context

Developed with educators and subject experts, the Air We Breathe program is designed for students ages 7 to 14. It’s free for schools worldwide and built to fit into existing curricula.

The program moves between history, science, and present-day air quality. Lessons explore how air pollution has developed over time, from early human activity through the industrial period and into the present. They also look at how air quality connects to health, climate, and the way communities function, with an opportunity to think about local innovation and action. That shared structure makes it possible for schools in different locations to engage with the same material at the same time, creating a common starting point for comparison.

It’s not about delivering a fixed set of facts. Students are encouraged to question, discuss, and form their own views. As Owen put it, the program is built around “the ability to have conversations about what air quality and air pollution are, and what they mean in a worldview context.”

That foundation becomes more meaningful once students begin working with real-world data.

Working with data from their own environment

Each school uses an IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor to measure local air quality. Those readings feed into the IQAir platform, where they can be accessed through the AirVisual app, desktop dashboard, and global air quality map.

Students aren’t just checking the numbers. They follow how readings change over time, compare patterns across different days, and begin asking why those changes happen.

Owen described it simply: students are “playing with the data, looking at the data, comparing their data with others.”

For EarthMuseum Learn, the appeal of the system was not just the data itself, but how easily it could be used across different classrooms globally. Once tested, Owen said, “it was pretty straightforward to set up,” and “very communicative in terms of the data.”

The platform also places those readings alongside a much wider network of stations, contributed by governments, organizations, and individuals around the world. That context makes it easier to see how local conditions fit into a broader picture. In practice, each school becomes one point within a much larger network of observations.

Comparing across locations

Students have the ability to look at their own data alongside readings from partner schools in other regions, from nearby cities to entirely different countries.

Seeing those differences tends to raise immediate questions. Owen said students begin to ask, “Why are levels higher in one place than another? What local factors might be involved? How do infrastructure, geography, or policy play a role?” For the program, that exchange is central. It’s about “that ability to compare and contrast, to talk, to discuss, and to understand what’s happening in different places.”

What starts as a local exercise becomes something shared, and something that allows students to see their community in a global context.

Understanding how air quality data is created

Alongside real-time monitoring, students take manual readings at set intervals, recording and sharing those observations through EarthMuseum Learn’s developing collaborative platform.

For many, this is their first experience working with environmental data in a structured way. It makes them more comfortable reading the numbers and talking about what those numbers mean.

Because those observations are shared across schools, they don’t stay local—they contribute to a broader, collective view.

From observation to response

Students are encouraged to consider what their observations mean in practical terms—for themselves, for their school, and for the wider community. Sometimes that may lead to small changes in the school environment. In other cases, it can develop into campaigns or presentations shared with local decision-makers. Owen said, “Students see that data isn’t just something on a screen, or something collected in a vacuum. They see how it’s interpreted—and how it can help make an impact in their world.”

That thinking is shaped not only by their own data, but by what they see happening in other schools.

As Owen framed it: “What does that mean for me individually? What does that mean for us as a school? What does that mean for the community?”

Teachers involved in early pilots have already seen the conversation extend beyond the classroom. Students bring the subject home with them, and it starts to shape discussions with teachers, parents, and peers.

“There’s a real appetite… to have those conversations—not just with each other, but with teachers and with parents,” Owen said.

Building a connected model

Work with schools in the UK now includes international partners, with classrooms in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia beginning to take part. Additional school networks are in discussion.

As more schools install monitors and publish data, the project is gradually forming a distributed network of classrooms, each contributing its own data and perspective.

Because the same monitoring and platform infrastructure can be used across regions, schools are able to participate in a shared system without needing to adapt the technical setup each time. Over time, individual data points begin to form a connected system across schools.

For EarthMuseum Learn, the goal is not simply to grow, but to build something that keeps those classrooms connected rather than operating in isolation.

Conclusion

EarthMuseum Learn offers one way to bring environmental learning closer to students’ daily experience.

By combining real-time monitoring with classroom teaching and global data sharing, the program gives students a way to follow air quality through observation, comparison, and discussion. It also suggests a different way of teaching these topics—one where classrooms are connected through shared data and analysis instead of working in isolation.

","earthmuseum-learn-connects-classrooms-through-air-quality-data","gid://shopify/Article/641496842318","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/earthmuseum-learn-connects-classrooms-through-air-quality-data","2026-05-11T15:00:00Z",[705,1386,710],"Revealing the Invisible: EarthMuseum Learn connects classrooms through air quality data",{"_10":1408,"_202":1409,"_205":1410,"_207":1392,"_203":1393},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273242423374","Students participating in an EarthMuseum Learn classroom activity.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Article_EarthMuseum_D.jpg?v=1778512778","latest",[1413,1431,1449,1465,1482,1498],{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1414,"_1139":1415,"_1154":1416,"_1156":1417,"_1158":1418,"_1160":1419,"_1008":1420,"_10":1421,"_1164":1422,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1423,"_635":1424,"_599":1426,"_1171":1427},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Find out more about the Pineland Road Fire and its impact on communities in southern Georgia.","

Find out more about the Pineland Road Fire and its impact on communities in southern Georgia.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of May 16, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire is burning in southern Georgia across Clinch and Echols counties. The fire is located approximately 5 miles west of Colon Road and Mud Camp Pineland Road, near Highway 441 and close to the Suwannee River at the boundary between the two counties (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Pineland Road Fire include: Colon Echols County Fargo Highway area Needmore Fruitland Regions near Headlight Road Regions near Tiger Lake Road Regions near Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road What is the current containment status of the Pineland Road Fire? As of May 16, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire has burned approximately 32,031 acres and is 90% contained. Firefighting crews continue suppression efforts under challenging conditions, including severe drought, low humidity, strong winds, and difficult swampy terrain. Full containment is not expected until late May (2). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? A mandatory evacuation order is in effect for all of Fruitland in Echols County. Residents are urged to leave immediately, take essentials, pets, and medications, and follow official exit routes and instructions. Evacuation alerts remain in place for residents near Highway 441 between Headlight Road and Tiger Lake Road, as well as areas east of Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road. Officials advise residents not to return to evacuated areas until authorities declare it safe. Evacuation shelters have been opened, including Venture of Faith Camp in Lake Park and Camp Rock in Valdosta (3). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of May 16, 2026, this fire is 90% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 16, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire is burning in southern Georgia across Clinch and Echols counties.

The fire is located approximately 5 miles west of Colon Road and Mud Camp Pineland Road, near Highway 441 and close to the Suwannee River at the boundary between the two counties (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Pineland Road Fire include:

Colon
Echols County
Fargo Highway area
Needmore
Fruitland
Regions near Headlight Road
Regions near Tiger Lake Road
Regions near Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road

What is the current containment status of the Pineland Road Fire?

As of May 16, 2026, the Pineland Road Fire has burned approximately 32,031 acres and is 90% contained.

Firefighting crews continue suppression efforts under challenging conditions, including severe drought, low humidity, strong winds, and difficult swampy terrain. Full containment is not expected until late May (2).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

A mandatory evacuation order is in effect for all of Fruitland in Echols County. Residents are urged to leave immediately, take essentials, pets, and medications, and follow official exit routes and instructions.

Evacuation alerts remain in place for residents near Highway 441 between Headlight Road and Tiger Lake Road, as well as areas east of Will Rewis Road and Barnes Road. Officials advise residents not to return to evacuated areas until authorities declare it safe.

Evacuation shelters have been opened, including Venture of Faith Camp in Lake Park and Camp Rock in Valdosta (3).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of May 16, 2026, this fire is 90% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-pineland-road-fire-georgia","gid://shopify/Article/641403387982","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-pineland-road-fire-georgia","2026-05-16T07:10:07Z",[1284,700,1425,725],"Wildfire","Wildfire Map Spotlight: Pineland Road Fire, Georgia",{"_10":1428,"_202":1429,"_205":1430,"_207":1392,"_203":1393},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273308549198","Wildfire engulfs a dense forest","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire9Desktop_63861816-5125-443c-88a3-2eb9844139ed.jpg?v=1778915412",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1432,"_1139":1433,"_1154":1434,"_1156":1435,"_1158":1436,"_1160":1437,"_1008":1438,"_10":1439,"_1164":1440,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1441,"_635":1442,"_599":1443,"_1171":1444},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Find out more about the ongoing Mayon Volcano eruption in Albay Province, including affected communities, evacuation measures, and volcanic activity updates.","

Find out more about the ongoing Mayon Volcano eruption in Albay Province, including affected communities, evacuation measures, and volcanic activity updates.

","What is the name and location of the volcano? As of May 15, 2026, Mayon Volcano is actively erupting in Albay Province in the Bicol Region of southern Luzon, Philippines. Located approximately 330 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Albay, Mayon Volcano is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent volcanic eruptions and seismic activity. The volcano rises prominently near the municipalities of Camalig and Guinobatan, and the city of Ligao. It is internationally recognized for its remarkably symmetrical cone shape, making it one of the Philippines’ most iconic natural landmarks. Authorities continue to closely monitor volcanic activity and potential hazards within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone surrounding the crater. (1) Which cities or areas are affected by the volcano? The following areas have been affected by ongoing volcanic activity from Mayon Volcano: Albay Province Basud Bonga Camalig Cagsawa Guinobatan Legazpi Ligao City Mi-isi Gully Misi At least 124 barangays across Albay Province have been affected by ashfall, lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, and volcanic activity. What is the current containment status of the volcano? As of May 15, 2026, Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3 as volcanic unrest continues across the region. PHIVOLCS reported that the volcano has been undergoing an effusive eruption for 131 consecutive days, producing continuous lava flows, collapse-fed pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, volcanic earthquakes, and minor strombolian activity at the summit crater. Lava flows have extended up to 3.8 kilometers along Basud Gully, 3.2 kilometers along Bonga Gully, and 1.6 kilometers along Mi-isi Gully (2). Monitoring data also recorded 71 volcanic earthquakes, 421 rockfall events, sulfur dioxide emissions averaging 889 tonnes per day, and ongoing ground deformation around the volcano. Authorities continue enforcing restrictions within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone because hazardous eruptions, pyroclastic flows, and sudden explosive activity remain possible (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities continue to enforce Alert Level 3 at Mayon Volcano and prohibit entry into the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone surrounding the crater. PHIVOLCS has warned residents and visitors to remain outside restricted zones because lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, ashfall, and sudden explosive eruptions may occur without warning. More than 287,000 people across the Philippines remain displaced or are sheltering due to the prolonged eruption. Evacuation centers across Albay Province continue housing thousands of families as emergency response teams coordinate relief operations, distribute protective supplies, and monitor conditions in affected communities. Authorities are also preparing for additional risks associated with the approaching rainy season, including lahars and flooding in communities surrounding the volcano. How can I protect myself from volcanic smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from a volcanic eruption. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter volcanic smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.","

What is the name and location of the volcano?

As of May 15, 2026, Mayon Volcano is actively erupting in Albay Province in the Bicol Region of southern Luzon, Philippines.

Located approximately 330 kilometers southeast of Manila in the province of Albay, Mayon Volcano is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent volcanic eruptions and seismic activity.

The volcano rises prominently near the municipalities of Camalig and Guinobatan, and the city of Ligao. It is internationally recognized for its remarkably symmetrical cone shape, making it one of the Philippines’ most iconic natural landmarks.

Authorities continue to closely monitor volcanic activity and potential hazards within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone surrounding the crater. (1)

Which cities or areas are affected by the volcano?

The following areas have been affected by ongoing volcanic activity from Mayon Volcano:

Albay Province
Basud
Bonga
Camalig
Cagsawa
Guinobatan
Legazpi
Ligao City
Mi-isi Gully
Misi

At least 124 barangays across Albay Province have been affected by ashfall, lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, and volcanic activity.

What is the current containment status of the volcano?

As of May 15, 2026, Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3 as volcanic unrest continues across the region.

PHIVOLCS reported that the volcano has been undergoing an effusive eruption for 131 consecutive days, producing continuous lava flows, collapse-fed pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, volcanic earthquakes, and minor strombolian activity at the summit crater.

Lava flows have extended up to 3.8 kilometers along Basud Gully, 3.2 kilometers along Bonga Gully, and 1.6 kilometers along Mi-isi Gully (2).

Monitoring data also recorded 71 volcanic earthquakes, 421 rockfall events, sulfur dioxide emissions averaging 889 tonnes per day, and ongoing ground deformation around the volcano.

Authorities continue enforcing restrictions within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone because hazardous eruptions, pyroclastic flows, and sudden explosive activity remain possible (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities continue to enforce Alert Level 3 at Mayon Volcano and prohibit entry into the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone surrounding the crater.

PHIVOLCS has warned residents and visitors to remain outside restricted zones because lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, ashfall, and sudden explosive eruptions may occur without warning.

More than 287,000 people across the Philippines remain displaced or are sheltering due to the prolonged eruption.

Evacuation centers across Albay Province continue housing thousands of families as emergency response teams coordinate relief operations, distribute protective supplies, and monitor conditions in affected communities.

Authorities are also preparing for additional risks associated with the approaching rainy season, including lahars and flooding in communities surrounding the volcano.

How can I protect myself from volcanic smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from a volcanic eruption.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter volcanic smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

","volcanic-eruption-map-spotlight-mayon-volcano-philippines-5-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641502150734","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/volcanic-eruption-map-spotlight-mayon-volcano-philippines-5-2026","2026-05-15T12:29:00Z",[1284],"Volcanic Eruption Map Spotlight: Mayon Volcano, Philippines",{"_10":1445,"_202":1446,"_205":1447,"_207":1448,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273302913102","Volcano erupting","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Volcano1Desktop_84495d4b-5996-4e91-83a7-5380673373ce.jpg?v=1778849833",2800,{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1450,"_1139":1451,"_1154":1452,"_1156":1453,"_1158":1454,"_1160":1455,"_1008":1456,"_10":1457,"_1164":1458,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1459,"_635":1460,"_599":1461,"_1171":1462},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"A severe heatwave is affecting India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C) across the region. Learn more about ongoing heat risks and alerts.","

A severe heatwave is affecting India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C) across the region. Learn more about ongoing heat risks and alerts.

","Why is there a heatwave in South Asia? A prolonged heatwave is affecting South Asia, driven by strong high-pressure systems that trap hot air near the surface. Temperatures in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan have soared well above seasonal averages, with some areas approaching or exceeding 45-50 degrees Celsius (113-122 degrees Fahrenheit). The heat arrived earlier than the typical May-June season. High-pressure systems dominate, trapping hot air near the surface like a dome, preventing it from rising and cooling, while sinking air compresses, warms, and blocks clouds, allowing relentless solar heating (1). Climate scientists say meteorological conditions are up to 4°C warmer than in the past, mostly ascribing the increased heat to human-driven climate change. Which cities or areas are affected by the heatwave? Several major cities across South Asia are experiencing extreme heat during this heatwave event, some of the affected include: India: Aheri, Ahmedabad, Agra, Delhi, Dhanbad, Indore, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Kota, Macherla, Nagpur, Nanded, Prayagraj, Raipur, Sambalpur and Solapur. Pakistan: Bahawalpur, Dadu, Hyderabad, Lahore, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sahiwal, Sibi, Sukkur and Turbat. Afghanistan: Lashkar Gah and Mirabad. How long will the heatwave last? The heatwave began in early April 2026 and is expected to persist through the summer months. In India, forecasts indicate above-normal heatwave days throughout the April-June period. The India Meteorological Department chief stated there will be an increased number of heatwave conditions along the east coast states and Gujarat by about four to five days into the month of May (2). Pakistan's meteorological department (PMD) has warned of continued heatwave conditions across central and upper Sindh for several days to weeks. This long-term pattern means temperatures will likely remain above 100°F (38°C) throughout the summer season across much of the region, until the monsoon season provides relief (3). In Afghanistan, summer heat typically lasts from May through September, with temperatures in southern regions like Kandahar reaching 36-43°C (97-109°F). It is possible that a strong El Niño projected for this summer may also contribute to more intense, longer-lasting heat waves and dry weather in South Asia (4). Are there any alerts in place? Multiple heat alerts are active across South Asia. In India, several regions in Gujarat were placed under orange alert status, indicating heatwave conditions and heightened probability of heat-related illnesses (5). The Uttar Pradesh Government issued directives for hospitals to prepare for increased cases of heat-related illnesses and alerted veterinarian teams to ensure adequate shelter and water for livestock. The India Meteorological Department continues issuing warnings for severe heatwave conditions in western regions and along the coast. In Pakistan, the PMD forecast continued heatwave conditions and urged citizens to avoid exposure to direct sunlight during daytime and remain hydrated. Both countries have Heat Action Plans coordinated through disaster management authorities (6). Afghanistan's extreme summer heat typically affects outdoor workers and vulnerable populations, though formal heat-specific alert systems are limited compared to neighboring countries. Residents are advised to stay in air-conditioned spaces, avoid direct sun exposure, drink fluids, and check on elderly individuals. Outdoor workers should reschedule activities to cooler hours.","

Why is there a heatwave in South Asia?

A prolonged heatwave is affecting South Asia, driven by strong high-pressure systems that trap hot air near the surface. Temperatures in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan have soared well above seasonal averages, with some areas approaching or exceeding 45-50 degrees Celsius (113-122 degrees Fahrenheit).

The heat arrived earlier than the typical May-June season. High-pressure systems dominate, trapping hot air near the surface like a dome, preventing it from rising and cooling, while sinking air compresses, warms, and blocks clouds, allowing relentless solar heating (1).

Climate scientists say meteorological conditions are up to 4°C warmer than in the past, mostly ascribing the increased heat to human-driven climate change.

Which cities or areas are affected by the heatwave?

Several major cities across South Asia are experiencing extreme heat during this heatwave event, some of the affected include:

\nIndia: Aheri, Ahmedabad, Agra, Delhi, Dhanbad, Indore, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Kota, Macherla, Nagpur, Nanded, Prayagraj, Raipur, Sambalpur and Solapur.
\nPakistan: Bahawalpur, Dadu, Hyderabad, Lahore, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sahiwal, Sibi, Sukkur and Turbat.
\nAfghanistan: Lashkar Gah and Mirabad.

How long will the heatwave last?

The heatwave began in early April 2026 and is expected to persist through the summer months. In India, forecasts indicate above-normal heatwave days throughout the April-June period. The India Meteorological Department chief stated there will be an increased number of heatwave conditions along the east coast states and Gujarat by about four to five days into the month of May (2).

Pakistan's meteorological department (PMD) has warned of continued heatwave conditions across central and upper Sindh for several days to weeks. This long-term pattern means temperatures will likely remain above 100°F (38°C) throughout the summer season across much of the region, until the monsoon season provides relief (3).

In Afghanistan, summer heat typically lasts from May through September, with temperatures in southern regions like Kandahar reaching 36-43°C (97-109°F).

It is possible that a strong El Niño projected for this summer may also contribute to more intense, longer-lasting heat waves and dry weather in South Asia (4).

Are there any alerts in place?

Multiple heat alerts are active across South Asia. In India, several regions in Gujarat were placed under orange alert status, indicating heatwave conditions and heightened probability of heat-related illnesses (5).

The Uttar Pradesh Government issued directives for hospitals to prepare for increased cases of heat-related illnesses and alerted veterinarian teams to ensure adequate shelter and water for livestock. The India Meteorological Department continues issuing warnings for severe heatwave conditions in western regions and along the coast.

In Pakistan, the PMD forecast continued heatwave conditions and urged citizens to avoid exposure to direct sunlight during daytime and remain hydrated. Both countries have Heat Action Plans coordinated through disaster management authorities (6).

Afghanistan's extreme summer heat typically affects outdoor workers and vulnerable populations, though formal heat-specific alert systems are limited compared to neighboring countries.

Residents are advised to stay in air-conditioned spaces, avoid direct sun exposure, drink fluids, and check on elderly individuals. Outdoor workers should reschedule activities to cooler hours.

","heatwave-map-spotlight-south-asia","gid://shopify/Article/641519910990","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/heatwave-map-spotlight-south-asia","2026-05-15T10:10:08Z",[1284,700],"Heatwave Map Spotlight: South Asia",{"_10":1463,"_202":-5,"_205":1464,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273301831758","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Heatwave2Desktop_72319d33-c66f-4ea3-9921-040edde87edf.jpg?v=1778839816",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1466,"_1139":1467,"_1154":1468,"_1156":1469,"_1158":1470,"_1160":1471,"_1008":1472,"_10":1473,"_1164":1474,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1475,"_635":1476,"_599":1477,"_1171":1478},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Find out more about the Max Road Miramar Fire in southern Florida, including affected communities, smoke impacts, containment progress, and emergency response efforts.","

Find out more about the Max Road Miramar Fire in southern Florida, including affected communities, smoke impacts, containment progress, and emergency response efforts.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of May 14, 2026, the Max Road Miramar Fire burned across parts of Broward and Miami-Dade in southern Florida near North Krome Avenue and Northwest 186th Street. Flames and smoke were also reported west of U.S. 27 near Max's Fish Camp and Airboat Rides. Fire crews from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue, and the Florida Forest Service actively responded to the incident.(1) Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Max Road Miramar Fire included: Broward County Holly Lake community Miami-Dade County Miramar Pembroke Pines West of U.S. 27 What is the current containment status of the wildfire? As of May 14, 2026, the Max Road Miramar Fire burned approximately 11,446 acres and was reported to be 100% contained. (2) Containment efforts continued with support from multiple fire rescue agencies, including helicopters conducting water drops and additional engines and water tankers deployed to the area. Officials continued monitoring smoke and fire conditions as crews worked to prevent further wildfire spread. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Authorities urged residents and commuters to avoid the affected areas while wildfire suppression operations continued. Emergency crews monitored conditions near the Holly Lake community in Pembroke Pines due to nearby smoke and flames. Residents near Max Road reported that fire conditions temporarily blocked the only roadway out of the area, raising concerns about evacuation access. Local residents took precautions by spraying down their homes and trailers before emergency crews arrived. Officials also advised individuals with respiratory conditions to remain indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and use recirculated indoor air settings if smoke impacted their area. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of May 14, 2026, this fire was 100% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 14, 2026, the Max Road Miramar Fire burned across parts of Broward and Miami-Dade in southern Florida near North Krome Avenue and Northwest 186th Street.

Flames and smoke were also reported west of U.S. 27 near Max's Fish Camp and Airboat Rides.

Fire crews from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue, and the Florida Forest Service actively responded to the incident.(1)

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Max Road Miramar Fire included:

Broward County
Holly Lake community
Miami-Dade County
Miramar
Pembroke Pines
West of U.S. 27

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of May 14, 2026, the Max Road Miramar Fire burned approximately 11,446 acres and was reported to be 100% contained. (2)

Containment efforts continued with support from multiple fire rescue agencies, including helicopters conducting water drops and additional engines and water tankers deployed to the area.

Officials continued monitoring smoke and fire conditions as crews worked to prevent further wildfire spread.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities urged residents and commuters to avoid the affected areas while wildfire suppression operations continued.

Emergency crews monitored conditions near the Holly Lake community in Pembroke Pines due to nearby smoke and flames.

Residents near Max Road reported that fire conditions temporarily blocked the only roadway out of the area, raising concerns about evacuation access.

Local residents took precautions by spraying down their homes and trailers before emergency crews arrived. Officials also advised individuals with respiratory conditions to remain indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and use recirculated indoor air settings if smoke impacted their area.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of May 14, 2026, this fire was 100% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-max-road-miramar-fire-florida","gid://shopify/Article/641519091790","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-max-road-miramar-fire-florida","2026-05-14T10:35:24Z",[1284,700,1425,725],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Max Road Miramar Fire, Florida",{"_10":1479,"_202":1480,"_205":1481,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273285513294","Forest wildfire sending thick smoke into the sky","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire6Desktop_a5a29957-bc27-4f10-adf7-dd15b477d1ef.jpg?v=1778754931",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1483,"_1139":1484,"_1154":1485,"_1156":1486,"_1158":1487,"_1160":1488,"_1008":1489,"_10":1490,"_1164":1491,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1492,"_635":1493,"_599":1494,"_1171":1495},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Santiago records AQI above 160, ranking among the world's most polluted cities. Stagnant air, firewood burning, and valley topography are driving this rare spike. Learn more.","

Santiago records AQI above 160, ranking among the world's most polluted cities. Stagnant air, firewood burning, and valley topography are driving this rare spike. Learn more.

","Is the air quality good in Santiago? As of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time, GMT-4), air quality in Santiago, Chile, has worsened sharply over the past several hours due to a build-up of fine particulate matter combined with poor atmospheric dispersion. The AQI is above 160, classified as \"unhealthy,\" with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant. These conditions pose serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Santiago’s air quality map. While air quality in Santiago is typically moderate, today’s conditions are very poor, with PM2.5 levels reaching 13 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. By comparison, Santiago’s 2025 annual average PM2.5 concentration was 18.9 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 65. This means today’s pollution levels are 2.5 times than the city’s annual average, underscoring the unusual and alarming intensity of this pollution episode. Santiago, Chile, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. Air quality map of Santiago, Chile, as of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Santiago? Every winter, Santiago's topography combined with an inverse temperature layer, little rain, and minimal airstream results in a low dispersion rate, insufficient to cope with progressively higher concentrations of pollutants emitted. May marks the beginning of this seasonal deterioration in the Southern Hemisphere. Pollution peaks during colder months, when firewood consumption increases and valley topography limits atmospheric dispersion. Short-term relief depends on favorable weather to break up the inversion layer. Lasting improvement over the coming months will require consistent enforcement of restrictions on wood burning and vehicle emissions during alert episodes (1). Hourly air quality forecast for Santiago, Chile, as of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Santiago? Santiago is located in a basin bounded by the coastal ranges to its west, the Andean Cordillera to its east, and transversal ranges to its north and south, all of which function as natural barriers against the dispersion of air pollutants. This unfavorable geography is compounded by temperature inversions that restrict vertical mixing in the basin, especially during winter nights when inversion layers range between 200 and 400 m (2). Firewood burning for heating during colder months is a significant driver of PM2.5, and can account for up to 94% of fine particulate matter emissions in some Chilean cities according to the Chilean Ministry of Environment (3). Vehicle exhaust, fossil-fuel-powered energy generation, and construction dust compound the problem year-round, while weak winds and stagnant conditions during autumn and winter prevent pollutants from dispersing, causing rapid accumulation across the metropolitan area (4). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Santiago?

As of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time, GMT-4), air quality in Santiago, Chile, has worsened sharply over the past several hours due to a build-up of fine particulate matter combined with poor atmospheric dispersion. The AQI is above 160, classified as \"unhealthy,\" with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant.

These conditions pose serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Santiago’s air quality map.

While air quality in Santiago is typically moderate, today’s conditions are very poor, with PM2.5 levels reaching 13 times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. By comparison, Santiago’s 2025 annual average PM2.5 concentration was 18.9 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 65. This means today’s pollution levels are 2.5 times than the city’s annual average, underscoring the unusual and alarming intensity of this pollution episode.

$\"\"$ Santiago, Chile, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Santiago, Chile, as of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Santiago?

Every winter, Santiago's topography combined with an inverse temperature layer, little rain, and minimal airstream results in a low dispersion rate, insufficient to cope with progressively higher concentrations of pollutants emitted. May marks the beginning of this seasonal deterioration in the Southern Hemisphere.

Pollution peaks during colder months, when firewood consumption increases and valley topography limits atmospheric dispersion. Short-term relief depends on favorable weather to break up the inversion layer. Lasting improvement over the coming months will require consistent enforcement of restrictions on wood burning and vehicle emissions during alert episodes (1).

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Santiago, Chile, as of May 14, 2026, at 1:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Santiago?

Santiago is located in a basin bounded by the coastal ranges to its west, the Andean Cordillera to its east, and transversal ranges to its north and south, all of which function as natural barriers against the dispersion of air pollutants. This unfavorable geography is compounded by temperature inversions that restrict vertical mixing in the basin, especially during winter nights when inversion layers range between 200 and 400 m (2).

Firewood burning for heating during colder months is a significant driver of PM2.5, and can account for up to 94% of fine particulate matter emissions in some Chilean cities according to the Chilean Ministry of Environment (3).

Vehicle exhaust, fossil-fuel-powered energy generation, and construction dust compound the problem year-round, while weak winds and stagnant conditions during autumn and winter prevent pollutants from dispersing, causing rapid accumulation across the metropolitan area (4).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","santiago-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-14-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641540915278","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/santiago-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-14-2026","2026-05-14T06:28:13Z",[1284,700],"May 14, 2026: Santiago among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_10":1496,"_202":-5,"_205":1497,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273287807054","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/SantiagoDesktop_bf3a04c6-3f16-4245-8b19-2d58421d9989.jpg?v=1778768067",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1499,"_1139":1500,"_1154":1501,"_1156":1502,"_1158":1503,"_1160":1504,"_1008":1505,"_10":1506,"_1164":1507,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1508,"_635":1509,"_599":1510,"_1171":1511},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Find out more about São Paulo’s current air quality conditions, pollution sources, and expected improvement timeline.","

Find out more about São Paulo’s current air quality conditions, pollution sources, and expected improvement timeline.

","Is the air quality good in São Paulo? As of May 13, 2026, at 10:30 AM (local time), São Paulo, Brazil, is experiencing poor air quality due to urban emissions and stagnant weather. The AQI was 110, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups.\" These conditions can cause respiratory issues, worsen heart problems, and impair lung function, especially for children, the elderly, and those with health vulnerabilities. Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. São Paulo ranked 4th among the most polluted cities in the world on Wednesday morning. Click here for a real-time air quality map of São Paulo. It is important to keep in mind that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for São Paulo was 12.2 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 50 (“moderate”), and 2.4 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. São Paulo, Brazil ranked as the 4th most polluted major city on May 13, 2026 at 10:20 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. When will air quality improve in São Paulo? Air quality is forecasted to improve later in the day as weather conditions become more favorable for pollutant dispersion. Air quality forecast for São Paulo, Brazil on May 13, 2026. Source: IQAir. Air quality map of São Paulo, Brazil on May 13, 2026. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in São Paulo? Poor air quality in São Paulo is being driven by a combination of wildfire smoke, biomass burning, and vehicle emissions. Research published in 2025 found that smoke from fires across Brazil and neighboring regions significantly increased PM2.5 pollution in São Paulo State during dry seasons, especially during periods of drought and extreme heat (1). Vehicle emissions are also a major contributor to pollution in the São Paulo Metropolitan Area. A 2025 emissions study found that older gasoline and diesel vehicles produced disproportionately high levels of nitrogen oxides and particulate pollution (2). Researchers have also warned that climate change may increase the frequency and severity of pollution episodes in São Paulo due to prolonged droughts and more intense fire seasons (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in São Paulo?

As of May 13, 2026, at 10:30 AM (local time), São Paulo, Brazil, is experiencing poor air quality due to urban emissions and stagnant weather. The AQI was 110, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups.\"

These conditions can cause respiratory issues, worsen heart problems, and impair lung function, especially for children, the elderly, and those with health vulnerabilities.

Air quality is dynamic and, like the weather, can change frequently. São Paulo ranked 4th among the most polluted cities in the world on Wednesday morning.

Click here for a real-time air quality map of São Paulo.

It is important to keep in mind that the average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 for São Paulo was 12.2 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 50 (“moderate”), and 2.4 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

$\"\"$ São Paulo, Brazil ranked as the 4th most polluted major city on May 13, 2026 at 10:20 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

When will air quality improve in São Paulo?

Air quality is forecasted to improve later in the day as weather conditions become more favorable for pollutant dispersion.

$\"\"$ Air quality forecast for São Paulo, Brazil on May 13, 2026. Source: IQAir.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of São Paulo, Brazil on May 13, 2026. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in São Paulo?

Poor air quality in São Paulo is being driven by a combination of wildfire smoke, biomass burning, and vehicle emissions.

Research published in 2025 found that smoke from fires across Brazil and neighboring regions significantly increased PM2.5 pollution in São Paulo State during dry seasons, especially during periods of drought and extreme heat (1).

Vehicle emissions are also a major contributor to pollution in the São Paulo Metropolitan Area. A 2025 emissions study found that older gasoline and diesel vehicles produced disproportionately high levels of nitrogen oxides and particulate pollution (2).

Researchers have also warned that climate change may increase the frequency and severity of pollution episodes in São Paulo due to prolonged droughts and more intense fire seasons (3).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","sao-paulo-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-13-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641537376334","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/sao-paulo-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-13-2026","2026-05-13T13:33:42Z",[1284,700],"May 13, 2026: São Paulo among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_10":1512,"_202":1513,"_205":1514,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273268080718","Polluted skies of Sao Paulo","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/SaoPauloDesktop_a52e0d40-c7e5-4d2e-909e-94550cc58f50.jpg?v=1778679729","popular",[1517,1534,1550,1566],{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1518,"_1139":1519,"_1154":1520,"_1156":1520,"_1158":1521,"_1160":1522,"_1008":1523,"_10":1524,"_1164":1525,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1526,"_635":1527,"_599":1529,"_1171":1530},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Learn why wildfire smoke poses a health risk to people living far downwind and what you can do to help protect yourself.","When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation. The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation. Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways: by robbing it of oxygen through particulate matter irritation Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.1 Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke. What’s in wildfire smoke? Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire. Wildfire smoke often contains: water vapor particulate matter trace minerals carbon dioxide carbon monoxide nitrogen oxides hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O3) levels volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants) Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body. Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including: the types of wood and vegetation burning the moisture content the fire temperature wind conditions other weather-related influences The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health. Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs. The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body. Clean the air with high-performance air filtration Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers Click here Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:2 Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition. Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population. Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease. Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk. Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.3 The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.4 Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.5 The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition. How wildfire smoke behaves Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as: weather geographical terrain the stage of the fire wind Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you. Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact. Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts. Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.6 Wildfire safety tips Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires. Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires. Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available. Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help. Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO2 from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire. Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO2, and NO2, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health. Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions. During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air. The takeaway Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source. Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks. By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.","

When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation.

The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.

Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways:

by robbing it of oxygen
through particulate matter irritation

Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.¹

Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke.

What’s in wildfire smoke?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire.

Wildfire smoke often contains:

\n
water vapor
\n
\n
particulate matter
\n
\n
trace minerals
\n
\n
carbon dioxide
\n
\n
carbon monoxide
\n
\n
nitrogen oxides
\n
\n
hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O₃) levels
\n
\n
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants)
\n

Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body.

$\"What's$

Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir

Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including:

\n
the types of wood and vegetation burning
\n

\n
the moisture content
\n
\n
the fire temperature
\n
\n
wind conditions
\n
\n
other weather-related influences
\n

The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health.

Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs.

The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body.

\n \n

\n\n

Clean the air with high-performance air filtration
Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers

\n\n

Click here

Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations

Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:²

\n
Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition.
\n
\n
Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population.
\n
\n
Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease.
\n
\n
Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk.
\n
\n
Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia.
\n

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.³

The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.⁴

Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.⁵ The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition.

 Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition.

How wildfire smoke behaves

Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as:

\n
weather
\n
\n
geographical terrain
\n
\n
the stage of the fire
\n
\n
wind
\n

Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you.

$\"placeholder$

Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact.

Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts.

Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.⁶

Wildfire safety tips

Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires.

\n
Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
\n
\n
Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
\n
\n
Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
\n
\n
Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants.
\n
\n
Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.
\n
\n
Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO₂, and NO₂, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health.
\n

$\"Google$ $\"App$ $\"Android\"$

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air.

The takeaway

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source.

Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks.

By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.

","how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/564925399118","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","2022-12-29T21:46:38Z",[1284,700,1528,725],"Popular articles","How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_10":1531,"_202":1532,"_205":1533,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269290668110","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_a1b7068f-eca7-44cf-a3d2-95dbd136001a.jpg?v=1749726938",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1535,"_1139":1536,"_1154":1537,"_1156":1537,"_1158":1538,"_1160":1539,"_1008":1540,"_10":1541,"_1164":1542,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1543,"_635":1544,"_599":1545,"_1171":1546},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"How can you know what air purifier manufacturers to trust? Let's look more critically at air purification.","The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification. But not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction. What should I look for in an air purifier? Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier. 1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry. What is a HEPA filter? High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market. But it wasn’t always that way. Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1). Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2). HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants. In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3). Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size. 2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal. All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA. To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4). The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5). So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6). Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less. Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media. 3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA. While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air. Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in. How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think: Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen. Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields. Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter). Air passes through the activated carbon bed. Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area. Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8). Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to. The takeaway Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are: HyperHEPA media for particle filtration No system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing Activated carbon for gas and odor filtration But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier. What should I avoid in an air purifier? When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited. But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase. So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health. Ionizer air purifiers Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture. Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10). But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12): Ionizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions. Ionizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations. Verdict Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.” Ozone Generators It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13). Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm. However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18): Ozone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases. Ozone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children. Indoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks. Verdict Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets. UV Light Purifiers Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20). One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI. In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21). But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26): Bacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful. Some bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light. UV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5. Many UV air purifiers produce ozone. UV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer. Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter. Verdict Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated. What do I do now? At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system. So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality: Get a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence. Use advanced gas-phase filtration. Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon. The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration. Use a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere. Install a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality. Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs. The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.","

The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification.

But not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction.

What should I look for in an air purifier?

Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier.

$\"Air$

1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1).

Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2).

HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants.

In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3).

Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.

The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems.

Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size.

2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal.

All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA.

To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4).

The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5).

So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6).

Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less.

Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media.

3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA.

While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air.

Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in.

How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think:

Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen.
Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields.
Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter).
Air passes through the activated carbon bed.
Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area.

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8).

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes.

Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to.

The takeaway

Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are:

\nHyperHEPA media for particle filtration
\nNo system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing
\nActivated carbon for gas and odor filtration

But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier.

What should I avoid in an air purifier?

When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited.

But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase.

So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health.

Ionizer air purifiers

Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture.

Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10).

But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12):

\nIonizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions.
\nIonizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. \n

Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations.

Verdict

Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.”

Ozone Generators

It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13).

Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm.

However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18):

\nOzone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases.
\nOzone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children.
\nIndoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks.

Verdict

Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets.

UV Light Purifiers

Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20).

One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI.

In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21).

But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26):

\nBacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful.
\nSome bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light.
\nUV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5.
Many UV air purifiers produce ozone.
\nUV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer.

Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter.

Verdict

Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated.

What do I do now?

At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system.

So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality:

\nGet a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence.
\nUse advanced gas-phase filtration.\n
- Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon.
- The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration.
\n
\nUse a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere.
\nInstall a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality.

Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs.

The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.

","do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/564925431886","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","2022-01-02T14:14:32Z",[912,715,1528],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_10":1547,"_202":1548,"_205":1549,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/270220755022","Close-up of what appears to be a room air purifier with some plants in the background (another indoor air purifying tool that has been shown to be ineffective in improving indoor air quality).","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_misconceptions-about-air-purifiers_993189ad-b0e5-4283-84af-8cf2c530fc4d.jpg?v=1758212556",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1551,"_1139":1552,"_1154":1553,"_1156":1553,"_1158":1554,"_1160":1555,"_1008":1556,"_10":1557,"_1164":1558,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1559,"_635":1560,"_599":1561,"_1171":1562},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"They look great on your nightstand, but are they worth their salt as air purifiers? Learn more.","Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?Again, two words: negative ionization.If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.1 Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.2The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O3).There are two main types of ozone: Stratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke. Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including: Coughing Wheezing Trouble breathing Stuffy nose Dizziness Tingling in arms and legs Fever3,4 Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:5 Stable air temperature Moderate to high humidity Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium Lack of airborne pollutants Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.6Take the claims with a grain of...well, saltSo here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead: Be aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes. Control sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions. Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%. Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites. Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas. Ventilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels. Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good. Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking. Use an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone. Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.","

Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.

These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.

They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.

But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.

A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.

And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.

Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?

Again, two words: negative ionization.

If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.

In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.

This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.¹ Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.

The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.

Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.²

The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.

And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O₃).

There are two main types of ozone:

\nStratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
\nTropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke.

Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.

If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including:

Coughing
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Stuffy nose
Dizziness
Tingling in arms and legs
Fever^3,4\n

Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.

So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.

So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?

So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?

The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.

Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:⁵

Stable air temperature
Moderate to high humidity
Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Lack of airborne pollutants

Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.⁶

Take the claims with a grain of...well, salt

So here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.

But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.

You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead:

\nBe aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes.
\nControl sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions.\n\n\t
- Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%.
- Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites.
- Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas.
\n\n\t
\nVentilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels.\n\n\t
- Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking.
\n\n\t
\nUse an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone.

Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.
\n\n

","himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/564925366350","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","2019-06-17T13:49:29Z",[1284,715,1528],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_10":1563,"_202":1564,"_205":1565,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269475545166","Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_HimalayanSalt_061419_750_0b979b61-4b6f-4eeb-8061-88996d52278e.jpg?v=1751543619",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1567,"_1139":1568,"_1154":1569,"_1156":1569,"_1158":1570,"_1160":1571,"_1008":1572,"_10":1573,"_1164":1574,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1575,"_635":1576,"_599":1577,"_1171":1578},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Learn more how scented candles release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit — and can harm your health.","Are scented candles bad for you?Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.Paraffin waxAre paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like: alkenes acetone benzene toluene These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).Is burning candles bad for you?In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including: allergies asthma COPD (5) respiratory tract infections heart attacks strokes cancer So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).Chemical fragrancesAnother problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7): formaldehyde petroleum distillates limonene alcohol esters These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as: headaches dizziness allergy symptoms asthma attacks respiratory tract infections cancer Cored wicksMany candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).Safer alternativesTo limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air: Use essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma. Simmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. Create potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home. The takeawayLighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.","

Are scented candles bad for you?

Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.

Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.

Paraffin wax

Are paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?

According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like:

alkenes
acetone
benzene
toluene

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.

A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).

Is burning candles bad for you?

In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).

A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).

Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including:

allergies
asthma
COPD (5)
respiratory tract infections
heart attacks
strokes
cancer

So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).

Chemical fragrances

Another problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7):

formaldehyde
petroleum distillates
limonene
alcohol
esters

These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as:

headaches
dizziness
allergy symptoms
asthma attacks
respiratory tract infections
cancer
\n\n\t

Cored wicks

Many candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.

Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.

All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.

However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).

Safer alternatives

To limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).

If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air:

\nUse essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma.
\nSimmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
\nCreate potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.

The takeaway

Lighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.

","hidden-dangers-scented-candles","gid://shopify/Article/564925464654","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-scented-candles","2016-12-04T22:35:53Z",[715,1528],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_10":1579,"_202":1580,"_205":1581,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269279461454","Two lit candles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/49_scented_desktop_RE_8f4a0295-45a8-421d-870a-900787fa96cc.jpg?v=1749633122","successStories",[1584,1601,1618,1635],{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1585,"_1139":1586,"_1154":1587,"_1156":1588,"_1158":1589,"_1160":1590,"_1008":1591,"_10":1592,"_1164":1593,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1594,"_635":1595,"_599":1596,"_1171":1597},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.","

Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.

","“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.” In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data. Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning. \"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.” “It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Local expertise, global resources drive innovation Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight. The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity. The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life. These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa. By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa. The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives. Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said. Cultivating environmental consciousness Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.” “Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.” Conclusion From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.","

“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.”

In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data.

Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air

In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning.

\"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.”

“It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Local expertise, global resources drive innovation

Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight.

The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity.

The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life.

These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa.

By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa.

The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa

The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report , there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.

Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives.

Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow

Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.

The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said.

Cultivating environmental consciousness

Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"

Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.”

“Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.”

Conclusion

From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.

Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.

Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.

","revealing-the-invisible-kenya","gid://shopify/Article/634090586190","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-kenya","2025-12-01T13:00:00Z",[710,897],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_10":1598,"_202":1599,"_205":1600,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/271197536334","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_17bb0503-bb60-4348-89cf-60970c96defc.jpg?v=1767630564",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1602,"_1139":1603,"_1154":1604,"_1156":1605,"_1158":1606,"_1160":1607,"_1008":1608,"_10":1609,"_1164":1610,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1611,"_635":1612,"_599":1613,"_1171":1614},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.","

WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.

","In Pakistan, where vast horizons stretch beneath seemingly clear skies, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of data and awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed 15 stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat. \"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan. As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.” Pakistan's Air Quality Challenge Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data. \"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions, and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained. WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan. “Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data. With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country. Rolling Out Pakistan’s Air Quality Network WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing a total of air quality sensors in 15 key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. All 15 stations are currently up and running. Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change. Air Quality Data in Action With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan. \"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.” Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives. Vision For the Future WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data. \"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution. The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\" “Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.” Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 70 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2024 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony. Conclusion WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters. “This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”","

In Pakistan, where vast horizons stretch beneath seemingly clear skies, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of data and awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen.

Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed 15 stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat.

\"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan.

As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.”

Pakistan's Air Quality Challenge

Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data.

\"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions, and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained.

WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan.

“Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data.

With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country.

Rolling Out Pakistan’s Air Quality Network

WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing a total of air quality sensors in 15 key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. All 15 stations are currently up and running.

Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change.

Air Quality Data in Action

With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan.

\"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.”

Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives.

Vision For the Future

WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data.

\"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution.

The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\"

“Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.”

Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 70 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2024 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony.

Conclusion

WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters.

“This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”

","revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","gid://shopify/Article/634659078222","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","2025-11-12T17:43:22Z",[705,710,897],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_10":1615,"_202":1616,"_205":1617,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/270766047310","WWF Team standing Next to Solar Panel","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_PakistanContributor_Desk_A_1ed3d785-94f0-4a6f-af87-5d895532bd30.jpg?v=1762969405",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1619,"_1139":1620,"_1154":1621,"_1156":1622,"_1158":1623,"_1160":1624,"_1008":1625,"_10":1626,"_1164":1627,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1628,"_635":1629,"_599":1630,"_1171":1631},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"Learn about Permian Health's innovative approach to improving air quality in Gambia, using cutting-edge technology to reveal invisible pollutants and safeguard public health.","

Learn about Permian Health's innovative approach to improving air quality in Gambia, using cutting-edge technology to reveal invisible pollutants and safeguard public health.

","In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors. A vision born from necessity Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted. Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air. “There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health The journey of Permian Health Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside. \"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\" Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions. Dr Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.” “The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.” Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March. Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data. Pioneering work on the ground To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\" This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said. However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues. ‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained. Uniting minds and garnering accolades To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project. A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data. \"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray. This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country. Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors. With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors. Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award highlights the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further. Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment. Hopes for the Future Thanks to their recent Air Quality Award, Permian Health acquired an 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia. Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed. Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia. “We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.” \"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\" A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan. According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\" \"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network. The takeaway Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders. Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond monitoring; it's about transforming the fabric of public health through the lens of air quality.","

In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors.

A vision born from necessity

Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted.

Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.

“There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”

–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health

The journey of Permian Health

Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside.

\"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\"

\nHighlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality\n

Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions.

$\"\"$

Dr Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.”

“The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.”

Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March.

Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data.

Pioneering work on the ground

To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia.

\"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\"

This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said.

However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues.

‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained.

Uniting minds and garnering accolades

To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project.

A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data.

\"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray.

This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country.

Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors.

With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors.

Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award highlights the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further.

Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment.

Hopes for the Future

Thanks to their recent Air Quality Award, Permian Health acquired an 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia.

$\"\"$

Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed.

Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia.

“We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.”

\"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\"

A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan.

According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\"

\"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network.

The takeaway

Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders.

Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond monitoring; it's about transforming the fabric of public health through the lens of air quality.

","permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","gid://shopify/Article/634018988110","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","2025-03-24T17:00:00Z",[705,710,897],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s Air Quality Crusade in Gambia",{"_10":1632,"_202":1633,"_205":1634,"_207":1176,"_203":1177},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269813416014","Man working on pole","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/PermianHealth_Desk_A_e25c0fb4-f682-4892-bbc6-5c8e0d753ac9.jpg?v=1754481444",{"_1147":1148,"_1149":1636,"_1139":1637,"_1154":1638,"_1156":1639,"_1158":1640,"_1160":1641,"_1008":1642,"_10":1643,"_1164":1644,"_1166":-5,"_1167":1645,"_635":1646,"_599":1648,"_1171":1649},{"_12":1151},{"_1008":1153},"A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.","

A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.

","Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region. Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them. Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively. Mission built on compassion Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017. “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.” But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality. Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem. “The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.” There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.” This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes. Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions. Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs. Life changing air cleaning solution Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively. Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’” That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable. The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges. “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared. The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat. Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.” “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.” When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night. Looking ahead For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes. The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens. Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.” Conclusion Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal. For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.","

Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region.

Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them.

Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively.

Mission built on compassion

Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017.

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.”

But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality.

Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue.

Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues

Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem.

“The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.”

There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.”

This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes.

Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions.

Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs.

Life changing air cleaning solution

Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively.

Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’”

That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable.

The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges.

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared.

$\"\"$

The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat.

Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.”

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.”

When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night.

Looking ahead

For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes.

The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens.

Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.”

Conclusion

Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal.

For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.

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