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It’s clean air. Learn why and what you can do to keep your baby breathing the clea","excerptHtml","content","The most important addition to a newborn baby’s room probably isn’t a crib, changing table, baby bedding, monitors, soft lighting or even blankets that match the wallpaper.This is because breathing is probably the most critical process for human life. A person can go weeks without eating and days without water. But how long can a person hold their breath? That makes the 25,000 breaths the average person takes everyday especially critical to human survival. And babies’ breaths are even more critical as every breath affects their lung development.Health-conscious parents realize that selecting the right air purifier for the baby’s room is probably the most important investment they can make in the newborn’s room – at least to protect their baby’s health.Bacteria, viruses, mold, pet dander and air pollution all help make the air in a nursery less than fit to breathe. Many air purifiers look nice and even come in nursery-room colors but don’t thoroughly clean the air. And putting an ionizing or ozone-generating air purifier in the baby’s room can make matters even worse.What does the research say about clean air for my baby?Study after study demonstrates that babies and children are especially vulnerable to air pollution: In 2004, a groundbreaking study of nearly 1,800 children published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that air pollution, including common pollutants like PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide, can impair lung development from a young age, leading to a smaller lung size and decreased lung capacity for the rest of your child’s life.1 In late 2009, researchers at the University of Washington reported in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine that infants exposed to air pollution are at an elevated risk of developing bronchiolitis.2 A Canadian study reported in the journal Epidemiology in 2010 that babies in areas with moderate air pollution have a higher risk of developing middle-ear infections.3 Recent studies confirm this finding – a 2018 study in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology looked at over 60,000 babies born between 2001 and 2008, suggestingthat even short-term exposure to PM2.5 substantially increased a child’s risk of middle-ear infections as well as airway blockages.4 A 2017 study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that babies in the womb are more susceptible to DNA damage from air pollution than are their mothers, especially from pollutants like PM2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 microns) and ultrafine particles, such as soot in vehicle exhaust emissions.5 This is because pollution exposure causes a fetus’ telomeres to prematurely shorten due to stress and inflammation resulting from damage from pollutant particles. Telomeres are a crucial component of the chromosomes that make up human DNA – typically, telomeres shorten as a person ages, so seeing them shorten while a fetus is still in the womb is a sign of significant damage that can lead to a reduced life expectancy and a higher risk of health problems after birth.6 Studies like these make it easy to see why an air purifier belongs in baby’s room – simply reducing or removing pollutants from the air your baby breathes can almost entirely eliminate the risks of diseases and DNA damage that can have devastating lifelong consequences.So what do I do about it?When it comes to giving your baby the cleanest air, not all air purifiers will cut it. Here are some tips to choose the right air purifier for your baby so that you can make sure they get the one thing they can’t live without: clean air, free of pollutants and other irritants.Don’t buy an ionizing or ozone-generating air purifier.Some parents mistakenly purchase an ionizing air purifier for a baby’s room because they assume that an absolutely quiet system is best for their baby.Ionizing air cleaners are perhaps quiet, but they are dangerous. The same technology that produces negatively charged ions also emit ozone, a lung irritant. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns against using ozone-producing air cleaners at all, so why take chances in a newborn’s room?7Don’t be afraid of a little white noise.Some parents also wrongly assume that silence is best in baby’s room, whereas baby experts, along with experienced moms and dads, know that babies sleep best with a little “white noise” in the room to lull them to sleep.“Amazingly, the sounds (babies) heard 24/7 in the uterus were about twice as loud as a vacuum cleaner, so babies love and need strong rhythmic noise,” says Dr. Harvey Karp, author of “The Happiest Baby on the Block.”8,9An air purifier may not be as loud as a vacuum cleaner, but it will get the job done.For many babies, the sound of a fan running in the air purifier will be all they need to fall asleep, while other babies might prefer music or the sounds of nature.Start out small and see what works for your baby – some babies are soothed simply by the sound of a fan running, but others may need less obvious types of white noise, such as a computer keyboard clacking or a parent snoring.10Use an air purifier to blanket your baby in clean air.An air purifier run at higher speeds will generate more noise, but it’s important to place the air purifier in a place where there will be no drafts in the baby’s crib, as the cool air can weaken your baby’s immune system and make them more susceptible to infections.11You can also solve the problem of noise and drafts by using the Atem® Desk nursery air purifier to blanket your baby in clean air, directed right into your baby’s crib or bed with the PureJet Diffuser. With an adjustable fan speed, you can set your Atem to deliver the exact amount of airflow and produce just the right amount of noise for your baby to breathe clean air and sleep soundly with optimal white noise.","contentHtml","

The most important addition to a newborn baby’s room probably isn’t a crib, changing table, baby bedding, monitors, soft lighting or even blankets that match the wallpaper.

This is because breathing is probably the most critical process for human life. A person can go weeks without eating and days without water. But how long can a person hold their breath? That makes the 25,000 breaths the average person takes everyday especially critical to human survival. And babies’ breaths are even more critical as every breath affects their lung development.

Health-conscious parents realize that selecting the right air purifier for the baby’s room is probably the most important investment they can make in the newborn’s room – at least to protect their baby’s health.

Bacteria, viruses, mold, pet dander and air pollution all help make the air in a nursery less than fit to breathe. Many air purifiers look nice and even come in nursery-room colors but don’t thoroughly clean the air. And putting an ionizing or ozone-generating air purifier in the baby’s room can make matters even worse.

What does the research say about clean air for my baby?

Study after study demonstrates that babies and children are especially vulnerable to air pollution:

In 2004, a groundbreaking study of nearly 1,800 children published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that air pollution, including common pollutants like PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide, can impair lung development from a young age, leading to a smaller lung size and decreased lung capacity for the rest of your child’s life.¹\n
In late 2009, researchers at the University of Washington reported in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine that infants exposed to air pollution are at an elevated risk of developing bronchiolitis.²\n
A Canadian study reported in the journal Epidemiology in 2010 that babies in areas with moderate air pollution have a higher risk of developing middle-ear infections.³ Recent studies confirm this finding – a 2018 study in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology looked at over 60,000 babies born between 2001 and 2008, suggestingthat even short-term exposure to PM2.5 substantially increased a child’s risk of middle-ear infections as well as airway blockages.⁴\n
A 2017 study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that babies in the womb are more susceptible to DNA damage from air pollution than are their mothers, especially from pollutants like PM2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 microns) and ultrafine particles, such as soot in vehicle exhaust emissions.⁵ This is because pollution exposure causes a fetus’ telomeres to prematurely shorten due to stress and inflammation resulting from damage from pollutant particles. Telomeres are a crucial component of the chromosomes that make up human DNA – typically, telomeres shorten as a person ages, so seeing them shorten while a fetus is still in the womb is a sign of significant damage that can lead to a reduced life expectancy and a higher risk of health problems after birth.⁶\n

Studies like these make it easy to see why an air purifier belongs in baby’s room – simply reducing or removing pollutants from the air your baby breathes can almost entirely eliminate the risks of diseases and DNA damage that can have devastating lifelong consequences.

So what do I do about it?

When it comes to giving your baby the cleanest air, not all air purifiers will cut it. Here are some tips to choose the right air purifier for your baby so that you can make sure they get the one thing they can’t live without: clean air, free of pollutants and other irritants.

Don’t buy an ionizing or ozone-generating air purifier.

Some parents mistakenly purchase an ionizing air purifier for a baby’s room because they assume that an absolutely quiet system is best for their baby.

Ionizing air cleaners are perhaps quiet, but they are dangerous. The same technology that produces negatively charged ions also emit ozone, a lung irritant. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns against using ozone-producing air cleaners at all, so why take chances in a newborn’s room?⁷

Don’t be afraid of a little white noise.

Some parents also wrongly assume that silence is best in baby’s room, whereas baby experts, along with experienced moms and dads, know that babies sleep best with a little “white noise” in the room to lull them to sleep.

“Amazingly, the sounds (babies) heard 24/7 in the uterus were about twice as loud as a vacuum cleaner, so babies love and need strong rhythmic noise,” says Dr. Harvey Karp, author of “The Happiest Baby on the Block.”^8,9

An air purifier may not be as loud as a vacuum cleaner, but it will get the job done.

For many babies, the sound of a fan running in the air purifier will be all they need to fall asleep, while other babies might prefer music or the sounds of nature.

Start out small and see what works for your baby – some babies are soothed simply by the sound of a fan running, but others may need less obvious types of white noise, such as a computer keyboard clacking or a parent snoring.¹⁰

Use an air purifier to blanket your baby in clean air.

An air purifier run at higher speeds will generate more noise, but it’s important to place the air purifier in a place where there will be no drafts in the baby’s crib, as the cool air can weaken your baby’s immune system and make them more susceptible to infections.¹¹

You can also solve the problem of noise and drafts by using the Atem^® Desk nursery air purifier to blanket your baby in clean air, directed right into your baby’s crib or bed with the PureJet Diffuser. With an adjustable fan speed, you can set your Atem to deliver the exact amount of airflow and produce just the right amount of noise for your baby to breathe clean air and sleep soundly with optimal white noise.

","one-thing-your-baby-cant-live-without-clean-air","gid://shopify/Article/564865630286","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/one-thing-your-baby-cant-live-without-clean-air","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2016-09-19T18:07:30Z",[866,670,1125],"Parents","Selecting an air purifier for the nursery","image",{"_10":1129,"_1130":1131,"_597":1132,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269218316366","altText","A baby sleeping in a crib.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/160_baby_desktop_c39b7394-a2c8-4571-b3b3-200faf4c8f72.jpg?v=1749121871","width",2880,1500,{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1137,"_1094":1138,"_1110":43,"_1112":43,"_1113":1139,"_1115":1140,"_962":1141,"_10":1142,"_1119":1143,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1144,"_594":1145,"_558":1147,"_1127":1148},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"If ever there were a neighborhood where an air purifier belongs in every home, it might be Oakwood Heights in Southwest Detroit. Granted, Detroit is not the dirtiest-air city in the United States. In fact, it only ranks 17th in year-round particle pollution on the American Lung Association’s Most Polluted Cities list. But the 42817 ZIP code, including Oakwood Heights, is surrounded by a petroleum refinery, an automobile factory, salt mines under the streets, a coal-fired power plant, and cement and asphalt manufacturers. It’s easy to see why the Community Benefits Coalition, a community advocacy group in the area, is pushing for air purifiers at schools in the area. They are hoping a new bridge over the Detroit River and into their neighborhood will bring interest and funding for school air filtration and other air quality projects in the not-too-distant future. Local residents call Oakwood Heights the “Sacrifice Zone.” Environmental activists from the Sierra Club coined the term to reflect the community’s sacrifices that have been made while local energy-production companies have prospered. Meanwhile, a University of Michigan/Detroit Free Press study last year named the neighborhood the most polluted in Michigan. And particle pollution, which can be removed from indoor air by a high-performance air purifier, is only part of the problem. Nitrogen oxide and other gases are also present at alarming levels. Asthma rates in the neighborhood are high. One study of elementary school students in Southwest Detroit reported that 14.3 percent of students have physician-diagnosed asthma and another 14.4 percent have undiagnosed asthma. Other studies have linked increases in particulate pollution and ozone to increases in asthma symptoms in the neighborhood. Community groups for years have been addressing the problem by going house to house and working with families to reduce asthma triggers in the home. But while air purifiers have been shown to be effective in reducing asthma symptoms, few families in neighborhoods such as Oakwood Heights can afford them at home. A pilot study conducted by the South Coast Air Quality Management District in Southern California in 2009 demonstrated that low-cost, high-efficiency HVAC filters from IQAir removed up to 90 percent of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor classroom air. IQAir stand-alone air purifiers for classrooms have achieved similar results. These technologies have already been installed by IQAir in more than 400 classrooms. Until similar classroom clean air technologies receive funding in Southwest Detroit, the “Sacrifice Zone” will likely continue to struggle to hold the line against asthma rates of almost 30 percent.","

If ever there were a neighborhood where an air purifier belongs in every home, it might be Oakwood Heights in Southwest Detroit. Granted, Detroit is not the dirtiest-air city in the United States. In fact, it only ranks 17th in year-round particle pollution on the American Lung Association’s Most Polluted Cities list. But the 42817 ZIP code, including Oakwood Heights, is surrounded by a petroleum refinery, an automobile factory, salt mines under the streets, a coal-fired power plant, and cement and asphalt manufacturers. It’s easy to see why the Community Benefits Coalition, a community advocacy group in the area, is pushing for air purifiers at schools in the area. They are hoping a new bridge over the Detroit River and into their neighborhood will bring interest and funding for school air filtration and other air quality projects in the not-too-distant future.

Local residents call Oakwood Heights the “Sacrifice Zone.” Environmental activists from the Sierra Club coined the term to reflect the community’s sacrifices that have been made while local energy-production companies have prospered. Meanwhile, a University of Michigan/Detroit Free Press study last year named the neighborhood the most polluted in Michigan. And particle pollution, which can be removed from indoor air by a high-performance air purifier, is only part of the problem. Nitrogen oxide and other gases are also present at alarming levels.

Asthma rates in the neighborhood are high. One study of elementary school students in Southwest Detroit reported that 14.3 percent of students have physician-diagnosed asthma and another 14.4 percent have undiagnosed asthma. Other studies have linked increases in particulate pollution and ozone to increases in asthma symptoms in the neighborhood. Community groups for years have been addressing the problem by going house to house and working with families to reduce asthma triggers in the home. But while air purifiers have been shown to be effective in reducing asthma symptoms, few families in neighborhoods such as Oakwood Heights can afford them at home.

A pilot study conducted by the South Coast Air Quality Management District in Southern California in 2009 demonstrated that low-cost, high-efficiency HVAC filters from IQAir removed up to 90 percent of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor classroom air. IQAir stand-alone air purifiers for classrooms have achieved similar results. These technologies have already been installed by IQAir in more than 400 classrooms. Until similar classroom clean air technologies receive funding in Southwest Detroit, the “Sacrifice Zone” will likely continue to struggle to hold the line against asthma rates of almost 30 percent.

","community-groups-eye-air-purifiers-polluted-detroit-neighborhood","gid://shopify/Article/564865663054","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/community-groups-eye-air-purifiers-polluted-detroit-neighborhood","2016-09-19T17:39:24Z",[1146,1125],"Air Quality","Community groups eye air purifiers in polluted Detroit neighborhood",{"_10":1149,"_1130":1150,"_597":1151,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269253181518","tall buildings","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/158_detroit_desktop_96710ce5-8ec5-41f4-8cad-126f29f7610e.jpg?v=1749460038",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1153,"_1094":1154,"_1110":43,"_1112":43,"_1113":1155,"_1115":1156,"_962":1157,"_10":1158,"_1119":1159,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1160,"_594":1161,"_558":1162,"_1127":1163},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"A new study published in Australia adds more weight to the argument that an air purifier might help protect the health of unborn babies. The new study found that pregnant women living in suburbs where there was no major industrial pollution and only average local traffic pollution were giving birth to babies whose birthweight was .12 pounds lower than the average birthweight in Western Australia of 7.7 pounds. The findings were based on a study of 1800 women and were published yesterday in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health. Gavin Pereira, who headed the study, is the same epidemiologist who authored a report last year that traffic pollution in Perth, Australia, increases the risk young children having serious asthma attacks by 70 percent. Surprised by the new study which showed pollution effects in areas not heavily polluted, Pereira said the new study bears a message for builders and planners. “We need to do a lot more work on this because as researchers we can’t say the exact distance we should be building away from these roads,” he told The West Australian. The link between air pollution and low birth weight has been established by previous studies in the United States. Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, found a link between high levels of carbon monoxide and particle pollution and preterm delivery, low birth weight and congenital heart defects. The UCLA researchers specifically linked residential traffic to preterm and low birth weight.It stands to reason that an air purifier that reduces or eliminates particle pollution and gases in the air at home can offer at least some level of protection to expecting mothers. While an air purifier at home might offer protection, choosing the wrong air purifier could make things worse. Pregnant women, and everyone else for that matter, should choose an air purifier that only uses safe technology to clean the air. That means avoiding any air purifier that generates ozone – either deliberately as an air-cleaning technique or “accidentally” as a byproduct of ionization. Although neither the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency nor the American Lung Association endorse products, both have gone out of their way to recommend against using ozone-generating air purifiers. They suggest using a mechanical air purifier that traps particles and gases with filters, not with electrical charges or ozone. The danger of ozone is acute for pregnant women, a point clearly demonstrated in a University of Southern California report in 2005. That study showed that babies born to women who had been exposed to high levels of ozone during pregnancy are at a greater risk for being born underweight. The bottom line for expecting mothers: take heed if you live in area with even moderate traffic or industrial pollution. And consider investing in a high-performance air purifier to keep the air at home clean and healthy for both mother and baby.","

A new study published in Australia adds more weight to the argument that an air purifier might help protect the health of unborn babies. The new study found that pregnant women living in suburbs where there was no major industrial pollution and only average local traffic pollution were giving birth to babies whose birthweight was .12 pounds lower than the average birthweight in Western Australia of 7.7 pounds. The findings were based on a study of 1800 women and were published yesterday in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health.

Gavin Pereira, who headed the study, is the same epidemiologist who authored a report last year that traffic pollution in Perth, Australia, increases the risk young children having serious asthma attacks by 70 percent. Surprised by the new study which showed pollution effects in areas not heavily polluted, Pereira said the new study bears a message for builders and planners. “We need to do a lot more work on this because as researchers we can’t say the exact distance we should be building away from these roads,” he told The West Australian.

The link between air pollution and low birth weight has been established by previous studies in the United States. Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, found a link between high levels of carbon monoxide and particle pollution and preterm delivery, low birth weight and congenital heart defects. The UCLA researchers specifically linked residential traffic to preterm and low birth weight.
It stands to reason that an air purifier that reduces or eliminates particle pollution and gases in the air at home can offer at least some level of protection to expecting mothers.

While an air purifier at home might offer protection, choosing the wrong air purifier could make things worse. Pregnant women, and everyone else for that matter, should choose an air purifier that only uses safe technology to clean the air. That means avoiding any air purifier that generates ozone – either deliberately as an air-cleaning technique or “accidentally” as a byproduct of ionization. Although neither the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency nor the American Lung Association endorse products, both have gone out of their way to recommend against using ozone-generating air purifiers. They suggest using a mechanical air purifier that traps particles and gases with filters, not with electrical charges or ozone.

The danger of ozone is acute for pregnant women, a point clearly demonstrated in a University of Southern California report in 2005. That study showed that babies born to women who had been exposed to high levels of ozone during pregnancy are at a greater risk for being born underweight. The bottom line for expecting mothers: take heed if you live in area with even moderate traffic or industrial pollution. And consider investing in a high-performance air purifier to keep the air at home clean and healthy for both mother and baby.

","air-purifier-good-idea-expecting-moms","gid://shopify/Article/564865957966","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/air-purifier-good-idea-expecting-moms","2016-09-19T17:18:44Z",[670,1125],"Air purifier a good idea for expecting moms",{"_10":1164,"_1130":1165,"_597":1166,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269596196942","Expecting Mom","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/150_moms_desktop_65665a20-9f30-4725-a315-c40fe060b227.jpg?v=1752575782",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1168,"_1094":1169,"_1110":43,"_1112":43,"_1113":1170,"_1115":1171,"_962":1172,"_10":1173,"_1119":1174,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1175,"_594":1176,"_558":1177,"_1127":1178},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"The effects of air pollution on pregnant women and the risk of preterm birth has been documented in the past, as was noted in an Air Quality News entry earlier this month on air purifiers and expectant moms. The day after that post, the University of California, Los Angeles, published yet another study that should be of interest to many, including parents seeking direction on an air purifier to help protect the health of a pregnant mom and baby at home. The new study found a significant increase in preterm births among women exposed to organic carbon, elemental carbon, benzene and diesel, biomass burning and particulate pollution. The study also zeroed in on a specific type of pollutant as a leading candidate for further study and potential concern: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs are specific organic compounds (there are more than 100 variations) that results from the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels such as coal or gasoline. They are suspected human carcinogens, and are known to be poisonous to aquatic life as well. PAHs are a component of air pollution, and are measured at monitoring stations maintained by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. They can be filtered out of the air by a high-quality air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus air purifier, which is proven to filter tiny ultrafine particles (less than 0.1 microns in diameter). That’s important because, as the UCLA study noted, PAHs “can be carried in large quantities into the body by ultrafine particles.” Experts agree that an high-quality air purifier can help. “Installing a HEPA air purifier in your home or apartment is one of the best, most proactive ways to fight off the risks of PAHs and air pollution,” says one leading air purifier site. The UCLA study was extensive. Researchers analyzed electronic birth records for all live births in Los Angeles (California) County from June 2004 to March 2006, a total of 276,891 records. They then mapped the babies’ residential locations and narrowed the study group down based on proximity to air monitoring stations. This enabled the researchers to gather precise environmental data on the cases studied. The report also noted that while traffic pollution was the major source of PAHs to which the mothers were exposed, it was not the only source. Tobacco smoke and smoke from wood and charcoal fires contain high levels of PAHs. And charcoal-broiled foods also contain significant amounts of PAHs.","

The effects of air pollution on pregnant women and the risk of preterm birth has been documented in the past, as was noted in an Air Quality News entry earlier this month on air purifiers and expectant moms. The day after that post, the University of California, Los Angeles, published yet another study that should be of interest to many, including parents seeking direction on an air purifier to help protect the health of a pregnant mom and baby at home. The new study found a significant increase in preterm births among women exposed to organic carbon, elemental carbon, benzene and diesel, biomass burning and particulate pollution. The study also zeroed in on a specific type of pollutant as a leading candidate for further study and potential concern: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

PAHs are specific organic compounds (there are more than 100 variations) that results from the incomplete combustion of carbon-based fuels such as coal or gasoline. They are suspected human carcinogens, and are known to be poisonous to aquatic life as well. PAHs are a component of air pollution, and are measured at monitoring stations maintained by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. They can be filtered out of the air by a high-quality air purifier such as the IQAir HealthPro Plus air purifier, which is proven to filter tiny ultrafine particles (less than 0.1 microns in diameter). That’s important because, as the UCLA study noted, PAHs “can be carried in large quantities into the body by ultrafine particles.” Experts agree that an high-quality air purifier can help. “Installing a HEPA air purifier in your home or apartment is one of the best, most proactive ways to fight off the risks of PAHs and air pollution,” says one leading air purifier site.

The UCLA study was extensive. Researchers analyzed electronic birth records for all live births in Los Angeles (California) County from June 2004 to March 2006, a total of 276,891 records. They then mapped the babies’ residential locations and narrowed the study group down based on proximity to air monitoring stations. This enabled the researchers to gather precise environmental data on the cases studied. The report also noted that while traffic pollution was the major source of PAHs to which the mothers were exposed, it was not the only source. Tobacco smoke and smoke from wood and charcoal fires contain high levels of PAHs. And charcoal-broiled foods also contain significant amounts of PAHs.

","pahs-preterm-births-and-air-purifiers","gid://shopify/Article/564866220110","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/pahs-preterm-births-and-air-purifiers","2016-09-19T16:57:28Z",[1146,1125],"PAHs, preterm births and air purifiers",{"_10":1179,"_1130":1180,"_597":1181,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269279658062","molecules","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/144_preterm_banner_2a4738f3-041b-49e2-9f59-6cd75aa48ef3.jpg?v=1749634358",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1183,"_1094":1184,"_1110":43,"_1112":43,"_1113":1185,"_1115":1186,"_962":1187,"_10":1188,"_1119":1189,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1190,"_594":1191,"_558":1192,"_1127":1193},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Air purifiers are a first line of defense against the dangers of air pollution. That’s because in the case of air pollution, indoor air quality problems are the result of outdoor air quality problems. Short-term source reduction of air pollution is rarely an option, and ventilation won’t help either because the outdoors air is the problem. That leaves remediation as the only practical approach to address air pollution in most situations. And the primary tool for remediation of indoor air pollution is an air purifier. Usually, discussions about air purifiers, air pollution and air quality focus on particle pollution and ozone pollution. Now a new study from the University of California (UC) Davis Health System focuses on nitrogen oxides, gaseous lung irritants that result from the same fossil fuel burning processes that produces particle pollution. The new study determined that nitrogen oxides are adding significantly to elevated incidences of acute bronchitis and other respiratory illnesses in children who live in polluted areas. The study also found that levels of nitrogen oxide currently considered safe might actually pose a risk for young children. The study results were published this week in the journal Environmental International. The study was conducted in the Czech Republic, in areas where nitrogen oxides are regularly monitored. The link between elevated nitrogen oxides and acute respiratory illness was strongest in children between the ages of 1 and 2. The researchers determined that a nitrogen oxide exposure of 35 micrograms per cubic meter increased the incidence of acute bronchitis by about 30 percent. Under normal conditions the level of nitrogen oxides in a home is about half the level outside. In homes with gas stoves, kerosene heaters, etc., the levels indoors can sometimes exceed outdoors levels (in which cases ventilation makes sense). While the effectiveness of high-performance HEPA air purifiers against particle air pollution is clear and proven (IQAir air purifiers can even reduce tiny ultra fine particles by more than 99.5 percent), gases require a filter designed for that purpose. IQAir’s HealthPro Plus and GC MultiGas air purifiers, for example, both contain filter specifically designed to address gases in addition to the systems’ particle filters. One common form of nitrogen oxides is nitrogen dioxide, a gas that is exceptionally damaging to health and is monitored by air quality agencies. In California, the Air Resources Board established ambient outdoor standards that are stricter than federal standards. The California standard is 0.18 parts per million. The heaviest concentrations of nitrogen dioxide in air pollution are in large urban areas such as the Northeast Corridor, Chicago and Los Angeles, according to the American Lung Association. Levels tend to be most elevated near highways. While air purifiers cannot offer complete protection against nitrogen oxides such as nitrogen dioxide, they can reduce the presence of such dangerous gases. Since the geographic areas with elevated pollution levels of these pollution-related gases are mostly where particle pollution is also a substantial health threat, current and prospective owners of air purifiers in these areas would do well to consider whether their particular air purifier can rid the air of not only particle pollution but can also provide some level of protection against dangerous gases in the polluted air as well.","

Air purifiers are a first line of defense against the dangers of air pollution. That’s because in the case of air pollution, indoor air quality problems are the result of outdoor air quality problems. Short-term source reduction of air pollution is rarely an option, and ventilation won’t help either because the outdoors air is the problem. That leaves remediation as the only practical approach to address air pollution in most situations. And the primary tool for remediation of indoor air pollution is an air purifier.

Usually, discussions about air purifiers, air pollution and air quality focus on particle pollution and ozone pollution. Now a new study from the University of California (UC) Davis Health System focuses on nitrogen oxides, gaseous lung irritants that result from the same fossil fuel burning processes that produces particle pollution. The new study determined that nitrogen oxides are adding significantly to elevated incidences of acute bronchitis and other respiratory illnesses in children who live in polluted areas. The study also found that levels of nitrogen oxide currently considered safe might actually pose a risk for young children. The study results were published this week in the journal Environmental International.

The study was conducted in the Czech Republic, in areas where nitrogen oxides are regularly monitored. The link between elevated nitrogen oxides and acute respiratory illness was strongest in children between the ages of 1 and 2. The researchers determined that a nitrogen oxide exposure of 35 micrograms per cubic meter increased the incidence of acute bronchitis by about 30 percent.

Under normal conditions the level of nitrogen oxides in a home is about half the level outside. In homes with gas stoves, kerosene heaters, etc., the levels indoors can sometimes exceed outdoors levels (in which cases ventilation makes sense). While the effectiveness of high-performance HEPA air purifiers against particle air pollution is clear and proven (IQAir air purifiers can even reduce tiny ultra fine particles by more than 99.5 percent), gases require a filter designed for that purpose. IQAir’s HealthPro Plus and GC MultiGas air purifiers, for example, both contain filter specifically designed to address gases in addition to the systems’ particle filters.

One common form of nitrogen oxides is nitrogen dioxide, a gas that is exceptionally damaging to health and is monitored by air quality agencies. In California, the Air Resources Board established ambient outdoor standards that are stricter than federal standards. The California standard is 0.18 parts per million. The heaviest concentrations of nitrogen dioxide in air pollution are in large urban areas such as the Northeast Corridor, Chicago and Los Angeles, according to the American Lung Association. Levels tend to be most elevated near highways.

While air purifiers cannot offer complete protection against nitrogen oxides such as nitrogen dioxide, they can reduce the presence of such dangerous gases. Since the geographic areas with elevated pollution levels of these pollution-related gases are mostly where particle pollution is also a substantial health threat, current and prospective owners of air purifiers in these areas would do well to consider whether their particular air purifier can rid the air of not only particle pollution but can also provide some level of protection against dangerous gases in the polluted air as well.

","nox-linked-bronchitis-kids-can-air-purifiers-help","gid://shopify/Article/564866515022","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/nox-linked-bronchitis-kids-can-air-purifiers-help","2016-09-16T22:02:20Z",[1146,1125],"NOx linked to bronchitis in kids; Can air purifiers help?",{"_10":1194,"_1130":1195,"_597":1196,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269390970958","baby girl nebulising","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/136_bronchitis_desktop_fa408b4c-ea5a-4908-90b4-9b93105abd6e.jpg?v=1750762440",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1198,"_1094":1199,"_1110":1200,"_1112":1200,"_1113":1201,"_1115":1202,"_962":1203,"_10":1204,"_1119":1205,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1206,"_594":1207,"_558":1208,"_1127":1209},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"If you’re on the fence about buying an air purifier because of cost, and you or someone in your home has asthma, here’s something to consider: The total annual costs resulting from a “typical” case of childhood asthma add up to $4,063 per year. Learn more","If you’re on the fence about buying an air purifier because of cost, and you or someone in your home has asthma, here’s something to consider: The total annual costs resulting from a “typical” case of childhood asthma add up to $4,063 per year, at least in Riverside, Calif. That’s the conclusion of credible new research conducted by a team of economists. The annual figure includes medical costs as well as indirect costs such as asthma-related school absences. When kids miss school, parents and caregivers miss work, adding to the costs. In comparison, an air purifier, even the world’s best air purifier (theIQAir HealthPro Plus), costs only a fraction of what asthma can cost in a single year.The newest study was conducted in Long Beach, Calif., and Riverside, both cities with elevated levels of air pollution and many freeways that are near the places where people live. The researchers were able to count cases related specifically to traffic air pollution, and concluded that almost half of all new asthma cases are the result of traffic-related pollution. They also concluded that each episode of bronchitic symptoms (daily cough, congestion or phlegm, or bronchitis for three months in a row) cost over $900.The research was led by Sylvia Brandt, Ph.D., a resource economist from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, in collaboration with researchers at the University of Southern California and the University of Basel, Switzerland. The results were published last week in the online publication, “European Respiratory Journal.”Brandt is also involved in research that focuses on cross-cultural willingness to pay for children’s health. “Questions of environmental policy often become questions about money: money for healthcare programs, money to retrofit polluting factories, etc.,” she says in her official biography. “Families with children who have asthma are bearing a high cost,” Brandt said in announcing the results of the new study. She pointed out that the asthma costs identified in the Long Beach and Riverside families she studied represent about 7 percent of median household income in those communities. She noted that health care costs higher than 5 percent of a family’s income are considered to be unsustainable.","

If you’re on the fence about buying an air purifier because of cost, and you or someone in your home has asthma, here’s something to consider: The total annual costs resulting from a “typical” case of childhood asthma add up to $4,063 per year, at least in Riverside, Calif. That’s the conclusion of credible new research conducted by a team of economists. The annual figure includes medical costs as well as indirect costs such as asthma-related school absences. When kids miss school, parents and caregivers miss work, adding to the costs. In comparison, an air purifier, even the world’s best air purifier (theIQAir HealthPro Plus), costs only a fraction of what asthma can cost in a single year.

The newest study was conducted in Long Beach, Calif., and Riverside, both cities with elevated levels of air pollution and many freeways that are near the places where people live. The researchers were able to count cases related specifically to traffic air pollution, and concluded that almost half of all new asthma cases are the result of traffic-related pollution. They also concluded that each episode of bronchitic symptoms (daily cough, congestion or phlegm, or bronchitis for three months in a row) cost over $900.

The research was led by Sylvia Brandt, Ph.D., a resource economist from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, in collaboration with researchers at the University of Southern California and the University of Basel, Switzerland. The results were published last week in the online publication, “European Respiratory Journal.”

Brandt is also involved in research that focuses on cross-cultural willingness to pay for children’s health. “Questions of environmental policy often become questions about money: money for healthcare programs, money to retrofit polluting factories, etc.,” she says in her official biography. “Families with children who have asthma are bearing a high cost,” Brandt said in announcing the results of the new study. She pointed out that the asthma costs identified in the Long Beach and Riverside families she studied represent about 7 percent of median household income in those communities. She noted that health care costs higher than 5 percent of a family’s income are considered to be unsustainable.

","average-annual-asthma-cost-4063","gid://shopify/Article/564866875470","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/average-annual-asthma-cost-4063","2016-09-16T21:14:00Z",[1125],"Average annual asthma cost: $4,063",{"_10":1210,"_1130":1211,"_597":1212,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269087604814","Young child with oxygen mask","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/123_asthma_desktop.jpg?v=1747993846",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1214,"_1094":1215,"_1110":43,"_1112":43,"_1113":1216,"_1115":1217,"_962":1218,"_10":1219,"_1119":1220,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1221,"_594":1222,"_558":1223,"_1127":1224},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"The number of children with autism has increased 78 percent over the last 10 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One major environmental cause is air pollution. That has led Rodale News to recommend that anyone living close to a major freeway should invest in a high-quality air purifier such as an IQAir system. The Rodale News article cites recent studies that link freeway particle air pollution to a variety of cognitive disabilities, including memory problems, brain damage and increased risk of autism. This is a growing issue that has been covered in previous posts at IQAir’s Air Quality News. In one report we noted that laboratory studies at the University of Southern California link ultra fine pollution to brain damage in mice. Based on that study and others – including one finding that children born to women living within 1,000 feet of a freeway are twice as likely to have autism – Rodale News recommends taking action to protect yourself against airborne particles from vehicle exhaust. How? “Drive less or carpool to cut back on air pollution, commute during less busy hours, and if you live close to a major roadway, consider investing in a high-quality air purifier that does not produce ozone, such as IQAir models,” says Rodale. IQAir air purifiers are proven effective against ultra fine particle pollution. In addition to pollution from traffic, Rodale cites other environmental sources of autism and learning disabilities, including lead, mercury, PCBs in food, and other sources. Check out the full article here. Rodale is among the world’s most trusted sources of information about health, wellness and fitness.","

The number of children with autism has increased 78 percent over the last 10 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One major environmental cause is air pollution. That has led Rodale News to recommend that anyone living close to a major freeway should invest in a high-quality air purifier such as an IQAir system.

The Rodale News article cites recent studies that link freeway particle air pollution to a variety of cognitive disabilities, including memory problems, brain damage and increased risk of autism. This is a growing issue that has been covered in previous posts at IQAir’s Air Quality News. In one report we noted that laboratory studies at the University of Southern California link ultra fine pollution to brain damage in mice.

Based on that study and others – including one finding that children born to women living within 1,000 feet of a freeway are twice as likely to have autism – Rodale News recommends taking action to protect yourself against airborne particles from vehicle exhaust. How?

“Drive less or carpool to cut back on air pollution, commute during less busy hours, and if you live close to a major roadway, consider investing in a high-quality air purifier that does not produce ozone, such as IQAir models,” says Rodale. IQAir air purifiers are proven effective against ultra fine particle pollution.

In addition to pollution from traffic, Rodale cites other environmental sources of autism and learning disabilities, including lead, mercury, PCBs in food, and other sources. Check out the full article here. Rodale is among the world’s most trusted sources of information about health, wellness and fitness.

","rodale-news-autism-air-pollution-and-iqair","gid://shopify/Article/564867170382","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/rodale-news-autism-air-pollution-and-iqair","2016-09-16T20:43:35Z",[1146,1125],"Rodale News: Autism, Air Pollution and IQAir",{"_10":1225,"_1130":1226,"_597":1227,"_1133":1228,"_490":1229},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269141049422","boy looking out of window","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/113_rodale_desktop_c84919f8-80dd-4d18-9d50-7eab2355556d.webp?v=1748469437",1600,833,{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1231,"_1094":1232,"_1110":1233,"_1112":1233,"_1113":1234,"_1115":1235,"_962":1236,"_10":1237,"_1119":1238,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1239,"_594":1240,"_558":1241,"_1127":1242},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"CNN anchor Anderson Cooper partnered with IQAir to give a girl with a heart transplant clean air.","When Anderson Cooper, then host of the daytime TV show “Anderson Live,” learned that young Jaelyn Anderson needed hospital-quality air to breathe at home following her successful heart transplant, he turned to IQAir, the world leader in medical-grade air filtration. Thieves broke into a van on Valentine’s Day and stole the money Jaelyn’s family was going to receive to buy an air purifier for their home in Port Richey, Florida.1 When Cooper heard about it, he knew he had to act. Raising money for a new heart Five months after Jaelyn was born, she experienced problems breathing. After being taken to the hospital, she was diagnosed with the genetic disorder myocarditis, causing her heart to expand and her right lung to collapse. She urgently required a heart transplant to live and was placed on a donation waiting list.2 Jaelyn’s extended family sought to raise money for the family’s living expenses and to help prepare the home for Jaelyn’s recovery in case she received a suitable heart donation. The home needed to be remodelled for her recovery, including the removal of suspected mold, rotten wood, and indoor air contaminants. Jaelyn’s health would also require clean, medical-grade air to help make her living environment safe. Mechanical media can provide better performance over time when helping filter viruses. After word spread about Jaelyn’s needs and the family’s growing healthcare expenses, donations were collected by from around the state. As the donations were being delivered on Valentines Day, someone broke into the delivery van as the driver and crew were stopped for lunch. $3,000 in statewide donations were stolen. News quickly spread about the theft – until word reached Anderson Cooper. The gift of whole-house clean air Cooper had his production team call IQAir President Frank Hammes and the IQAir Clean Air Team to help transform Jaelyn’s home into a clean-air sanctuary. Cooper had his production team call the IQAir President Frank Hammes and the Clean Air Team to help transform Jaelyn’s home into a clean-air sanctuary. “I told them we’d be happy to help,” said Frank Hammes. “But the Clean Air Team doesn’t cut corners. On hearing of the family, we had reason to believe there may be additional environmental problems with the home. We told them we would donate the air cleaning system, but only if the Clean Air Team could do a full indoor air quality inspection of the home.” Just after the heart transplant was completed, Cooper went on the air live and announced to Jaelyn’s family that a new PerfectPro would be installed at no cost to the family. Jaelyn’s parents were surprised, moved, and grateful. IQAir’s Clean Air Team installed a PerfectPro whole-house air purifier, along with a HealthPro Plus for Jaelyn’s room, and effectively turned Jaelyn’s house into one of the healthiest homes in America at the time. To ensure that Jaelyn’s recovery at home continued safely, an air quality monitor was also installed in the Anderson home. The air quality monitor provided her parents with continuous monitoring of the air quality in the house. While installing the PerfectPro, the Clean Air Team found that fears of mold in the home were well-founded. “It was really a worst-case scenario,” says Hammes. “There was toxic mold hidden inside every wall, in the ceilings, even beneath the carpet and cabinetry. To the naked eye everything looked perfectly fine, but our advanced scientific testing uncovered a severe indoor air quality problem that could have severely compromised Jaelyn’s health.” The Clean Air Team also enlisted the aid of Habitat for Humanity to strip the home completely down to studs. All drywall, flooring, carpet, cabinetry, and ceilings were removed so that the entire home could be remediated for mold. Then, the Clean Air Team set out to design for Jaelyn what would truly be one of America’s healthiest home. Hard tile surfaces replaced the old carpeting that once acted as a collection point for dust, allergens, and other environmental irritants. Only special materials were used that did not off-gas chemicals. Back to New Heating and Cooling in nearby Homosassa, Florida, handled the installation of the PerfectPro. So Cal Air Dynamics in Tarzana, California donated air conditioning and ductwork, helping the Clean Air Team give Jaelyn the healthy home she needed. “The monitoring station indicated the air in the home was at 95% purity and climbing within just an hour of activating her air cleaning system.” The finishing touch came when the Clean Air Team arrived onsite to test the air in the house before Jaelyn returned home. “The monitoring station indicated the air in the home was at 95% purity and climbing within just an hour of activating her air cleaning system,” Hammes said, beaming. The takeaway With the PerfectPro installed, Jaelyn’s family found comfort in knowing that Jaelyn could breathe clean air, helping make Jaelyn’s entire house one of the healthiest homes in America. See how Jaelyn’s parents reacted to the news that they received one of America’s healthiest homes.","

When Anderson Cooper, then host of the daytime TV show “Anderson Live,” learned that young Jaelyn Anderson needed hospital-quality air to breathe at home following her successful heart transplant, he turned to IQAir, the world leader in medical-grade air filtration.

Thieves broke into a van on Valentine’s Day and stole the money Jaelyn’s family was going to receive to buy an air purifier for their home in Port Richey, Florida.¹ When Cooper heard about it, he knew he had to act.

Raising money for a new heart

Five months after Jaelyn was born, she experienced problems breathing. After being taken to the hospital, she was diagnosed with the genetic disorder myocarditis, causing her heart to expand and her right lung to collapse. She urgently required a heart transplant to live and was placed on a donation waiting list.²

Jaelyn’s extended family sought to raise money for the family’s living expenses and to help prepare the home for Jaelyn’s recovery in case she received a suitable heart donation. The home needed to be remodelled for her recovery, including the removal of suspected mold, rotten wood, and indoor air contaminants. Jaelyn’s health would also require clean, medical-grade air to help make her living environment safe.

Mechanical media can provide better performance over time when helping filter viruses.

After word spread about Jaelyn’s needs and the family’s growing healthcare expenses, donations were collected by from around the state. As the donations were being delivered on Valentines Day, someone broke into the delivery van as the driver and crew were stopped for lunch. $3,000 in statewide donations were stolen.

News quickly spread about the theft – until word reached Anderson Cooper.

The gift of whole-house clean air

Cooper had his production team call IQAir President Frank Hammes and the IQAir Clean Air Team to help transform Jaelyn’s home into a clean-air sanctuary.

Cooper had his production team call the IQAir President Frank Hammes and the Clean Air Team to help transform Jaelyn’s home into a clean-air sanctuary.

“I told them we’d be happy to help,” said Frank Hammes. “But the Clean Air Team doesn’t cut corners. On hearing of the family, we had reason to believe there may be additional environmental problems with the home. We told them we would donate the air cleaning system, but only if the Clean Air Team could do a full indoor air quality inspection of the home.”

Just after the heart transplant was completed, Cooper went on the air live and announced to Jaelyn’s family that a new Perfect Pro would be installed at no cost to the family. Jaelyn’s parents were surprised, moved, and grateful.

IQAir’s Clean Air Team installed a PerfectPro whole-house air purifier, along with a HealthPro Plus for Jaelyn’s room, and effectively turned Jaelyn’s house into one of the healthiest homes in America at the time.

To ensure that Jaelyn’s recovery at home continued safely, an air quality monitor was also installed in the Anderson home. The air quality monitor provided her parents with continuous monitoring of the air quality in the house.

While installing the PerfectPro, the Clean Air Team found that fears of mold in the home were well-founded.

“It was really a worst-case scenario,” says Hammes. “There was toxic mold hidden inside every wall, in the ceilings, even beneath the carpet and cabinetry. To the naked eye everything looked perfectly fine, but our advanced scientific testing uncovered a severe indoor air quality problem that could have severely compromised Jaelyn’s health.”

The Clean Air Team also enlisted the aid of Habitat for Humanity to strip the home completely down to studs. All drywall, flooring, carpet, cabinetry, and ceilings were removed so that the entire home could be remediated for mold. Then, the Clean Air Team set out to design for Jaelyn what would truly be one of America’s healthiest home.

Hard tile surfaces replaced the old carpeting that once acted as a collection point for dust, allergens, and other environmental irritants. Only special materials were used that did not off-gas chemicals. Back to New Heating and Cooling in nearby Homosassa, Florida, handled the installation of the PerfectPro.

So Cal Air Dynamics in Tarzana, California donated air conditioning and ductwork, helping the Clean Air Team give Jaelyn the healthy home she needed.

“The monitoring station indicated the air in the home was at 95% purity and climbing within just an hour of activating her air cleaning system.”

The finishing touch came when the Clean Air Team arrived onsite to test the air in the house before Jaelyn returned home. “The monitoring station indicated the air in the home was at 95% purity and climbing within just an hour of activating her air cleaning system,” Hammes said, beaming.

The takeaway

With the PerfectPro installed, Jaelyn’s family found comfort in knowing that Jaelyn could breathe clean air, helping make Jaelyn’s entire house one of the healthiest homes in America.

See how Jaelyn’s parents reacted to the news that they received one of America’s healthiest homes.

","iqair-and-anderson-cooper-help-protect-jaelyns-new-heart","gid://shopify/Article/564867268686","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/iqair-and-anderson-cooper-help-protect-jaelyns-new-heart","2016-09-16T20:20:18Z",[670,1125,851],"IQAir and Anderson Cooper help protect Jaelyn's new heart",{"_10":1243,"_1130":1244,"_597":1245,"_1133":1246,"_490":1247},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272750608462","Jaelyn laughing","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Jaelyn.jpg?v=1775161123",839,674,{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1249,"_1094":1250,"_1110":1251,"_1112":1251,"_1113":1252,"_1115":1253,"_962":1254,"_10":1255,"_1119":1256,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1257,"_594":1258,"_558":1260,"_1127":1261},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Asthma rates in the United States are increasing and are at record levels, but more than half of all children with the disease (and more than two-thirds of all adults) do not have an individualized action plan. Learn how to make an asthma action plan.","Asthma rates in the United States are increasing and are at record levels, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced this week. In fact, 13.6 percent of children and 12.7 percent of adults in the United States have been diagnosed with asthma, according to the report. Meanwhile, more than half of all children with the disease (and more than two-thirds of all adults) do not have an individualized action plan, a major concern for the CDC. An asthma action plan (also known as an asthma management plan) is a written plan that an asthma patient develops with his or her doctor to help control asthma symptoms. The plan also typically includes long-term asthma control strategies. “A key component for adults and children is to create and follow an asthma action plan,” said Christopher J. Portier, Ph.D., a CDC spokesman for “CDC encourages those with asthma to work with their doctors to take control of this disease.” Many government agencies and health organizations recommend the use of an air purifier as an asthma-control step in addition to seeing a doctor regularly and taking medications as prescribed. The American Lung Association offers the following asthma- and allergy-control guidance: Reduce or remove as many asthma allergy triggers from your home as possible. Use high-efficiency air purifiers and air conditioners and keep them in good repair. Control dust mites, especially in the bedroom. Contact the American Lung Association for more information. The CDC announcement in May was timed to coincide with National Asthma Awareness Month. “The information in this release is a stark reminder that asthma continues to be a major public health concern with a large financial impact on families, the nation, and our health care system,” Portier said. Some additional highlights from the CDC announcement. In 2010, an estimated 10.1 million (13.6 percent) children had been diagnosed with asthma in their lifetimes, and 7.0 million (9.4 percent) still had asthma. During 2001–2010, the proportion of persons with asthma in the United States increased by 14.8 percent. In 2008, children aged 5–17 years who had one or more asthma attacks in the previous 12 months missed 10.5 million days of school. Adults who were currently employed and had one or more asthma attacks during the previous 12 months missed 14.2 million days of workdue to asthma. IQAir is proud that the American Lung Association has selected IQAir as an educational partner to raise awareness on indoor air quality issues. In 2009, asthma accounted for 3,388 deaths, 479,300 hospitalizations, 1.9 million emergency department (ED) visits, and 8.9 million physician office visits. The estimated total cost of asthma to society, including medical expenses ($50.1 billion per year), loss of productivity resulting from missed school or work days ($3.8 billion per year), and premature death ($2.1 billion per year), was $56 billion (2009 dollars) in 2007.","

Asthma rates in the United States are increasing and are at record levels, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced this week. In fact, 13.6 percent of children and 12.7 percent of adults in the United States have been diagnosed with asthma, according to the report. Meanwhile, more than half of all children with the disease (and more than two-thirds of all adults) do not have an individualized action plan, a major concern for the CDC. An asthma action plan (also known as an asthma management plan) is a written plan that an asthma patient develops with his or her doctor to help control asthma symptoms. The plan also typically includes long-term asthma control strategies.

“A key component for adults and children is to create and follow an asthma action plan,” said Christopher J. Portier, Ph.D., a CDC spokesman for “CDC encourages those with asthma to work with their doctors to take control of this disease.” Many government agencies and health organizations recommend the use of an air purifier as an asthma-control step in addition to seeing a doctor regularly and taking medications as prescribed.

The American Lung Association offers the following asthma- and allergy-control guidance:

Reduce or remove as many asthma allergy triggers from your home as possible.
Use high-efficiency air purifiers and air conditioners and keep them in good repair.
Control dust mites, especially in the bedroom.
Contact the American Lung Association for more information.

The CDC announcement in May was timed to coincide with National Asthma Awareness Month. “The information in this release is a stark reminder that asthma continues to be a major public health concern with a large financial impact on families, the nation, and our health care system,” Portier said.

Some additional highlights from the CDC announcement.

In 2010, an estimated 10.1 million (13.6 percent) children had been diagnosed with asthma in their lifetimes, and 7.0 million (9.4 percent) still had asthma.

During 2001–2010, the proportion of persons with asthma in the United States increased by 14.8 percent.

In 2008, children aged 5–17 years who had one or more asthma attacks in the previous 12 months missed 10.5 million days of school. Adults who were currently employed and had one or more asthma attacks during the previous 12 months missed 14.2 million days of workdue to asthma.

IQAir is proud that the American Lung Association has selected IQAir as an educational partner to raise awareness on indoor air quality issues.

In 2009, asthma accounted for 3,388 deaths, 479,300 hospitalizations, 1.9 million emergency department (ED) visits, and 8.9 million physician office visits.

The estimated total cost of asthma to society, including medical expenses ($50.1 billion per year), loss of productivity resulting from missed school or work days ($3.8 billion per year), and premature death ($2.1 billion per year), was $56 billion (2009 dollars) in 2007.

","asthma-rates-higher-ever","gid://shopify/Article/564867399758","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/asthma-rates-higher-ever","2016-09-16T20:06:04Z",[1259,1125],"Allergies and Asthma","Asthma rates higher than ever",{"_10":1262,"_1130":1263,"_597":1264,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269138690126","asthma pump","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/103_asthma_desktop_9c16c207-fd44-4179-b5a9-4d98833bbb74.jpg?v=1748447796",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1266,"_1094":1267,"_1110":1268,"_1112":1268,"_1113":1269,"_1115":1270,"_962":1271,"_10":1272,"_1119":1273,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1274,"_594":1275,"_558":1276,"_1127":1277},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"There are plenty of studies that detail the risks of poor air quality for pregnant women and their fetuses. The studies provide ample evidence that expectant mothers should seriously consider investing in a high-performance air purifier.","There are plenty of studies that detail the risks of poor air quality for pregnant women and their fetuses. The studies provide ample evidence that expectant mothers should seriously consider investing in a high-performance air purifier.Now a new study of almost a quarter of a million women in Australia confirms a connection between air quality and healthy – or not-so-healthy – pregnancy. The study was published this month in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Researchers found that women living in high traffic-pollution areas had a 12 percent higher risk of developing a medical condition known as “preeclampsia.” The condition is also known as “toxemia.” Preeclampsia can cause a wide variety of health problems and even life-threatening risks for expectant mothers and their babies.Preeclampsia occurs when a pregnant woman develops high blood pressure or other symptoms in the late pregnancy, often in the third trimester, according to the National Institutes of Health. Although the exact cause of the disorder is unknown, diet, genes, and autoimmune disorders have been suspected causes. To that list, add exposure to air pollution from traffic.According to the new study, the risk of pregnant women developing preeclampsia increased to 30 percent for women in their third trimester, and even higher when other major risks factors for preeclampsia were also present.Past studies have outlined other serious health risks for pregnant women related to air quality. For example, a UCLA study of 2,500 women who gave birth in 2003 found that women who lived in areas with high levels of fine particle pollution were 10-25 percent more likely to give birth prematurely.The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)says there are many air quality issues that are of special concern for pregnant women. A recent report outlines at least four of them:1. Exposure to secondhand smoke, which can result in poor fetal development, reduced lung function, cognitive deficits and other serious health problems.2. Exposure to particle pollution, which can increase cardiovascular risk and has been linked to low birth weight.3. Ozone is a concern in both its man-made form and also as a result of dangerous ozone-generating air purifiers. These devices “emit ozone gas into the indoor air at levels that can irritate airways and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions,” according to the EPA. The EPA also notes that exposure to ozone has been linked to low birth weight babies, especially in the second or third trimesters.4. Exposure to cleaning and other household products, including those that emit vapors with volatile organic compounds. Paint fumes in particular can be hazardous to pregnant women and their fetuses.Click here to download a copy of the EPA report (PDF).A high-performance air purifier such as the New Edition HealthPro Plus or GC MultiGas from IQAir can help protect against airborne pollutants that put pregnant women and others at risk. Visitwww.iqair.comto read more about IQAir air purifiers that are rated #1 in protection against gases, odors, chemicals and smoke as well as particle pollution.","

There are plenty of studies that detail the risks of poor air quality for pregnant women and their fetuses. The studies provide ample evidence that expectant mothers should seriously consider investing in a high-performance air purifier.

Now a new study of almost a quarter of a million women in Australia confirms a connection between air quality and healthy – or not-so-healthy – pregnancy. The study was published this month in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. Researchers found that women living in high traffic-pollution areas had a 12 percent higher risk of developing a medical condition known as “preeclampsia.” The condition is also known as “toxemia.” Preeclampsia can cause a wide variety of health problems and even life-threatening risks for expectant mothers and their babies.

Preeclampsia occurs when a pregnant woman develops high blood pressure or other symptoms in the late pregnancy, often in the third trimester, according to the National Institutes of Health. Although the exact cause of the disorder is unknown, diet, genes, and autoimmune disorders have been suspected causes. To that list, add exposure to air pollution from traffic.

According to the new study, the risk of pregnant women developing preeclampsia increased to 30 percent for women in their third trimester, and even higher when other major risks factors for preeclampsia were also present.

Past studies have outlined other serious health risks for pregnant women related to air quality. For example, a UCLA study of 2,500 women who gave birth in 2003 found that women who lived in areas with high levels of fine particle pollution were 10-25 percent more likely to give birth prematurely.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)says there are many air quality issues that are of special concern for pregnant women. A recent report outlines at least four of them:

1. Exposure to secondhand smoke, which can result in poor fetal development, reduced lung function, cognitive deficits and other serious health problems.

2. Exposure to particle pollution, which can increase cardiovascular risk and has been linked to low birth weight.

3. Ozone is a concern in both its man-made form and also as a result of dangerous ozone-generating air purifiers. These devices “emit ozone gas into the indoor air at levels that can irritate airways and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions,” according to the EPA. The EPA also notes that exposure to ozone has been linked to low birth weight babies, especially in the second or third trimesters.

4. Exposure to cleaning and other household products, including those that emit vapors with volatile organic compounds. Paint fumes in particular can be hazardous to pregnant women and their fetuses.

Click here to download a copy of the EPA report (PDF).

A high-performance air purifier such as the New Edition HealthPro Plus or GC MultiGas from IQAir can help protect against airborne pollutants that put pregnant women and others at risk. Visitwww.iqair.comto read more about IQAir air purifiers that are rated #1 in protection against gases, odors, chemicals and smoke as well as particle pollution.

","traffic-air-pollution-risk-pregnant-women","gid://shopify/Article/564868055118","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/traffic-air-pollution-risk-pregnant-women","2016-09-15T21:43:48Z",[1146,1125],"Traffic air pollution is risk for pregnant women",{"_10":1278,"_1130":-5,"_597":1279,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269089472590","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/227_pregnant_woman_banner_8bfd3333-44b0-4356-88e2-2856f9cf18c1.jpg?v=1748003531",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1281,"_1094":1282,"_1110":1283,"_1112":1283,"_1113":1284,"_1115":1285,"_962":1286,"_10":1287,"_1119":1288,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1289,"_594":1290,"_558":1291,"_1127":1292},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Air pollution is a serious threat to pregnant women and their babies, and new studies show the connection between air quality, pregnancy, and newborns. Learn how indoor air pollution can be controlled through air purification.","Air pollution is a serious threat to the health of pregnant women and their babies, and new studies continue to define the connection between air quality, pregnancy and newborns. Pollution particles in the air, chemicals, gases and other air contaminants can affect birth weight and cause other health problems for mothers and babies. Fortunately, most – but not all – of the airborne contaminants associated with air pollution can be controlled in the indoor environment by using a high-quality air purifier. A study released in early February by the University of California, San Francisco, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a clear link between air pollution particle exposure and low birth weight. Researchers investigated more than 3 million births worldwide and found that the higher the rate of air pollution, the greater the likelihood of a baby being born at a low birth weight. According to the March of Dimes Foundation, about one in 12 babies born in the U.S. is born with a low birth weight. Low birth weight babies are susceptible to a variety of respiratory and other disorders and are more likely to have other medical problems later in life, including high blood pressure and diabetes. Particle air pollution, paint fumes and volatile organic compounds and other pollutants can be controlled indoors through the use of a high-quality air purifier. Pregnant women and new mothers who live in areas with elevated levels of air pollution, live near a freeway, or are concerned about exposure to chemicals and gases in the home should take action to protect themselves and their babies from the dangers in the air they breathe. An effective air purifier in the home should be part of the strategy. Equally important is avoiding air pollutants whenever possible. Examples of pollutants to be avoided include tobacco smoke, paint fumes and cleaning products. Mothers and babies, like everyone else, should avoid unnecessary exposure to ozone as well, and dangerous ozone-generating air cleaners should never be used. Sales of ozone-generating “air cleaners” are prohibited in California but allowed in other states. Exposure to ozone has been linked to low birth weight in babies, especially when the exposure occurs in the second or third trimester. Pregnant women and new mothers should also avoid unnecessary exposure to carbon monoxide, a component of air pollution that air purifiers cannot effectively filter. The most effective room air purifier for control of particle pollution is the IQAir New Edition HealthPro series. IQAir’s HyperHEPA filtration technology removes more than 99.97% of all particles in the air and is also proven effective against tiny ultrafine particles that other air cleaners ignore. In addition, IQAir’s New Edition room air purifiers are the quietest high-performance air purifiers ever made, which makes them a good fit for a newborn baby’s room. HyperHEPA technology is also featured in the IQAir Perfect 16 whole-house air purifier. For homes where secondhand smoke or chemicals and gases are an issue, IQAir recommends the IQAir GC MultiGas air purifier with advanced gas and chemical filtration.","

Air pollution is a serious threat to the health of pregnant women and their babies, and new studies continue to define the connection between air quality, pregnancy and newborns. Pollution particles in the air, chemicals, gases and other air contaminants can affect birth weight and cause other health problems for mothers and babies. Fortunately, most – but not all – of the airborne contaminants associated with air pollution can be controlled in the indoor environment by using a high-quality air purifier.

A study released in early February by the University of California, San Francisco, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a clear link between air pollution particle exposure and low birth weight. Researchers investigated more than 3 million births worldwide and found that the higher the rate of air pollution, the greater the likelihood of a baby being born at a low birth weight. According to the March of Dimes Foundation, about one in 12 babies born in the U.S. is born with a low birth weight. Low birth weight babies are susceptible to a variety of respiratory and other disorders and are more likely to have other medical problems later in life, including high blood pressure and diabetes.

Particle air pollution, paint fumes and volatile organic compounds and other pollutants can be controlled indoors through the use of a high-quality air purifier. Pregnant women and new mothers who live in areas with elevated levels of air pollution, live near a freeway, or are concerned about exposure to chemicals and gases in the home should take action to protect themselves and their babies from the dangers in the air they breathe. An effective air purifier in the home should be part of the strategy.

Equally important is avoiding air pollutants whenever possible. Examples of pollutants to be avoided include tobacco smoke, paint fumes and cleaning products. Mothers and babies, like everyone else, should avoid unnecessary exposure to ozone as well, and dangerous ozone-generating air cleaners should never be used. Sales of ozone-generating “air cleaners” are prohibited in California but allowed in other states. Exposure to ozone has been linked to low birth weight in babies, especially when the exposure occurs in the second or third trimester. Pregnant women and new mothers should also avoid unnecessary exposure to carbon monoxide, a component of air pollution that air purifiers cannot effectively filter.

The most effective room air purifier for control of particle pollution is the IQAir New Edition HealthPro series. IQAir’s HyperHEPA filtration technology removes more than 99.97% of all particles in the air and is also proven effective against tiny ultrafine particles that other air cleaners ignore. In addition, IQAir’s New Edition room air purifiers are the quietest high-performance air purifiers ever made, which makes them a good fit for a newborn baby’s room. HyperHEPA technology is also featured in the IQAir Perfect 16 whole-house air purifier. For homes where secondhand smoke or chemicals and gases are an issue, IQAir recommends the IQAir GC MultiGas air purifier with advanced gas and chemical filtration.

","air-purifiers-can-help-control-risk-pregnant-women-babies","gid://shopify/Article/564868120654","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/air-purifiers-can-help-control-risk-pregnant-women-babies","2016-09-15T21:08:42Z",[1146,1125],"Air purifiers can help control risk for pregnant women, babies",{"_10":1293,"_1130":1294,"_597":1295,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269398999118","pregnant woman lying","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/225_pregnant_woman_banner_ed196c87-58c3-4deb-8630-30394ed23b51.jpg?v=1750846192",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1297,"_1094":1298,"_1110":1299,"_1112":1299,"_1113":1300,"_1115":1301,"_962":1302,"_10":1303,"_1119":1304,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1305,"_594":1306,"_558":1307,"_1127":1308},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"IQAir installed air filtration devices for 7 schools in a heavily industrialized section of Long Beach. Learn more.","Following a successful air filtration demonstration project at Los Angeles and Long Beach area schools, IQAir North America was awarded a contract by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) to install and maintain high-performance air filtration devices at more than 40 schools in a heavily industrialized section of Long Beach.AQMD is the air pollution control agency for Orange County, California, and major portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties in Southern California.“We now know that these devices can be effective at reducing children’s exposure to particulate matter in the classroom,” said William A. Burke, Ed.D., former chairman of AQMD’s Governing Board. “This project will help reduce health effects that school children could suffer from high levels of outdoor air pollutants.”Particle pollutants of varying sizes, including PM10, PM2.5, PM1, and ultrafine particles, are frequently generated by industrial facilities – like the Port of Los Angeles – and vehicle traffic.Other sources of particle pollutants include: combustion pollen dust dirt smoke, including wildfire smoke Airborne particle pollutants are known to carry and help increase the spread of infectious diseases, such as SARS-CoV-2.1 Because PM2.5 is a solid aerosol, it can remain suspended in the air, allowing it to travel for a greater distance compared to respiratory liquid droplets. The virus, which can be deposited on surfaces along with PM2.5, can potentially lodge on the PM2.5 and be transported back into the air and further on.In the years since IQAir was awarded the contract, record-breaking wildfires in California have contributed to increased outdoor air pollution levels. Wildfires emitted additional levels of particulate matter into the state’s air and, with wildfires worsening, created an additional pollutant concern for classrooms.In response to increasing pollutant levels and airborne infectious disease concerns like COVID-19, California schools received a further requirement to monitor and respond to indoor pollutant concentrations in classrooms when the state passed Assembly Bill 841 in 2020.2Settlement-funded school air filtration projectFunding for the project came from a settlement with the City of Los Angeles and community groups to mitigate outdoor air pollutant impacts from the TraPac Container Terminal Expansion Project at the Port of Los Angeles.The approved project provided funding for the installation of high-efficiency air filtration devices for about 47 schools in the Wilmington area, a community heavily impacted by port-related activities.3 Additional filters were later installed in San Pedro area schools.4The type of device installed at each school varied depending on the existing HVAC system at each school.Funding also provided filter replacements and any needed system checks and repairs for five years. Installation of air filtration devices in Wilmington-area schools began in spring 2011.Pilot study proved air cleaning efficacyIn early 2008, AQMD conducted a pilot study of classroom air purification systems at three elementary schools located near refineries, other industrial facilities, and freeways in the Carson-Long Beach area.5The pilot study tested the effectiveness of various air filtration devices at removing pollutants from indoor air. The results showed that the low-cost, high-efficiency HVAC filters removed up to 90 percent of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor air.The results showed that the low-cost, high-efficiency HVAC filters removed up to 90 percent of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor air. Following the successful pilot study, in October 2008 AQMD approved $1.125 million from a penalty settlement with a nearby Valero oil refinery for high-efficiency air filtration devices at schools in the Long Beach and Los Angeles Unified School Districts.While MERV 13 is often suggested to help mitigate transmission of infectious aerosols, it has not been tested to filter ultrafine particles. By contrast, MERV 16 and above — including NanoMax filtration – has been tested and proven through the study to filter up to 90% of particles without requiring ventilation beyond what's required by building codes.In addition to the Wilmington project, four schools and one community center in San Bernardino and seven schools in the Boyle Heights area received air filtration devices funded by the UNOCAL Reformulated Gasoline Settlement Fund. AQMD worked closely with both communities to provide technical assistance and IQAir air quality technology during project implementation.Both communities are heavily impacted by cumulative sources of air pollution and were chosen for a pilot study to develop community exposure reduction plans as part of AQMD’s Clean Communities Plan.The success of these projects led IQAir to develop its own Clean Air Schools Program. The program was designed to help schools improve air quality through on-site assessment, installation, maintenance, air quality verification, monitoring, and renewal.(NOTE: This story was originally an AQMD press release. It has since been updated and rewritten.)","

Following a successful air filtration demonstration project at Los Angeles and Long Beach area schools, IQAir North America was awarded a contract by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) to install and maintain high-performance air filtration devices at more than 40 schools in a heavily industrialized section of Long Beach.

AQMD is the air pollution control agency for Orange County, California, and major portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties in Southern California.

“We now know that these devices can be effective at reducing children’s exposure to particulate matter in the classroom,” said William A. Burke, Ed.D., former chairman of AQMD’s Governing Board. “This project will help reduce health effects that school children could suffer from high levels of outdoor air pollutants.”

Particle pollutants of varying sizes, including PM10, PM2.5, PM1, and ultrafine particles, are frequently generated by industrial facilities – like the Port of Los Angeles – and vehicle traffic.

Other sources of particle pollutants include:

combustion
pollen
dust
dirt
smoke, including wildfire smoke\n

Airborne particle pollutants are known to carry and help increase the spread of infectious diseases, such as SARS-CoV-2.¹ Because PM2.5 is a solid aerosol, it can remain suspended in the air, allowing it to travel for a greater distance compared to respiratory liquid droplets. The virus, which can be deposited on surfaces along with PM2.5, can potentially lodge on the PM2.5 and be transported back into the air and further on.

In the years since IQAir was awarded the contract, record-breaking wildfires in California have contributed to increased outdoor air pollution levels. Wildfires emitted additional levels of particulate matter into the state’s air and, with wildfires worsening, created an additional pollutant concern for classrooms.

In response to increasing pollutant levels and airborne infectious disease concerns like COVID-19, California schools received a further requirement to monitor and respond to indoor pollutant concentrations in classrooms when the state passed Assembly Bill 841 in 2020.²

Settlement-funded school air filtration project

Funding for the project came from a settlement with the City of Los Angeles and community groups to mitigate outdoor air pollutant impacts from the TraPac Container Terminal Expansion Project at the Port of Los Angeles.

The approved project provided funding for the installation of high-efficiency air filtration devices for about 47 schools in the Wilmington area, a community heavily impacted by port-related activities.³ Additional filters were later installed in San Pedro area schools.⁴

The type of device installed at each school varied depending on the existing HVAC system at each school.

Funding also provided filter replacements and any needed system checks and repairs for five years. Installation of air filtration devices in Wilmington-area schools began in spring 2011.

Pilot study proved air cleaning efficacy

In early 2008, AQMD conducted a pilot study of classroom air purification systems at three elementary schools located near refineries, other industrial facilities, and freeways in the Carson-Long Beach area.⁵

The pilot study tested the effectiveness of various air filtration devices at removing pollutants from indoor air. The results showed that the low-cost, high-efficiency HVAC filters removed up to 90 percent of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor air.

The results showed that the low-cost, high-efficiency HVAC filters removed up to 90 percent of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor air.

Following the successful pilot study, in October 2008 AQMD approved $1.125 million from a penalty settlement with a nearby Valero oil refinery for high-efficiency air filtration devices at schools in the Long Beach and Los Angeles Unified School Districts.

While MERV 13 is often suggested to help mitigate transmission of infectious aerosols, it has not been tested to filter ultrafine particles. By contrast, MERV 16 and above — including NanoMax filtration – has been tested and proven through the study to filter up to 90% of particles without requiring ventilation beyond what's required by building codes.

In addition to the Wilmington project, four schools and one community center in San Bernardino and seven schools in the Boyle Heights area received air filtration devices funded by the UNOCAL Reformulated Gasoline Settlement Fund. AQMD worked closely with both communities to provide technical assistance and IQAir air quality technology during project implementation.

Both communities are heavily impacted by cumulative sources of air pollution and were chosen for a pilot study to develop community exposure reduction plans as part of AQMD’s Clean Communities Plan.

The success of these projects led IQAir to develop its own Clean Air Schools Program. The program was designed to help schools improve air quality through on-site assessment, installation, maintenance, air quality verification, monitoring, and renewal.

(NOTE: This story was originally an AQMD press release. It has since been updated and rewritten.)

","iqair-install-air-filtration-47-southern-california-schools","gid://shopify/Article/564868186190","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/iqair-install-air-filtration-47-southern-california-schools","2016-09-15T20:57:02Z",[1125,861],"IQAir brings clean air to Southern California Schools",{"_10":1309,"_1130":1310,"_597":1311,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269216579662","Kids heading to school","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/kids_running_3d630f00-1f35-4a91-b2d7-479579a52b0b.jpg?v=1749113503","pageInfo",{"_1314":71,"_1315":71,"_1316":1317,"_1318":1319},"hasPreviousPage","hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo1NjQ4NjgxODYxOTAsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE0NzM5NzMwMjIwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6MjN9","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo1NjQ4NjU2MzAyODYsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE0NzQzMDg0NTAwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6MTJ9","selectedTag",{"_558":1322,"_960":43,"_597":964,"_965":1323},"IQAir News - Parents",{"_967":968,"_969":1324,"_12":1322,"_960":43,"_597":964},"Blog","categorizedArticles",{"_1327":1328,"_1362":1363,"_1463":1464,"_1530":1531,"_1601":1602},"featured",[1329,1346],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1330,"_1094":1331,"_1110":1332,"_1112":1333,"_1113":1334,"_1115":1335,"_962":1336,"_10":1337,"_1119":1338,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1339,"_594":1340,"_558":1342,"_1127":1343},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Learn how HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particles far smaller than the HEPA standard, and why that matters for indoor air quality.","

Learn how HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particles far smaller than the HEPA standard, and why that matters for indoor air quality.

","Indoor air often contains a mix of pollutants that are easy to overlook—dust, pollen, smoke, and microscopic particles from traffic or combustion that can stay suspended in the air we breathe. For people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, reducing those particles indoors can make a noticeable difference in comfort and health. A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier designed to capture particles far smaller than the size standard commonly associated with HEPA filtration. In simple terms, it is built for environments where reducing ultrafine airborne particles is especially important. To understand why that matters, it helps to start with what standard HEPA filtration does well—and where higher-performance filtration can go further. What is HEPA filtration? HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores (1)(2). Originally developed during World War II to contain radioactive particles, HEPA technology has since become the industry standard for air purification. It works by forcing air through a dense mat of fibers, where particles are captured through a combination of interception, impaction, and diffusion. However, HEPA filters have limits. They struggle with ultrafine particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including some viruses and combustion particles. In real-world use, filtration performance also depends on the purifier’s design. If air can bypass the filter because of gaps or poor sealing, some polluted air may circulate without being filtered. In real-world use, those limitations can matter most when the air contains large amounts of ultrafine pollution—such as wildfire smoke, traffic-related combustion particles, or other high-particle events. In those situations, filter performance depends not just on the filter media itself, but also on how well the overall system is sealed. What is HyperHEPA filtration? A HyperHEPA air purifier is an air purifier built with filtration media designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than the 0.3-micron benchmark commonly associated with standard HEPA filtration. That matters because many of the particles people worry about most indoors are extremely small. Ultrafine particles from combustion, traffic pollution, smoke, and some airborne biological material can behave differently from larger dust or pollen particles, staying suspended longer and reaching deeper into the respiratory system. A HyperHEPA air purifier is not a different category of appliance from an air purifier—it is a higher-performance particle filtration approach within an air purifier. In practice, that means the purifier is designed not only around the filter media itself, but also around system sealing and airflow so that filtered air is less likely to bypass the filter. Why ultrafine particles matter Not all airborne particles behave the same way. Larger particles, like visible dust or some pollen, settle more quickly. Ultrafine particles are different: they are so small that they can stay airborne longer and move more easily through indoor spaces. That’s one reason wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related pollution can be so difficult to manage indoors. Even when the air looks clean, ultrafine particles may still be present. A higher-efficiency filtration system is designed to reduce more of those smaller particles from the air people actually breathe. How is HyperHEPA different from HEPA? When comparing HEPA and HyperHEPA filtration, the main differences come down to particle size performance and system design. Particle size range HEPA filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. This covers many common indoor particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores. HyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, extending protection deeper into the ultrafine range. Real-world filtration performance A filter’s effectiveness depends not only on the media, but also on how well the purifier is built. If air bypasses the filter because of gaps or leakage, overall performance drops. HyperHEPA systems are typically designed with tighter sealing so that more of the air moved through the unit is actually filtered rather than escaping around the filter. This difference matters most when indoor air contains a large amount of ultrafine pollution, such as smoke, traffic-related particles, or other combustion byproducts. How to think about air purifier claims Not every air-cleaning technology works in the same way. Some systems are designed to capture pollutants, while others claim to destroy, neutralize, or transform them. That distinction matters. Physical filtration removes particles from circulation by trapping them in filter media. Other technologies may rely on chemical reactions, ionization, or light-based processes, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the pollutant, the room, and how the system is used. When evaluating an air purifier, it helps to ask a few simple questions: What pollutants is it actually designed to address? A good purifier should clearly state whether it is built for particles, gases and odors, or both. Particle filters address things like dust, pollen, smoke, and ultrafine particles; gases and VOCs require sorbent media such as activated carbon. Does it physically remove particles from the air? This is one of the clearest signs of a strong air-cleaning approach. Filtration-based systems trap particles in filter media instead of trying to alter them in the air or push them onto nearby surfaces. Does it rely on added reactive chemistry or generate byproducts? If a purifier uses ozone, ionization, or other reactive processes, it’s worth asking what else may be created along the way. A stronger approach is one that removes pollutants without adding new ones to the room. Is its performance based on clear, testable standards? Look beyond broad marketing claims. CADR can help show how quickly a purifier reduces particles in a room under short-term test conditions, but it does not tell you how performance holds up over time. CCM is useful because it reflects how well a purifier continues performing as filters load with pollutants, giving a better picture of long-term effectiveness. A stronger air purifier claim is usually a simpler one: capture pollutants efficiently, move enough air, and maintain that performance over time. Conclusion A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier built to capture extremely small airborne particles—well beyond the particle-size range most people associate with standard HEPA. That makes it especially relevant in situations where ultrafine pollution matters, such as wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related indoor air concerns. The key idea is simple: don’t look only at whether a purifier says “HEPA.” Look at how small a particle it is designed to capture, how the system is sealed, and whether the overall design supports real-world performance over time.","

Indoor air often contains a mix of pollutants that are easy to overlook—dust, pollen, smoke, and microscopic particles from traffic or combustion that can stay suspended in the air we breathe. For people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, reducing those particles indoors can make a noticeable difference in comfort and health.

A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier designed to capture particles far smaller than the size standard commonly associated with HEPA filtration. In simple terms, it is built for environments where reducing ultrafine airborne particles is especially important.

To understand why that matters, it helps to start with what standard HEPA filtration does well—and where higher-performance filtration can go further.

What is HEPA filtration?

HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores (1)(2).

Originally developed during World War II to contain radioactive particles, HEPA technology has since become the industry standard for air purification. It works by forcing air through a dense mat of fibers, where particles are captured through a combination of interception, impaction, and diffusion.

However, HEPA filters have limits. They struggle with ultrafine particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including some viruses and combustion particles. In real-world use, filtration performance also depends on the purifier’s design. If air can bypass the filter because of gaps or poor sealing, some polluted air may circulate without being filtered.

In real-world use, those limitations can matter most when the air contains large amounts of ultrafine pollution—such as wildfire smoke, traffic-related combustion particles, or other high-particle events. In those situations, filter performance depends not just on the filter media itself, but also on how well the overall system is sealed.

What is HyperHEPA filtration?

A HyperHEPA air purifier is an air purifier built with filtration media designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than the 0.3-micron benchmark commonly associated with standard HEPA filtration.

That matters because many of the particles people worry about most indoors are extremely small. Ultrafine particles from combustion, traffic pollution, smoke, and some airborne biological material can behave differently from larger dust or pollen particles, staying suspended longer and reaching deeper into the respiratory system.

$\"\"$

A HyperHEPA air purifier is not a different category of appliance from an air purifier—it is a higher-performance particle filtration approach within an air purifier. In practice, that means the purifier is designed not only around the filter media itself, but also around system sealing and airflow so that filtered air is less likely to bypass the filter.

Why ultrafine particles matter

Not all airborne particles behave the same way. Larger particles, like visible dust or some pollen, settle more quickly. Ultrafine particles are different: they are so small that they can stay airborne longer and move more easily through indoor spaces.

That’s one reason wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related pollution can be so difficult to manage indoors. Even when the air looks clean, ultrafine particles may still be present. A higher-efficiency filtration system is designed to reduce more of those smaller particles from the air people actually breathe.

How is HyperHEPA different from HEPA?

When comparing HEPA and HyperHEPA filtration, the main differences come down to particle size performance and system design.

Particle size range

\nHEPA filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. This covers many common indoor particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores.
\nHyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, extending protection deeper into the ultrafine range.

Real-world filtration performance

A filter’s effectiveness depends not only on the media, but also on how well the purifier is built. If air bypasses the filter because of gaps or leakage, overall performance drops.
HyperHEPA systems are typically designed with tighter sealing so that more of the air moved through the unit is actually filtered rather than escaping around the filter.

This difference matters most when indoor air contains a large amount of ultrafine pollution, such as smoke, traffic-related particles, or other combustion byproducts.

How to think about air purifier claims

Not every air-cleaning technology works in the same way. Some systems are designed to capture pollutants, while others claim to destroy, neutralize, or transform them.

That distinction matters. Physical filtration removes particles from circulation by trapping them in filter media. Other technologies may rely on chemical reactions, ionization, or light-based processes, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the pollutant, the room, and how the system is used.

When evaluating an air purifier, it helps to ask a few simple questions:

\nWhat pollutants is it actually designed to address? A good purifier should clearly state whether it is built for particles, gases and odors, or both. Particle filters address things like dust, pollen, smoke, and ultrafine particles; gases and VOCs require sorbent media such as activated carbon.
\nDoes it physically remove particles from the air? This is one of the clearest signs of a strong air-cleaning approach. Filtration-based systems trap particles in filter media instead of trying to alter them in the air or push them onto nearby surfaces.
\nDoes it rely on added reactive chemistry or generate byproducts? If a purifier uses ozone, ionization, or other reactive processes, it’s worth asking what else may be created along the way. A stronger approach is one that removes pollutants without adding new ones to the room.
\nIs its performance based on clear, testable standards? Look beyond broad marketing claims. CADR can help show how quickly a purifier reduces particles in a room under short-term test conditions, but it does not tell you how performance holds up over time. CCM is useful because it reflects how well a purifier continues performing as filters load with pollutants, giving a better picture of long-term effectiveness.

A stronger air purifier claim is usually a simpler one: capture pollutants efficiently, move enough air, and maintain that performance over time.

Conclusion

A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier built to capture extremely small airborne particles—well beyond the particle-size range most people associate with standard HEPA. That makes it especially relevant in situations where ultrafine pollution matters, such as wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related indoor air concerns.

The key idea is simple: don’t look only at whether a purifier says “HEPA.” Look at how small a particle it is designed to capture, how the system is sealed, and whether the overall design supports real-world performance over time.

","what-is-a-hyperhepa-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/640810713166","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/what-is-a-hyperhepa-air-purifier","2026-04-14T16:30:40Z",[866,1146,1341,670],"Featured articles","What is a HyperHEPA air purifier?",{"_10":1344,"_1130":-5,"_597":1345,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272887283790","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/B_afb40b16-e8a9-4b1a-89a0-5ee72c36b124.jpg?v=1776184710",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1347,"_1094":1348,"_1110":1349,"_1112":1350,"_1113":1351,"_1115":1352,"_962":1353,"_10":1354,"_1119":1355,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1356,"_594":1357,"_558":1358,"_1127":1359},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Airborne pollutants can cross continents and oceans, impacting lives far from their source; learn what we can do to control transboundary pollution.","

Airborne pollutants can cross continents and oceans, impacting lives far from their source; learn what we can do to control transboundary pollution.

","Air pollution is often discussed as a local problem. However, our climate system is singular and interconnects the entire planet. The atmosphere operates without political borders, as these are a human construct. Every year, desert dust, wildfire smoke, crop burning haze, and industrial emissions travel hundreds or even thousands of miles from where they began. A pollution event in one region can shape air quality, health risks, and public warnings far away. That makes air pollution more than a domestic policy issue. It is a shared public-health challenge—one that requires collective action—better monitoring, better coordination, and a clearer understanding that the air over one country rarely belongs to that country alone. Air pollution is one of the clearest examples of how environmental risks can move across political boundaries (1). The science, monitoring tools, and policy models to respond already exist—but acting on them requires coordination that matches how the atmosphere actually works. Why air pollution becomes everyone’s problem Wind patterns, seasonal weather systems, and jet streams can carry pollution across regions, continents, and oceans. That means the health effects of a pollution source are not always felt only where emissions begin. This matters because air pollution is already a major global health risk. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution contributes to around 7 million premature deaths each year, many linked to respiratory and cardiovascular disease (2). The 2025 World Air Quality Report estimated that only 14% of global cities met recommended annual air quality guideline levels. When pollution crosses borders, it can complicate public-health warnings, blur accountability, and expose communities far from the original source. The costs are not only medical. Poor air quality can strain healthcare systems, disrupt schools and travel, reduce productivity, and create major economic losses (3). Yet despite this shared reality, air pollution is still too often treated as a domestic issue rather than a regional or global one. When desert dust travels thousands of miles One of the clearest examples of transboundary pollution is Saharan dust. Each year, powerful dust storms lift vast amounts of particles from North Africa and carry them westward across the Atlantic. In June 2020, a record-breaking Saharan dust plume—widely referred to as the “Godzilla Dust Storm”—traveled more than 5,000 miles, affecting air quality across the Caribbean, parts of the United States, Central America, and northern South America. During events like this, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations can rise sharply, increasing health risks for people with asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory vulnerabilities. (4). While Saharan dust can play ecological roles—such as fertilizing parts of the Amazon—its health impacts are also well documented. Studies have found that Saharan dust events can worsen respiratory conditions and are associated with increased respiratory health risks (5). Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing lung disease, may face greater risk during major dust episodes. Saharan dust affects health not only across North Africa, but also in parts of Europe and the Americas. Similar long-range dust transport also affects East Asia, where desert dust can degrade air quality in China, Korea, and Japan. How seasonal haze spreads across borders Though it’s a global practice, crop burning is particularly acute in South Asia and Southeast Asia. In South Asia, annual crop residue burning primarily in India and Pakistan creates a toxic smog that blankets Nepal, Bangladesh, and beyond (6). This seasonal haze spikes PM2.5 levels, leading to school closures, flight cancellations, and thousands of hospitalizations for respiratory distress. The 2013 “Airpocalypse” in China, meanwhile, saw PM2.5 concentrations reach extreme levels and reportedly drove Beijing Children’s Hospital to treat about 7,000 patients a day (7). The smog didn’t stop at China’s borders; it drifted into South Korea and Japan and prompted calls for greater regional cooperation (8). Airborne pollutants from Chinese factories and power plants can contribute to air quality problems in East Asia and beyond. While China has made progress in reducing domestic pollution—sulfur dioxide emissions have dropped by 75% between 2013 and 2020—the transboundary nature of the issue demands broader solutions (9). Wildfire smoke travels farther than most people think Wildfire smoke is another reminder that air pollution does not stop at the border. During Canada’s record-setting 2023 wildfire season, releasing an estimated 647 teragrams of carbon. The smoke spread across North America and, at times, across the Atlantic into Europe (10)(11). That smoke degraded air quality far from the fires themselves, exposing millions to elevated PM2.5 levels and producing hazy skies in cities thousands of miles away (12). Australia’s 2019–2020 bushfires offered another striking example. Smoke from those fires circled much of the globe and was detected as far away as South America and Antarctica (13). Greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed. As the climate warms, many regions are seeing longer and more intense wildfire seasons. In some places, fires are burning hotter, spreading farther, and producing more smoke over longer periods of time. Rather than blaming neighbors, greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed. Why national policy alone is not enough National air quality laws remain essential. They help countries regulate emissions, set standards, and build enforcement systems. But they are not enough on their own when pollution regularly travels beyond the jurisdiction that produced it. That is the central mismatch in transboundary air pollution: the atmosphere moves freely, while policy usually stops at the border. Domestic laws such as the U.S. Clean Air Act remain essential for source control and enforceable standards, but they cannot fully address pollution that regularly moves across jurisdictions (14). The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, signed in 2002, remains one of the few regional agreements focused specifically on cross-border air pollution (15). While it has fostered some cooperation—such as shared monitoring and emergency response protocols—its effectiveness is limited by national sovereignty concerns and uneven enforcement. Cross-border monitoring systems, regional directives, and international clean air initiatives offer stronger models for cooperation—especially when they combine shared data, common standards, and earlier public-health warnings (16)(17)(18). Without that kind of coordination, health warnings can come later, accountability can weaken, and communities downwind are left to manage risks they did not create. Collective action needed across borders Transboundary air pollution is a large-scale problem, but not an abstract one. The most effective responses combine earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and practical steps that reduce exposure while cutting pollution at the source. What governments can do Expanded cross-border data sharing, real-time air quality monitoring, and unified standards can improve public health responses. Strengthen legally binding treaties and agreements with clear accountability mechanisms to reduce emissions at the source. By investing in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, governments can cut pollution before it crosses borders. Enforce existing legislation and treaties to curtail industrial pollution and crop burning practices. What individuals can do Urge leaders to prioritize global air quality in climate and health agendas. Citizen-led air quality monitoring initiatives can help communities spot poor air days sooner and make better-informed choices, such as staying indoors or closing windows. Downloading a free air quality app can provide alerts when pollution levels rise On high-pollution days, running an air purifier and wearing a mask while outdoors can provide essential personal protection. Conclusion Air pollution may begin locally, but it often does not stay local. Dust, smoke, and industrial emissions can travel far beyond their source, exposing communities that had no role in creating them. That is why transboundary pollution requires more than national action alone. It requires shared data, earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and policies that reflect how the atmosphere actually works. The air people breathe is shaped not only by what happens nearby, but also by what happens upwind, across borders, and sometimes across oceans. Cleaner air depends on treating that reality as a shared responsibility.","

Air pollution is often discussed as a local problem. However, our climate system is singular and interconnects the entire planet. The atmosphere operates without political borders, as these are a human construct.

Every year, desert dust, wildfire smoke, crop burning haze, and industrial emissions travel hundreds or even thousands of miles from where they began. A pollution event in one region can shape air quality, health risks, and public warnings far away.

That makes air pollution more than a domestic policy issue. It is a shared public-health challenge—one that requires collective action—better monitoring, better coordination, and a clearer understanding that the air over one country rarely belongs to that country alone.

Air pollution is one of the clearest examples of how environmental risks can move across political boundaries (1). The science, monitoring tools, and policy models to respond already exist—but acting on them requires coordination that matches how the atmosphere actually works.

Why air pollution becomes everyone’s problem

Wind patterns, seasonal weather systems, and jet streams can carry pollution across regions, continents, and oceans. That means the health effects of a pollution source are not always felt only where emissions begin.

This matters because air pollution is already a major global health risk. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution contributes to around 7 million premature deaths each year, many linked to respiratory and cardiovascular disease (2).

The 2025 World Air Quality Report estimated that only 14% of global cities met recommended annual air quality guideline levels. When pollution crosses borders, it can complicate public-health warnings, blur accountability, and expose communities far from the original source.

The costs are not only medical. Poor air quality can strain healthcare systems, disrupt schools and travel, reduce productivity, and create major economic losses (3). Yet despite this shared reality, air pollution is still too often treated as a domestic issue rather than a regional or global one.

When desert dust travels thousands of miles

One of the clearest examples of transboundary pollution is Saharan dust. Each year, powerful dust storms lift vast amounts of particles from North Africa and carry them westward across the Atlantic.

In June 2020, a record-breaking Saharan dust plume—widely referred to as the “Godzilla Dust Storm”—traveled more than 5,000 miles, affecting air quality across the Caribbean, parts of the United States, Central America, and northern South America. During events like this, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations can rise sharply, increasing health risks for people with asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory vulnerabilities. (4).

While Saharan dust can play ecological roles—such as fertilizing parts of the Amazon—its health impacts are also well documented. Studies have found that Saharan dust events can worsen respiratory conditions and are associated with increased respiratory health risks (5). Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing lung disease, may face greater risk during major dust episodes.

Saharan dust affects health not only across North Africa, but also in parts of Europe and the Americas. Similar long-range dust transport also affects East Asia, where desert dust can degrade air quality in China, Korea, and Japan.

How seasonal haze spreads across borders

Though it’s a global practice, crop burning is particularly acute in South Asia and Southeast Asia.

In South Asia, annual crop residue burning primarily in India and Pakistan creates a toxic smog that blankets Nepal, Bangladesh, and beyond (6). This seasonal haze spikes PM2.5 levels, leading to school closures, flight cancellations, and thousands of hospitalizations for respiratory distress.

The 2013 “Airpocalypse” in China, meanwhile, saw PM2.5 concentrations reach extreme levels and reportedly drove Beijing Children’s Hospital to treat about 7,000 patients a day (7). The smog didn’t stop at China’s borders; it drifted into South Korea and Japan and prompted calls for greater regional cooperation (8).

Airborne pollutants from Chinese factories and power plants can contribute to air quality problems in East Asia and beyond. While China has made progress in reducing domestic pollution—sulfur dioxide emissions have dropped by 75% between 2013 and 2020—the transboundary nature of the issue demands broader solutions (9).

Wildfire smoke travels farther than most people think

Wildfire smoke is another reminder that air pollution does not stop at the border. During Canada’s record-setting 2023 wildfire season, releasing an estimated 647 teragrams of carbon. The smoke spread across North America and, at times, across the Atlantic into Europe (10)(11).

That smoke degraded air quality far from the fires themselves, exposing millions to elevated PM2.5 levels and producing hazy skies in cities thousands of miles away (12).

Australia’s 2019–2020 bushfires offered another striking example. Smoke from those fires circled much of the globe and was detected as far away as South America and Antarctica (13).

Greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed.

As the climate warms, many regions are seeing longer and more intense wildfire seasons. In some places, fires are burning hotter, spreading farther, and producing more smoke over longer periods of time.

Rather than blaming neighbors, greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed.

Why national policy alone is not enough

National air quality laws remain essential. They help countries regulate emissions, set standards, and build enforcement systems. But they are not enough on their own when pollution regularly travels beyond the jurisdiction that produced it.

That is the central mismatch in transboundary air pollution: the atmosphere moves freely, while policy usually stops at the border. Domestic laws such as the U.S. Clean Air Act remain essential for source control and enforceable standards, but they cannot fully address pollution that regularly moves across jurisdictions (14).

The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, signed in 2002, remains one of the few regional agreements focused specifically on cross-border air pollution (15). While it has fostered some cooperation—such as shared monitoring and emergency response protocols—its effectiveness is limited by national sovereignty concerns and uneven enforcement.

Cross-border monitoring systems, regional directives, and international clean air initiatives offer stronger models for cooperation—especially when they combine shared data, common standards, and earlier public-health warnings (16)(17)(18). Without that kind of coordination, health warnings can come later, accountability can weaken, and communities downwind are left to manage risks they did not create.

Collective action needed across borders

Transboundary air pollution is a large-scale problem, but not an abstract one. The most effective responses combine earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and practical steps that reduce exposure while cutting pollution at the source.

What governments can do

Expanded cross-border data sharing, real-time air quality monitoring, and unified standards can improve public health responses.
Strengthen legally binding treaties and agreements with clear accountability mechanisms to reduce emissions at the source.
By investing in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, governments can cut pollution before it crosses borders.
Enforce existing legislation and treaties to curtail industrial pollution and crop burning practices.

What individuals can do

Urge leaders to prioritize global air quality in climate and health agendas.
\nCitizen-led air quality monitoring initiatives can help communities spot poor air days sooner and make better-informed choices, such as staying indoors or closing windows.
\nDownloading a free air quality app can provide alerts when pollution levels rise
On high-pollution days, running an air purifier and wearing a mask while outdoors can provide essential personal protection.

Conclusion

Air pollution may begin locally, but it often does not stay local. Dust, smoke, and industrial emissions can travel far beyond their source, exposing communities that had no role in creating them.

That is why transboundary pollution requires more than national action alone. It requires shared data, earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and policies that reflect how the atmosphere actually works.

The air people breathe is shaped not only by what happens nearby, but also by what happens upwind, across borders, and sometimes across oceans. Cleaner air depends on treating that reality as a shared responsibility.

","one-planet-one-climate-system","gid://shopify/Article/641100578894","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/one-planet-one-climate-system","2026-04-13T16:37:20Z",[1146,655,1341],"One planet, one climate system: Transboundary pollution requires collective action",{"_10":1360,"_1130":-5,"_597":1361,"_1133":1246,"_490":1247},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272868999246","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/A_14d48647-0d54-411d-9484-c7942b27563b.jpg?v=1776098281","latest",[1364,1382,1398,1414,1431,1447],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1365,"_1094":1366,"_1110":1367,"_1112":1368,"_1113":1369,"_1115":1370,"_962":1371,"_10":1372,"_1119":1373,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1374,"_594":1375,"_558":1377,"_1127":1378},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Find out more about the Smoke Show Fire currently active in Mississippi and its impact on surrounding areas.","

Find out more about the Smoke Show Fire currently active in Mississippi and its impact on surrounding areas.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire is an active wildfire burning near New Augusta in Perry County, Mississippi. Located in the southeastern region of the state, the fire is being closely monitored through national tracking systems, including the National Interagency Fire Center. Which cities or areas are affected by the Smoke Show Fire? The cities and areas affected by the Smoke Show Fire include: New Augusta Perry County What is the current containment status of the Smoke Show Fire? As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire has burned 4,896.2 acres and remains 0% contained. Fire response efforts are being led by the U.S. Forest Service in coordination with the Mississippi Interagency Coordination Center, though detailed progress on containment operations has not been publicly disclosed. (2) Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? There are no reported mandatory evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, or active emergency alerts associated with the Smoke Show Fire. Additionally, there are no confirmed road closures, shelter activations, or curfew measures in place. Residents are encouraged to remain informed through local emergency management authorities for any potential updates. 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 April 16, 2026, this fire is 0% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire is an active wildfire burning near New Augusta in Perry County, Mississippi.

Located in the southeastern region of the state, the fire is being closely monitored through national tracking systems, including the National Interagency Fire Center.

Which cities or areas are affected by the Smoke Show Fire?

The cities and areas affected by the Smoke Show Fire include:

New Augusta
Perry County

What is the current containment status of the Smoke Show Fire?

As of April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire has burned 4,896.2 acres and remains 0% contained.

Fire response efforts are being led by the U.S. Forest Service in coordination with the Mississippi Interagency Coordination Center, though detailed progress on containment operations has not been publicly disclosed. (2)

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There are no reported mandatory evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, or active emergency alerts associated with the Smoke Show Fire.

Additionally, there are no confirmed road closures, shelter activations, or curfew measures in place. Residents are encouraged to remain informed through local emergency management authorities for any potential updates.

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 April 16, 2026, this fire is 0% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-smoke-show-fire-mississippi","gid://shopify/Article/641370521678","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-smoke-show-fire-mississippi","2026-04-16T09:01:59Z",[1146,655,1376],"Wildfire","Wildfire Map Spotlight: Smoke Show Fire, Mississippi",{"_10":1379,"_1130":1380,"_597":1381,"_1133":1246,"_490":1247},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272920281166","Forest wrapped in a haze of smoke","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire8Desktop_e63372d4-40ee-4e96-96f5-d12f4bad97c2.jpg?v=1776406141",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1383,"_1094":1384,"_1110":1385,"_1112":1386,"_1113":1387,"_1115":1388,"_962":1389,"_10":1390,"_1119":1391,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1392,"_594":1393,"_558":1394,"_1127":1395},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Chiang Mai records unhealthy air with AQI above 150 due to seasonal burning and haze. Learn more about causes and expected improvements.","

Chiang Mai records unhealthy air with AQI above 150 due to seasonal burning and haze. Learn more about causes and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Chiang Mai? As of April 16, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+7) Chiang Mai is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range. Elevated PM2.5 concentrations are the primary pollutant, contributing to dense haze and reduced visibility across the region. Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Chiang Mai’s air quality map. While pollution levels are currently elevated, long-term data suggest more moderate conditions overall. In 2025, Chiang Mai recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 18.2 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 63, placing it in the Moderate category and 3.6 times above the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. Air quality map of Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Chiang Mai? Short-term improvements depend largely on weather changes. Stronger winds and rainfall can help disperse accumulated pollutants and reduce PM2.5 concentrations. However, during the late dry season in northern Thailand, air quality often remains poor due to persistent haze and limited atmospheric mixing. Pollution levels may continue to fluctuate in the coming days, with more noticeable improvement expected only when consistent rainfall arrives and regional burning activity declines (1). Hourly air quality forecast for Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Chiang Mai? Air pollution in Chiang Mai is primarily driven by seasonal biomass burning across northern Thailand and neighboring countries. Agricultural burning, forest fires, and land clearing release large volumes of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel long distances and accumulate over the region (2). Local sources also contribute to the problem. Vehicle emissions, urban activities, and small-scale industries add to PM2.5 levels, especially in densely populated areas. The region’s mountainous geography further exacerbates pollution by trapping air masses and limiting dispersion (3). Dry season conditions, including low wind speeds and minimal rainfall, allow pollutants to build up and persist, leading to recurring haze episodes each year. 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 Chiang Mai?

As of April 16, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+7) Chiang Mai is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range.

Elevated PM2.5 concentrations are the primary pollutant, contributing to dense haze and reduced visibility across the region.

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Chiang Mai’s air quality map.

While pollution levels are currently elevated, long-term data suggest more moderate conditions overall. In 2025, Chiang Mai recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 18.2 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 63, placing it in the Moderate category and 3.6 times above the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

$\"\"$ Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Chiang Mai?

Short-term improvements depend largely on weather changes. Stronger winds and rainfall can help disperse accumulated pollutants and reduce PM2.5 concentrations. However, during the late dry season in northern Thailand, air quality often remains poor due to persistent haze and limited atmospheric mixing. Pollution levels may continue to fluctuate in the coming days, with more noticeable improvement expected only when consistent rainfall arrives and regional burning activity declines (1).

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Chiang Mai?

Air pollution in Chiang Mai is primarily driven by seasonal biomass burning across northern Thailand and neighboring countries. Agricultural burning, forest fires, and land clearing release large volumes of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel long distances and accumulate over the region (2).

Local sources also contribute to the problem. Vehicle emissions, urban activities, and small-scale industries add to PM2.5 levels, especially in densely populated areas. The region’s mountainous geography further exacerbates pollution by trapping air masses and limiting dispersion (3).

Dry season conditions, including low wind speeds and minimal rainfall, allow pollutants to build up and persist, leading to recurring haze episodes each year.

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.

","chiang-mai-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-16-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641370226766","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/chiang-mai-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-16-2026","2026-04-16T08:06:02Z",[1146,655],"April 16, 2026: Chiang Mai among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_10":1396,"_1130":-5,"_597":1397,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272909107278","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/ChiangMaiDesktop_98648d1b-fc97-4573-81c9-1a3e9d993e5e.jpg?v=1776326769",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1399,"_1094":1400,"_1110":1401,"_1112":1402,"_1113":1403,"_1115":1404,"_962":1405,"_10":1406,"_1119":1407,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1408,"_594":1409,"_558":1410,"_1127":1411},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in China? As of April 16, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 1:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, UTC+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025. Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China? As of April 16, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Aksu Baise Beijing Changchun Chengde Hebi Jinzhou Tangshan Tianjin Xinxiang Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map. Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in China? With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold. More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1). What is causing poor air quality in China? The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions. Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (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 China?

As of April 16, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 1:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, UTC+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China?

As of April 16, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in China?

With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold.

More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1).

What is causing poor air quality in China?

The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions.

Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (3).

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.

","china-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/637998563406","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/china-air-quality-alert","2026-04-16T05:01:18Z",[1146,655],"China Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1412,"_1130":-5,"_597":1413,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272905896014","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/BeijingDesktop_4a227499-d0f8-457c-b33c-46d0da0bc051.jpg?v=1776315683",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1415,"_1094":1416,"_1110":1417,"_1112":1418,"_1113":1419,"_1115":1420,"_962":1421,"_10":1422,"_1119":1423,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1424,"_594":1425,"_558":1427,"_1127":1428},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.","

Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.

","What is the location of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1). Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3): River Oak, near Au Sable River Sherman, near Manistee River Evart, near Muskegon River Newaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams. What is the current containment status of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1).

Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3):

River Oak, near Au Sable River
Sherman, near Manistee River
\nEvart, near Muskegon River
\nNewaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River

Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/641367310414","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","2026-04-15T21:16:48Z",[1146,655,1426],"Molds","Indoor Air Quality Alert: Michigan Flooding",{"_10":1429,"_1130":-5,"_597":1430,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272903209038","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Flooding3Desktop_ae4ce3b2-5ee0-47ab-b7c4-f2183e4a60be.jpg?v=1776289283",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1432,"_1094":1433,"_1110":1434,"_1112":1435,"_1113":1436,"_1115":1437,"_962":1438,"_10":1439,"_1119":1440,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1441,"_594":1442,"_558":1443,"_1127":1444},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"Pakistan grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

Pakistan grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Pakistan? As of April 15, 2026, air quality in some parts of Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 10:30 AM (Pakistan Standard Time), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy.” This level is nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, making Pakistan the most polluted country. Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan? As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Faisalabad Lahore Multan Rahim Yar Khan Sargodha Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map. Lahore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Pakistan? Short-term improvements depend on weather. Wind, rain, and stronger mixing can lower concentrations within days. In spring (March-May), as temperatures increase, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5. Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2). What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan? The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhausts, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (3). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollen particles and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (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 Pakistan?

As of April 15, 2026, air quality in some parts of Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 10:30 AM (Pakistan Standard Time), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy.” This level is nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³, making Pakistan the most polluted country.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan?

As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Lahore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Pakistan?

Short-term improvements depend on weather. Wind, rain, and stronger mixing can lower concentrations within days. In spring (March-May), as temperatures increase, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5.

Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2).

What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan?

The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhausts, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (3).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollen particles and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (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.

","pakistan-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/637975527502","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/pakistan-air-quality-alert","2026-04-15T05:33:57Z",[1146,655],"Pakistan Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1445,"_1130":-5,"_597":1446,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272901275726","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/KarachiDesktop_735344e9-1572-4404-8886-f211f546eb3b.jpg?v=1776268438",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1448,"_1094":1449,"_1110":1450,"_1112":1451,"_1113":1452,"_1115":1453,"_962":1454,"_10":1455,"_1119":1456,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1457,"_594":1458,"_558":1459,"_1127":1460},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"India grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

India grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in India? As of April 15, 2026, air quality in India remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 10:30 AM IST (Indian Standard Time, GMT+5:30), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, India’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 48.9 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 134, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups\". This level is nearly 9.78 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing India sixth globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report. Air quality map of India and neighboring countries as of April 15, 2026, according to IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in India? As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across India are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Agra Asansol Delhi Gwalior Kolkata Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see India's air quality map. Delhi and Kolkata ranked among the most polluted cities globally, as of 10:30 AM (IST), April 15, 2026, according to IQAir. When will the air quality improve in India? Short-term improvements depend on favorable weather; winds, rain, and increased atmospheric mixing will help disperse pollutants. In spring (March-May), as temperatures rise, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5. Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants and dramatically reduces PM2.5 levels, as seen in Kolkata where monsoon averages drop to 20-21 µg/m³ compared to winter highs of 77-80 µg/m³ (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2). What is causing poor air quality in India? The root causes of air pollution in India include household emissions, power sector emissions, industrial activities, transportation, open burning of crops and waste, and dust, with household emissions contributing about 30-50% of ambient PM2.5 levels year-round (3). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, dust storms and resuspension of road dust in dry and semi-arid regions causing sudden PM10 spikes, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollens and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (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 India?

As of April 15, 2026, air quality in India remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 10:30 AM IST (Indian Standard Time, GMT+5:30), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, India’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 48.9 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 134, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups\". This level is nearly 9.78 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing India sixth globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of India and neighboring countries as of April 15, 2026, according to IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in India?

As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across India are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Agra
Asansol
Delhi
Gwalior
Kolkata

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see India's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Delhi and Kolkata ranked among the most polluted cities globally, as of 10:30 AM (IST), April 15, 2026, according to IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in India?

Short-term improvements depend on favorable weather; winds, rain, and increased atmospheric mixing will help disperse pollutants. In spring (March-May), as temperatures rise, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5.

Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants and dramatically reduces PM2.5 levels, as seen in Kolkata where monsoon averages drop to 20-21 µg/m³ compared to winter highs of 77-80 µg/m³ (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2).

What is causing poor air quality in India?

The root causes of air pollution in India include household emissions, power sector emissions, industrial activities, transportation, open burning of crops and waste, and dust, with household emissions contributing about 30-50% of ambient PM2.5 levels year-round (3).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, dust storms and resuspension of road dust in dry and semi-arid regions causing sudden PM10 spikes, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollens and allergens.

Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (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.

","india-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/638007312462","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/india-air-quality-alert","2026-04-15T05:03:44Z",[1146,655],"India Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1461,"_1130":-5,"_597":1462,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/272895541326","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/DelhiDesktop_6d994b01-ea6e-4e5c-b260-9150b0754791.jpg?v=1776229436","popular",[1465,1482,1498,1514],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1466,"_1094":1467,"_1110":1468,"_1112":1468,"_1113":1469,"_1115":1470,"_962":1471,"_10":1472,"_1119":1473,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1474,"_594":1475,"_558":1477,"_1127":1478},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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",[1146,655,1476,680],"Popular articles","How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_10":1479,"_1130":1480,"_597":1481,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"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",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1483,"_1094":1484,"_1110":1485,"_1112":1485,"_1113":1486,"_1115":1487,"_962":1488,"_10":1489,"_1119":1490,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1491,"_594":1492,"_558":1493,"_1127":1494},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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",[866,670,1476],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_10":1495,"_1130":1496,"_597":1497,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"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",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1499,"_1094":1500,"_1110":1501,"_1112":1501,"_1113":1502,"_1115":1503,"_962":1504,"_10":1505,"_1119":1506,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1507,"_594":1508,"_558":1509,"_1127":1510},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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",[1146,670,1476],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_10":1511,"_1130":1512,"_597":1513,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"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",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1515,"_1094":1516,"_1110":1517,"_1112":1517,"_1113":1518,"_1115":1519,"_962":1520,"_10":1521,"_1119":1522,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1523,"_594":1524,"_558":1525,"_1127":1526},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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",[670,1476],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_10":1527,"_1130":1528,"_597":1529,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"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",[1532,1549,1566,1583],{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1533,"_1094":1534,"_1110":1535,"_1112":1536,"_1113":1537,"_1115":1538,"_962":1539,"_10":1540,"_1119":1541,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1542,"_594":1543,"_558":1544,"_1127":1545},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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",[665,851],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_10":1546,"_1130":1547,"_597":1548,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"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",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1550,"_1094":1551,"_1110":1552,"_1112":1553,"_1113":1554,"_1115":1555,"_962":1556,"_10":1557,"_1119":1558,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1559,"_594":1560,"_558":1561,"_1127":1562},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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",[660,665,851],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_10":1563,"_1130":1564,"_597":1565,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"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",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1567,"_1094":1568,"_1110":1569,"_1112":1570,"_1113":1571,"_1115":1572,"_962":1573,"_10":1574,"_1119":1575,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1576,"_594":1577,"_558":1578,"_1127":1579},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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",[660,665,851],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s Air Quality Crusade in Gambia",{"_10":1580,"_1130":1581,"_597":1582,"_1133":1134,"_490":1135},"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",{"_1103":1104,"_1105":1584,"_1094":1585,"_1110":1586,"_1112":1587,"_1113":1588,"_1115":1589,"_962":1590,"_10":1591,"_1119":1592,"_1121":-5,"_1122":1593,"_594":1594,"_558":1596,"_1127":1597},{"_12":1107},{"_962":1109},"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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