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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.

","content","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.","contentHtml","

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.

","handle","cleaner-air-healthier-kittens-iqair-supports-tiny-but-mighty-rescue","id","gid://shopify/Article/634971062350","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/cleaner-air-healthier-kittens-iqair-supports-tiny-but-mighty-rescue","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2025-01-27T13:00:00Z","tags",[88,89],"title","Cleaner air, healthier kittens: Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue","image",{"_66":79,"_80":81,"_82":83,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269919354958","altText","Cat resting next to air purifier.","url","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/KittenRescue_Desk_b3d57834-7858-4bac-b89f-c734afea302e.jpg?v=1755513318","width",2880,"height",1500,"Pets","Success Stories","news","name","IQAir Staff Writers",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"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",[109,110,89],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s Air Quality Crusade in Gambia",{"_66":106,"_80":107,"_82":108,"_84":85,"_86":87},"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","Community","Featured Contributor",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"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",[109,110,89],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_66":124,"_80":125,"_82":126,"_84":85,"_86":87},"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",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"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",[110,89],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_66":140,"_80":141,"_82":142,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273486184526","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_cd749b43-0150-45f4-a731-3aaad86eb4f3.jpg?v=1779905052",{"_51":52,"_53":196,"_11":197,"_56":198,"_58":198,"_60":199,"_62":200,"_64":201,"_66":202,"_68":203,"_70":-5,"_71":204,"_73":205,"_75":206,"_77":207},{"_51":52,"_53":180,"_11":181,"_56":182,"_58":182,"_60":183,"_62":184,"_64":185,"_66":186,"_68":187,"_70":-5,"_71":188,"_73":189,"_75":190,"_77":191},{"_51":52,"_53":164,"_11":165,"_56":166,"_58":166,"_60":167,"_62":168,"_64":169,"_66":170,"_68":171,"_70":-5,"_71":172,"_73":173,"_75":174,"_77":175},{"_51":52,"_53":147,"_11":148,"_56":149,"_58":149,"_60":150,"_62":151,"_64":152,"_66":153,"_68":154,"_70":-5,"_71":155,"_73":156,"_75":157,"_77":158},{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"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",[162,163],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_66":159,"_80":160,"_82":161,"_84":85,"_86":87},"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","Health and Wellness","Popular articles",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"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",[179,162,163],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_66":176,"_80":177,"_82":178,"_84":85,"_86":87},"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","Air Quality",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"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",[195,162,163],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_66":192,"_80":193,"_82":194,"_84":85,"_86":87},"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","Air Cleaning Technology",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"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.

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

\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",[179,211,163,212],"How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_66":208,"_80":209,"_82":210,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273488543822","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_a8a07ca3-c3c0-4315-854e-f2a5aa9b0f22.jpg?v=1779917272","Climate","Wildfires",{"_51":52,"_53":296,"_11":297,"_56":298,"_58":299,"_60":300,"_62":301,"_64":302,"_66":303,"_68":304,"_70":-5,"_71":305,"_73":306,"_75":307,"_77":308},{"_51":52,"_53":281,"_11":282,"_56":283,"_58":284,"_60":285,"_62":286,"_64":287,"_66":288,"_68":289,"_70":-5,"_71":290,"_73":291,"_75":292,"_77":293},{"_51":52,"_53":266,"_11":267,"_56":268,"_58":269,"_60":270,"_62":271,"_64":272,"_66":273,"_68":274,"_70":-5,"_71":275,"_73":276,"_75":277,"_77":278},{"_51":52,"_53":251,"_11":252,"_56":253,"_58":254,"_60":255,"_62":256,"_64":257,"_66":258,"_68":259,"_70":-5,"_71":260,"_73":261,"_75":262,"_77":263},{"_51":52,"_53":236,"_11":237,"_56":238,"_58":239,"_60":240,"_62":241,"_64":242,"_66":243,"_68":244,"_70":-5,"_71":245,"_73":246,"_75":247,"_77":248},{"_51":52,"_53":219,"_11":220,"_56":221,"_58":222,"_60":223,"_62":224,"_64":225,"_66":226,"_68":227,"_70":-5,"_71":228,"_73":229,"_75":230,"_77":231},{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Find out more about the Bain Fire in California and how it is affecting air quality in Riverside County.","

Find out more about the Bain Fire in California and how it is affecting air quality in Riverside County.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of May 30, 2026, the Bain Fire was active along the Santa Ana River Bottom off Limonite Avenue and Bain Street in the Mira Loma neighborhood of Jurupa Valley, Riverside County, California (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? Cities affected by the wildfire included: Jurupa Valley Norco Riverside Wildfire smoke also affected air quality in many neighboring cities in Southern California. What is the current containment status of the wildfire? As of May 30, 2026, the Bain Fire had burned 1,497.1 acres and reached 100% containment (3). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? All evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, and related alerts have since been lifted following full containment of the fire. 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. On May 30, 2026, this fire was 100% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of May 30, 2026, the Bain Fire was active along the Santa Ana River Bottom off Limonite Avenue and Bain Street in the Mira Loma neighborhood of Jurupa Valley, Riverside County, California (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

Cities affected by the wildfire included:

Wildfire smoke also affected air quality in many neighboring cities in Southern California.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of May 30, 2026, the Bain Fire had burned 1,497.1 acres and reached 100% containment (3).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

All evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, and related alerts have since been lifted following full containment of the fire.

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

On May 30, 2026, this fire was 100% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-bain-fire-california","gid://shopify/Article/641591050318","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-bain-fire-california","2026-05-30T08:54:08Z",[179,211,212],"Wildfire map spotlight: Bain Fire, California",{"_66":232,"_80":-5,"_82":233,"_84":234,"_86":235},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273547788366","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire11Desktop_2d92157a-aa94-4b4b-bba7-30d4a10ad2b5.jpg?v=1780328733",839,674,{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Johannesburg's air quality is deteriorating as winter sets in, with coal-fired power plants, domestic burning, and industrial emissions contributing to unhealthy conditions. Learn more about the causes, affected areas, and expected changes.","

Johannesburg's air quality is deteriorating as winter sets in, with coal-fired power plants, domestic burning, and industrial emissions contributing to unhealthy conditions. Learn more about the causes, affected areas, and expected changes.

","Is the air quality good in Johannesburg? As of May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time, GMT+2), air quality in Johannesburg, South Africa, is poor, with the AQI at 170, classified as \"unhealthy,\" with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant. Johannesburg ranks as the most polluted major city in the world at this hour. These conditions pose serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The annual average PM2.5 concentration in Johannesburg for 2025 was 17.1 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 66, classified as \"moderate\" and 3.42 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Today's readings are significantly above that annual average, reflecting an acute winter pollution episode. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Johannesburg's air quality map. Johannesburg, South Africa, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, on May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. Air quality map of Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Johannesburg? The southern hemisphere winter, running from June through August, typically sees much higher pollution levels than the rest of the year, as weather conditions in winter are far more prone to smog formation with less sunlight, less vertical mixing, and pollutants accumulating near the ground. Meaningful relief is unlikely until spring brings warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and improved atmospheric mixing from September onwards (1). Hourly air quality forecast for Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Johannesburg? Johannesburg's unique topography on the Highveld escarpment, combined with high pressure systems, results in calm conditions with minimal wind, causing air pollution to become trapped over the city. The Johannesburg-Pretoria urban area sits in close proximity to the most industrialized region of South Africa, where coal mining, coal-fired power stations, and energy-intensive petrochemical, chemical, and steel industries generate significant pollutant loads (2). In winter, emissions increase as people burn wood and coal for cooking and heating, there are more grass and veld fires, and conditions are dry and dusty, causing air to recirculate over the region and accumulate pollution. The main sources are coal-fired power stations, industries, vehicles, prescribed burning, solid fuels for cooking and heating, and waste burning. High PM2.5 levels correlate with elevated SO2 and NO2, indicating that coal and fossil fuel combustion from power plants and industry, rather than open fires alone, are the primary drivers of the most severe pollution episodes (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 Johannesburg?

As of May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time, GMT+2), air quality in Johannesburg, South Africa, is poor, with the AQI at 170, classified as \"unhealthy,\" with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant.

Johannesburg ranks as the most polluted major city in the world at this hour. These conditions pose serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

The annual average PM2.5 concentration in Johannesburg for 2025 was 17.1 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 66, classified as \"moderate\" and 3.42 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

Today's readings are significantly above that annual average, reflecting an acute winter pollution episode.

For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Johannesburg's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Johannesburg, South Africa, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, on May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Johannesburg?

The southern hemisphere winter, running from June through August, typically sees much higher pollution levels than the rest of the year, as weather conditions in winter are far more prone to smog formation with less sunlight, less vertical mixing, and pollutants accumulating near the ground.

Meaningful relief is unlikely until spring brings warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and improved atmospheric mixing from September onwards (1).

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM (local time). Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg's unique topography on the Highveld escarpment, combined with high pressure systems, results in calm conditions with minimal wind, causing air pollution to become trapped over the city.

The Johannesburg-Pretoria urban area sits in close proximity to the most industrialized region of South Africa, where coal mining, coal-fired power stations, and energy-intensive petrochemical, chemical, and steel industries generate significant pollutant loads (2).

In winter, emissions increase as people burn wood and coal for cooking and heating, there are more grass and veld fires, and conditions are dry and dusty, causing air to recirculate over the region and accumulate pollution.

The main sources are coal-fired power stations, industries, vehicles, prescribed burning, solid fuels for cooking and heating, and waste burning. High PM2.5 levels correlate with elevated SO2 and NO2, indicating that coal and fossil fuel combustion from power plants and industry, rather than open fires alone, are the primary drivers of the most severe pollution episodes (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.

","johannesburg-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-31-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641649442894","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/johannesburg-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-5-31-2026","2026-05-31T09:30:06Z",[179,211],"May 31, 2026: Johannesburg among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_66":249,"_80":-5,"_82":250,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273537531982","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/JohannesburgDesktop_b72afcd7-f84d-48a1-8bb3-2d3819a73578.jpg?v=1780219813",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Find out more about the Saharan dust plume affecting parts of the Caribbean, Florida, and surrounding regions, including air quality impacts and public health guidance.","

Find out more about the Saharan dust plume affecting parts of the Caribbean, Florida, and surrounding regions, including air quality impacts and public health guidance.

","What is the location of the dust storm? As of May 31, 2026, a large Saharan dust plume, known as the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), is moving westward from the Sahara Desert in North Africa across the Atlantic Ocean and into the Caribbean, affecting air quality across parts of the region. The dust plume has reached the Cayman Islands and is affecting parts of Jamaica while extending across portions of the Caribbean Sea. Additional impacts are expected across Puerto Rico, the Windward Islands, and portions of Florida, particularly South Florida and Key West (1). In Colombia, minor concentrations have been detected along the Colombian Caribbean coast and near the archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina (2). The event is part of a recurring seasonal atmospheric phenomenon that transports mineral-rich dust thousands of miles across the Atlantic. Which cities or areas are affected by the dust storm? The cities and areas affected by the Saharan dust plume include: Bahamas Cayman Islands Colombian Caribbean coast Florida Gulf region Jamaica Key West, Florida Puerto Rico San Andrés Santa Catalina South Florida Providencia Windward Islands In Colombia, impacts are expected mainly across northern Caribbean areas including Magdalena, Bolívar, Sucre, and Córdoba, as well as sectors of the San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina archipelago (3). How long will the dust storm last? Current forecasts indicate that the Saharan dust plume will remain over portions of the Caribbean through the weekend and into early next week. Puerto Rico is expected to experience a denser plume on June 1 and June 2. Forecasters are also monitoring an additional dust plume that could reach the Cayman Islands around Tuesday evening, which may prolong air quality impacts into the following week. Multiple Saharan dust outbreaks are expected to continue moving across the Caribbean at intervals of approximately five to seven days into early June (4). Are there any alerts in place? Several public health advisories and air quality alerts have been issued across affected regions. In Jamaica, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has urged residents to limit exposure to Saharan dust due to increased risks of respiratory illness, allergies, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Residents with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions have been advised to remain indoors when possible and use protective measures when outdoors (5). In Puerto Rico, weather officials have warned that sensitive groups, including people with respiratory conditions, may experience health effects as dust concentrations increase, particularly during June 1 and June 2. In the Cayman Islands, health guidance recommends reducing strenuous outdoor activity, keeping windows closed, wearing masks outdoors when necessary, and using air purifiers indoors, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions. No evacuation orders or evacuation centers have been reported in connection with this Saharan dust event. Current alerts focus on air quality advisories and public health precautions. 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.","

What is the location of the dust storm?

As of May 31, 2026, a large Saharan dust plume, known as the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), is moving westward from the Sahara Desert in North Africa across the Atlantic Ocean and into the Caribbean, affecting air quality across parts of the region.

The dust plume has reached the Cayman Islands and is affecting parts of Jamaica while extending across portions of the Caribbean Sea. Additional impacts are expected across Puerto Rico, the Windward Islands, and portions of Florida, particularly South Florida and Key West (1).

In Colombia, minor concentrations have been detected along the Colombian Caribbean coast and near the archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina (2).

The event is part of a recurring seasonal atmospheric phenomenon that transports mineral-rich dust thousands of miles across the Atlantic.

Which cities or areas are affected by the dust storm?

The cities and areas affected by the Saharan dust plume include:

Bahamas
Cayman Islands
Colombian Caribbean coast
Florida Gulf region
Jamaica
\nKey West, Florida
Puerto Rico
San Andrés
Santa Catalina
South Florida
Providencia
Windward Islands

In Colombia, impacts are expected mainly across northern Caribbean areas including Magdalena, Bolívar, Sucre, and Córdoba, as well as sectors of the San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina archipelago (3).

How long will the dust storm last?

Current forecasts indicate that the Saharan dust plume will remain over portions of the Caribbean through the weekend and into early next week.

Puerto Rico is expected to experience a denser plume on June 1 and June 2. Forecasters are also monitoring an additional dust plume that could reach the Cayman Islands around Tuesday evening, which may prolong air quality impacts into the following week.

Multiple Saharan dust outbreaks are expected to continue moving across the Caribbean at intervals of approximately five to seven days into early June (4).

Are there any alerts in place?

Several public health advisories and air quality alerts have been issued across affected regions. In Jamaica, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has urged residents to limit exposure to Saharan dust due to increased risks of respiratory illness, allergies, skin irritation, and eye irritation. Residents with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions have been advised to remain indoors when possible and use protective measures when outdoors (5).

In Puerto Rico, weather officials have warned that sensitive groups, including people with respiratory conditions, may experience health effects as dust concentrations increase, particularly during June 1 and June 2.

In the Cayman Islands, health guidance recommends reducing strenuous outdoor activity, keeping windows closed, wearing masks outdoors when necessary, and using air purifiers indoors, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions.

No evacuation orders or evacuation centers have been reported in connection with this Saharan dust event. Current alerts focus on air quality advisories and public health precautions.

\n\n

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

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

","caribbean-air-quality-alert-saharan-dust-storm","gid://shopify/Article/641650065486","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/caribbean-air-quality-alert-saharan-dust-storm","2026-05-31T13:11:16Z",[179,211],"Caribbean Air Quality Alert: Saharan Dust Plume",{"_66":264,"_80":-5,"_82":265,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273537892430","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/DustStorm2Desktop_8cfd902f-89ee-4f9b-8a61-975e47dfcce2.jpg?v=1780234077",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Find out more about the Seven Cabins Fire burning in the Capitan Mountains of New Mexico, including evacuation updates, affected communities, and containment efforts.","

Find out more about the Seven Cabins Fire burning in the Capitan Mountains of New Mexico, including evacuation updates, affected communities, and containment efforts.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of June 1, 2026, the Seven Cabins Fire is burning in the Capitan Mountain Wilderness in Lincoln County, New Mexico, near Capitan Gap Road east of Capitan (1). The wildfire is located north of Capitan and approximately 25 miles northeast of Ruidoso in the Lincoln National Forest region. The fire is spreading through dry fuels and rugged terrain within the Peppin Fire burn scar area, creating difficult firefighting conditions. Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The cities and areas affected by the Seven Cabins Fire include: Boy Scout Mountain Capitan Mountain Wilderness Copeland Canyon Encinoso Gap Road Lincoln Pine Lodge area Ruidoso State Highway 246 corridor What is the current containment status of the wildfire? As of June 1, 2026, the Seven Cabins Fire has burned approximately 29,351 acres and remains 53% contained. Fire crews are using both direct and indirect suppression strategies to slow the fire’s spread, particularly south of Highway 246 and around the Pine Lodge area. More than 200 personnel, along with helicopters, engines, dozers, and water tenders, are assigned to the incident. Strong winds, low humidity, and extremely dry fuels continue to create critical fire weather conditions that may contribute to additional fire growth (2). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Evacuation orders remain in effect for several areas impacted by the Seven Cabins Fire. A Level 3 GO evacuation order has been issued for zones LIU-115 and LIU-118, as well as areas between State Highway 246 and the ridge top of the Capitan Mountains between Gap Road and Boy Scout Mountain. Residents in these areas are advised to leave immediately for their safety. Emergency shelters for livestock have been established in Capitan and Lincoln. Small livestock such as horses, goats, pigs, and chickens can be taken to the Lincoln County Fairgrounds in Capitan, while assistance for larger livestock is available through local emergency management services. Authorities have also issued forest closure orders around the Capitan Mountains Wilderness Area and implemented temporary flight restrictions to support firefighting aircraft operations. 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 June 1, 2026, this fire is 53% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of June 1, 2026, the Seven Cabins Fire is burning in the Capitan Mountain Wilderness in Lincoln County, New Mexico, near Capitan Gap Road east of Capitan (1).

The wildfire is located north of Capitan and approximately 25 miles northeast of Ruidoso in the Lincoln National Forest region.

The fire is spreading through dry fuels and rugged terrain within the Peppin Fire burn scar area, creating difficult firefighting conditions.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The cities and areas affected by the Seven Cabins Fire include:

Boy Scout Mountain
\n
Capitan Mountain Wilderness
Copeland Canyon
Encinoso
Gap Road
Lincoln
Pine Lodge area
Ruidoso
State Highway 246 corridor

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of June 1, 2026, the Seven Cabins Fire has burned approximately 29,351 acres and remains 53% contained.

Fire crews are using both direct and indirect suppression strategies to slow the fire’s spread, particularly south of Highway 246 and around the Pine Lodge area.

More than 200 personnel, along with helicopters, engines, dozers, and water tenders, are assigned to the incident. Strong winds, low humidity, and extremely dry fuels continue to create critical fire weather conditions that may contribute to additional fire growth (2).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders remain in effect for several areas impacted by the Seven Cabins Fire. A Level 3 GO evacuation order has been issued for zones LIU-115 and LIU-118, as well as areas between State Highway 246 and the ridge top of the Capitan Mountains between Gap Road and Boy Scout Mountain. Residents in these areas are advised to leave immediately for their safety.

Emergency shelters for livestock have been established in Capitan and Lincoln. Small livestock such as horses, goats, pigs, and chickens can be taken to the Lincoln County Fairgrounds in Capitan, while assistance for larger livestock is available through local emergency management services.

Authorities have also issued forest closure orders around the Capitan Mountains Wilderness Area and implemented temporary flight restrictions to support firefighting aircraft operations.

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 June 1, 2026, this fire is 53% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-seven-cabins-fire-new-mexico","gid://shopify/Article/641558970446","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-seven-cabins-fire-new-mexico","2026-06-01T06:20:11Z",[179,211,212],"Wildfire map spotlight: Seven Cabins Fire, New Mexico",{"_66":279,"_80":-5,"_82":280,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273543659598","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire5Desktop_6d02c671-05d3-4427-8f21-00d742d374f7.jpg?v=1780294819",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"A severe heatwave is affecting India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C) across the region. Learn more about ongoing heat risks and alerts.","

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

","Why is there a heatwave in South Asia? As of June 1, 2026, a prolonged heatwave is affecting South Asia, driven by strong high-pressure systems that trap hot air near the surface. Temperatures in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan have soared well above seasonal averages, with some areas approaching or exceeding 45-50 degrees Celsius (113-122 degrees Fahrenheit) (1). The heat arrived earlier than the typical May-June season. High-pressure systems dominate, trapping hot air near the surface like a dome, preventing it from rising and cooling, while sinking air compresses, warms, and blocks clouds, allowing relentless solar heating (2). Climate scientists say meteorological conditions are up to 4°C warmer than in the past, mostly ascribing the increased heat to human-driven climate change. Which cities or areas are affected by the heatwave? Several major cities across South Asia are experiencing extreme heat during this heatwave event, some of the affected include: India: Aheri, Ahmedabad, Barmer, Bikaner, Nagpur, Nanded, Nellore, Prayagraj, Raipur, Sambalpur and Vijayawada. Pakistan: Bahawalpur, Dadu, Dalbandin, Dera Ismail Khan, Faisalabad, Hyderabad, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sahiwal, Sibi, Sukkur and Turbat. Afghanistan: Farah, Kandahar Lashkar Gah and Mirabad. How long will the heatwave last? The heatwave began in early April 2026 and is expected to persist through the summer months across parts of South Asia. Forecasts for India and Pakistan indicate above-normal heatwave activity through the April–June period, while Afghanistan is also expected to experience prolonged extreme heat, particularly in southern regions where temperatures commonly reach 36–43°C (97–109°F) (3). Temperatures above 100°F (38°C) are likely to continue across much of the region until seasonal monsoon rainfall brings gradual relief later in the summer. It is possible that a strong El Niño projected for this summer may also contribute to more intense, longer-lasting heat waves and dry weather in South Asia (4). Are there any alerts in place? Multiple heat alerts are active across South Asia. Several regions in India were placed under orange alert for heatwave conditions, with authorities warning of increased heat-related illnesses and directing hospitals and livestock services to prepare accordingly (5). In Pakistan, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warned that heatwave conditions are expected to persist and advised residents to avoid direct sunlight and stay hydrated. Both countries have Heat Action Plans coordinated through disaster management authorities (6). Afghanistan's extreme summer heat typically affects outdoor workers and vulnerable populations, though formal heat-specific alert systems are limited compared to neighboring countries. Residents are advised to stay in air-conditioned spaces, avoid direct sun exposure, drink fluids, and check on elderly individuals. Outdoor workers should reschedule activities to cooler hours.","

Why is there a heatwave in South Asia?

As of June 1, 2026, a prolonged heatwave is affecting South Asia, driven by strong high-pressure systems that trap hot air near the surface. Temperatures in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan have soared well above seasonal averages, with some areas approaching or exceeding 45-50 degrees Celsius (113-122 degrees Fahrenheit) (1).

The heat arrived earlier than the typical May-June season. High-pressure systems dominate, trapping hot air near the surface like a dome, preventing it from rising and cooling, while sinking air compresses, warms, and blocks clouds, allowing relentless solar heating (2).

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

Which cities or areas are affected by the heatwave?

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

\nIndia: Aheri, Ahmedabad, Barmer, Bikaner, Nagpur, Nanded, Nellore, Prayagraj, Raipur, Sambalpur and Vijayawada.
\nPakistan: Bahawalpur, Dadu, Dalbandin, Dera Ismail Khan, Faisalabad, Hyderabad, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sahiwal, Sibi, Sukkur and Turbat.
\nAfghanistan: Farah, Kandahar Lashkar Gah and Mirabad.

How long will the heatwave last?

The heatwave began in early April 2026 and is expected to persist through the summer months across parts of South Asia.

Forecasts for India and Pakistan indicate above-normal heatwave activity through the April–June period, while Afghanistan is also expected to experience prolonged extreme heat, particularly in southern regions where temperatures commonly reach 36–43°C (97–109°F) (3).

Temperatures above 100°F (38°C) are likely to continue across much of the region until seasonal monsoon rainfall brings gradual relief later in the summer.

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

Are there any alerts in place?

Multiple heat alerts are active across South Asia. Several regions in India were placed under orange alert for heatwave conditions, with authorities warning of increased heat-related illnesses and directing hospitals and livestock services to prepare accordingly (5).

In Pakistan, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warned that heatwave conditions are expected to persist and advised residents to avoid direct sunlight and stay hydrated.

Both countries have Heat Action Plans coordinated through disaster management authorities (6).

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

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

","heatwave-map-spotlight-south-asia","gid://shopify/Article/641519910990","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/heatwave-map-spotlight-south-asia","2026-06-01T06:20:49Z",[179,211],"Heatwave Map Spotlight: South Asia",{"_66":294,"_80":-5,"_82":295,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273543725134","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Heatwave2Desktop_720a57e4-d768-4259-a1b2-661d166640d2.jpg?v=1780294858",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Find out more about the current air quality situation in Jakarta, Indonesia, including pollution causes, health concerns, and expected improvements.","

Find out more about the current air quality situation in Jakarta, Indonesia, including pollution causes, health concerns, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Jakarta? As of June 1, 2026, at 12:30 PM (local time), air quality in Jakarta, Indonesia, is poor, with an AQI of 153, classified as \"unhealthy,\" with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant. These conditions pose elevated health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. While air quality today is poor, broader annual trends underscore the severity of the pollution problem. PM2.5 levels across the greater Jakarta metropolitan area averaged 34.1 µg/m³ in 2025, corresponding to an AQI of 97, near the upper end of the moderate range and approaching “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” while remaining nearly six times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Jakarta’s air quality map. Jakarta, Indonesia, ranked as the 2nd most polluted major city, as of June 1, 2026, at 12:30 PM (local time). Source: IQAir. When will air quality improve in Jakarta? Air quality is forecast to remain poor through at least tomorrow, indicating that significant improvement is not expected in the immediate term. Hourly air quality forecast for Jakarta, Indonesia, as of June 1, 2026, at 12:30 PM (local time). Source: IQAir. Research and policy assessments suggest that sustained pollution control measures can improve air quality over time, as seen during periods when emissions reduction efforts were more effective (1). Air quality map of Jakarta, Indonesia, as of June 1, 2026. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Jakarta? Current poor air quality in Jakarta is primarily linked to heavy traffic congestion and the resumption of normal commuting activity following the Eid al-Fitr holiday period. Major contributors to Jakarta's air pollution include: Motor vehicle emissions from dense urban traffic Industrial activities and fossil fuel combustion Coal-fired power plant emissions in and around the Jakarta region Waste burning and construction-related emissions Seasonal pollution events, including biomass burning and forest fire smoke Research indicates that Jakarta's rapid urbanization and industrial growth have increased concentrations of pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), ozone (O₃), and carbon monoxide (CO), all of which can negatively affect public health (2). Recent policy analysis identifies transportation as one of the largest contributors to Jakarta's air pollution burden. Industrial facilities and power generation sources also remain significant contributors and may require stronger emissions controls (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 Jakarta?

As of June 1, 2026, at 12:30 PM (local time), air quality in Jakarta, Indonesia, is poor, with an AQI of 153, classified as \"unhealthy,\" with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant.

These conditions pose elevated health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

While air quality today is poor, broader annual trends underscore the severity of the pollution problem. PM2.5 levels across the greater Jakarta metropolitan area averaged 34.1 µg/m³ in 2025, corresponding to an AQI of 97, near the upper end of the moderate range and approaching “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” while remaining nearly six times the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Jakarta’s air quality map.

$\"\"$ Jakarta, Indonesia, ranked as the 2nd most polluted major city, as of June 1, 2026, at 12:30 PM (local time). Source: IQAir.

When will air quality improve in Jakarta?

Air quality is forecast to remain poor through at least tomorrow, indicating that significant improvement is not expected in the immediate term.

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Jakarta, Indonesia, as of June 1, 2026, at 12:30 PM (local time). Source: IQAir.

Research and policy assessments suggest that sustained pollution control measures can improve air quality over time, as seen during periods when emissions reduction efforts were more effective (1).

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Jakarta, Indonesia, as of June 1, 2026. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Jakarta?

Current poor air quality in Jakarta is primarily linked to heavy traffic congestion and the resumption of normal commuting activity following the Eid al-Fitr holiday period.

Major contributors to Jakarta's air pollution include:

Motor vehicle emissions from dense urban traffic
Industrial activities and fossil fuel combustion
Coal-fired power plant emissions in and around the Jakarta region
Waste burning and construction-related emissions
Seasonal pollution events, including biomass burning and forest fire smoke

Research indicates that Jakarta's rapid urbanization and industrial growth have increased concentrations of pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), ozone (O₃), and carbon monoxide (CO), all of which can negatively affect public health (2).

Recent policy analysis identifies transportation as one of the largest contributors to Jakarta's air pollution burden. Industrial facilities and power generation sources also remain significant contributors and may require stronger emissions controls (3).

\n\n

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

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

","jakarta-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-6-1-2026","gid://shopify/Article/641653080142","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/jakarta-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-6-1-2026","2026-06-01T07:15:21Z",[179,211],"June 1, 2026: Jakarta among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_66":309,"_80":310,"_82":311,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273544970318","Polluted skies of Jakarta","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/JakartaDesktop_836c581b-0090-431d-8ab6-cc065baf3d40.jpg?v=1780302000",{"_51":52,"_53":331,"_11":332,"_56":333,"_58":334,"_60":335,"_62":336,"_64":337,"_66":338,"_68":339,"_70":-5,"_71":340,"_73":341,"_75":342,"_77":343},{"_51":52,"_53":314,"_11":315,"_56":316,"_58":317,"_60":318,"_62":319,"_64":320,"_66":321,"_68":322,"_70":-5,"_71":323,"_73":324,"_75":325,"_77":326},{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Discover how air purifiers help with allergies. Learn about filtration technologies, selecting the right purifier, and managing allergy symptoms effectively.","

Discover how air purifiers help with allergies. Learn about filtration technologies, selecting the right purifier, and managing allergy symptoms effectively.

","Yes. Air purifiers can help reduce airborne allergens—but how much they help depends on how they work and what they are designed to remove. Many people seek relief from allergies by turning to air purifiers—but their effectiveness depends on how they work and what they are designed to remove. Understanding Allergies Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to otherwise harmless substances, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or pet dander. These allergens are often airborne, which is why air quality plays a role in symptom management. The role of air purifiers Air purifiers are designed to eliminate airborne pollutants and contaminants from the air, including allergens. By capturing and trapping allergenic particles, air purifiers aim to create a cleaner and healthier indoor environment, reducing exposure to allergens and alleviating allergy symptoms. However, the effectiveness of air purifiers in managing allergies depends on various factors, including the type of allergens present, the filtration technology used, and the size of the space being treated. When air purifiers help—and when they don’t Air purifiers can reduce airborne allergens, but they are not a complete solution on their own. They are most effective for particles that remain suspended in the air, such as pollen or pet dander. However, allergens that settle on surfaces—like dust mites in bedding or carpets—require additional cleaning and environmental controls. Filtration technologies and allergen removal HEPA Filters HEPA filters are widely used for capturing airborne particles. They have a remarkable capability to capture particles as tiny as 0.3 microns with great efficiency. This makes them highly effective in removing various allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from the air. HEPA filters consist of tightly packed fibers that form a complex network, which traps airborne particles as the air flows through. As a result, they play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality and alleviating allergy symptoms for individuals sensitive to common airborne allergens. Activated Carbon Filters While HyperHEPA filters excel at capturing particulate matter, activated carbon filters offer a unique advantage in adsorbing odors, chemicals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Activated carbon is highly porous, providing a large surface area for chemical interactions to occur. As air passes through the carbon filter, odorous molecules and chemical pollutants become trapped within the carbon pores through a process known as adsorption, effectively removing them from the air stream. This makes activated carbon filters an invaluable addition to air purifiers, particularly in environments where odors and chemical emissions are a concern. By addressing both particulate and gaseous pollutants, activated carbon filters contribute to creating a cleaner, fresher indoor environment, promoting respiratory health and overall well-being. HyperHEPA Filters HyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture ultrafine particles down to 0.003 microns, including viruses, bacteria, and combustion particles. Effectiveness of air purifiers in managing allergies Numerous studies have evaluated the efficacy of air purifiers in reducing allergy symptoms and improving overall indoor air quality (1)(2). While results may change depending on individual circumstances, research suggests that air purifiers can indeed help alleviate allergy symptoms by reducing the concentration of allergens in the air. However, it's essential to note that top-rated air purifiers should be used as part of a comprehensive allergy management plan, which may include allergen avoidance strategies, medication, and lifestyle modifications. Selecting the right air purifier for allergies Choosing an air purifier for allergies depends on matching the system to the type of allergens present and the size of the space. Filtration Efficiency Consider air purifiers that come with High-efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters to remove allergens effectively. HyperHEPA filters are highly efficient in capturing particles as tiny as 0.003 microns, capturing common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from the air. Opting for an air purifier with a HyperHEPA filter assures you of its ability to provide clean and allergen-free air for you and your loved ones. Room Size Consider the size of the room or area where the air purifier will be used to ensure adequate coverage and optimal performance. Select a model that is suitable for the square footage of the space and taking into account factors such as ceiling height and air circulation. An air purifier that is too small for the room may struggle to filter the air effectively, while one that is too large may consume unnecessary energy. By choosing a properly sized air purifier, you can ensure that allergens are efficiently removed from the air, providing relief from allergy symptoms throughout the entire space. Additional Features Look for air purifiers with additional features that enhance convenience and usability while further improving indoor air quality. Features such as air quality sensors can automatically adjust the purification settings based on the detected level of airborne pollutants, ensuring optimal performance at all times. Programmable timers allow you to schedule operations according to your lifestyle, while quiet operation ensures minimal disruption, especially during nighttime use. By choosing an air purifier with these additional features, you can enjoy enhanced convenience and peace of mind, knowing that your indoor air is being effectively purified to alleviate allergy symptoms and promote respiratory health. Frequently Asked Questions Do air purifiers help with pet allergies? Yes. Air purifiers with HyperHEPA or HEPA filters effectively capture pet dander, a common allergen, reducing symptoms for those with pet allergies. For best results, run the purifier continuously in rooms where pets spend time. Can an air purifier remove pollen from indoor air? Absolutely. HyperHEPA filters are highly effective at trapping pollen particles, which are a major trigger for seasonal allergies. Consider placing the purifier near windows or entryways to intercept pollen before it spreads. How quickly do air purifiers reduce allergy symptoms? Many users notice a difference within hours, but it may take a few days of continuous use to significantly reduce allergen levels. For severe allergies, combine air purification with regular cleaning and allergen avoidance strategies. Are there air purifiers specifically designed for allergy sufferers? Yes. Look for models with HyperHEPA filtration and features like air quality sensors or auto mode for real-time adjustments. Do air purifiers help with dust mite allergies? Yes. HyperHEPA filters capture dust mite debris and feces, which are common triggers. To maximize effectiveness, vacuum and wash bedding regularly, and use an air purifier in the bedroom where dust mites are most concentrated. Conclusion Air purifiers can help reduce airborne allergen levels and support allergy management—but they work best as part of a broader strategy that includes cleaning, ventilation, and exposure reduction. While they may not provide a complete solution on their own, when used in conjunction with other allergy management strategies, air purifiers can be a valuable tool in the battle against allergies.","

Yes. Air purifiers can help reduce airborne allergens—but how much they help depends on how they work and what they are designed to remove.

Many people seek relief from allergies by turning to air purifiers—but their effectiveness depends on how they work and what they are designed to remove.

Understanding Allergies

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to otherwise harmless substances, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or pet dander. These allergens are often airborne, which is why air quality plays a role in symptom management.

The role of air purifiers

Air purifiers are designed to eliminate airborne pollutants and contaminants from the air, including allergens. By capturing and trapping allergenic particles, air purifiers aim to create a cleaner and healthier indoor environment, reducing exposure to allergens and alleviating allergy symptoms.

However, the effectiveness of air purifiers in managing allergies depends on various factors, including the type of allergens present, the filtration technology used, and the size of the space being treated.

When air purifiers help—and when they don’t

Air purifiers can reduce airborne allergens, but they are not a complete solution on their own.

They are most effective for particles that remain suspended in the air, such as pollen or pet dander. However, allergens that settle on surfaces—like dust mites in bedding or carpets—require additional cleaning and environmental controls.

Filtration technologies and allergen removal

HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are widely used for capturing airborne particles. They have a remarkable capability to capture particles as tiny as 0.3 microns with great efficiency. This makes them highly effective in removing various allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from the air.

HEPA filters consist of tightly packed fibers that form a complex network, which traps airborne particles as the air flows through. As a result, they play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality and alleviating allergy symptoms for individuals sensitive to common airborne allergens.

Activated Carbon Filters

While HyperHEPA filters excel at capturing particulate matter, activated carbon filters offer a unique advantage in adsorbing odors, chemicals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Activated carbon is highly porous, providing a large surface area for chemical interactions to occur.

As air passes through the carbon filter, odorous molecules and chemical pollutants become trapped within the carbon pores through a process known as adsorption, effectively removing them from the air stream. This makes activated carbon filters an invaluable addition to air purifiers, particularly in environments where odors and chemical emissions are a concern. By addressing both particulate and gaseous pollutants, activated carbon filters contribute to creating a cleaner, fresher indoor environment, promoting respiratory health and overall well-being.

HyperHEPA Filters

HyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture ultrafine particles down to 0.003 microns, including viruses, bacteria, and combustion particles.

Effectiveness of air purifiers in managing allergies

Numerous studies have evaluated the efficacy of air purifiers in reducing allergy symptoms and improving overall indoor air quality (1)(2). While results may change depending on individual circumstances, research suggests that air purifiers can indeed help alleviate allergy symptoms by reducing the concentration of allergens in the air.

However, it's essential to note that top-rated air purifiers should be used as part of a comprehensive allergy management plan, which may include allergen avoidance strategies, medication, and lifestyle modifications.

Selecting the right air purifier for allergies

Choosing an air purifier for allergies depends on matching the system to the type of allergens present and the size of the space.

Filtration Efficiency

Consider air purifiers that come with High-efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters to remove allergens effectively. HyperHEPA filters are highly efficient in capturing particles as tiny as 0.003 microns, capturing common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from the air.

Opting for an air purifier with a HyperHEPA filter assures you of its ability to provide clean and allergen-free air for you and your loved ones.

Room Size

Consider the size of the room or area where the air purifier will be used to ensure adequate coverage and optimal performance. Select a model that is suitable for the square footage of the space and taking into account factors such as ceiling height and air circulation.

An air purifier that is too small for the room may struggle to filter the air effectively, while one that is too large may consume unnecessary energy. By choosing a properly sized air purifier, you can ensure that allergens are efficiently removed from the air, providing relief from allergy symptoms throughout the entire space.

Additional Features

Look for air purifiers with additional features that enhance convenience and usability while further improving indoor air quality. Features such as air quality sensors can automatically adjust the purification settings based on the detected level of airborne pollutants, ensuring optimal performance at all times.

Programmable timers allow you to schedule operations according to your lifestyle, while quiet operation ensures minimal disruption, especially during nighttime use. By choosing an air purifier with these additional features, you can enjoy enhanced convenience and peace of mind, knowing that your indoor air is being effectively purified to alleviate allergy symptoms and promote respiratory health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do air purifiers help with pet allergies?

Yes. Air purifiers with HyperHEPA or HEPA filters effectively capture pet dander, a common allergen, reducing symptoms for those with pet allergies. For best results, run the purifier continuously in rooms where pets spend time.

Can an air purifier remove pollen from indoor air?

Absolutely. HyperHEPA filters are highly effective at trapping pollen particles, which are a major trigger for seasonal allergies. Consider placing the purifier near windows or entryways to intercept pollen before it spreads.

How quickly do air purifiers reduce allergy symptoms?

Many users notice a difference within hours, but it may take a few days of continuous use to significantly reduce allergen levels. For severe allergies, combine air purification with regular cleaning and allergen avoidance strategies.

Are there air purifiers specifically designed for allergy sufferers?

Yes. Look for models with HyperHEPA filtration and features like air quality sensors or auto mode for real-time adjustments.

Do air purifiers help with dust mite allergies?

Yes. HyperHEPA filters capture dust mite debris and feces, which are common triggers. To maximize effectiveness, vacuum and wash bedding regularly, and use an air purifier in the bedroom where dust mites are most concentrated.

Conclusion

Air purifiers can help reduce airborne allergen levels and support allergy management—but they work best as part of a broader strategy that includes cleaning, ventilation, and exposure reduction.

While they may not provide a complete solution on their own, when used in conjunction with other allergy management strategies, air purifiers can be a valuable tool in the battle against allergies.

","do-air-purifiers-help-with-allergies","gid://shopify/Article/633979961422","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-help-with-allergies","2026-05-26T07:00:00Z",[195,329,330],"Do air purifiers help with allergies?",{"_66":327,"_80":-5,"_82":328,"_84":234,"_86":235},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/273467834446","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/PurifiersAllergies_B_6b41f715-c4d3-4da4-8606-212eda224c77.jpg?v=1779811756","Allergies and Asthma","Featured articles",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"First, second, and thirdhand smoke doesn’t disappear when a cigarette is extinguished. Learn how it lingers in the air, spreads across surfaces, and affects indoor environments over time.","

First, second, and thirdhand smoke doesn’t disappear when a cigarette is extinguished. Learn how it lingers in the air, spreads across surfaces, and affects indoor environments over time.

","Smoke does not disappear when a cigarette is extinguished. Particles and gases linger in the air and settle onto surfaces, continuing to affect indoor environments long after smoking stops. What many people don’t realize is that these particles don’t just linger—they continuously move between air and surfaces, re-circulating indoors over time. What is firsthand, secondhand, and thirdhand smoke? Traditionally, tobacco smoke is consumed directly through lighting a cigarette and inhaling the substance, also known as firsthand exposure. However, involuntary or indirect modes of consumption can happen daily without a person even realizing it. From secondary inhalation to residue build-up, all the different types of tobacco smoke exposures include (1): Firsthand: Direct inhalation of tobacco smoke chemicals by an individual, commonly resulting in elevated personal health risks from heart disease to lung cancer and respiratory complications. Secondhand: Also known as passive smoking, this is the involuntary or indirect inhalation of tobacco smoke by a non-smoking person. If exposed, individuals could encounter over 7,000 various chemicals, including over 70 carcinogens. Long-term secondhand exposure increases physical and mental health risks, especially when an individual is in ill-ventilated areas or indoor spaces. Thirdhand: Tobacco smoke residue that clings and gradually accumulates on top of commonly exposed surfaces such as furniture, walls, and clothing. The tobacco residue often contains toxins and poisonous compounds that are especially harmful to infants, toddlers, and animals who may encounter and ingest these particles. Unlike airborne smoke that dissipates, thirdhand smoke can persist on surfaces for weeks or even months, continuing to release harmful compounds back into the air long after smoking stops. How tobacco smoke affects indoor air quality When cigarettes are combusted, they release smoke containing high concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter that can linger and migrate. PM2.5 are airborne particles the size of 2.5 microns or less and PM10 encapsulate particles the size of 10 microns or less. When these pollutants are inhaled, they can cause systemic harm to the human body. In enclosed spaces, smoking can raise fine particle concentrations to levels up to 100 times higher than typical outdoor air—turning indoor environments into some of the most polluted spaces people encounter. Smoking also directly contributes to the production of harmful gases and chemical pollutants, commonly known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Tobacco smoke specifically has been found to be linked to benzene, a common carcinogen that is known to cause leukemia, bone marrow damage, and anemia through long-term exposure (2). These dynamics are especially pronounced in indoor environments, where airflow is limited and pollutants are more likely to accumulate over time. Indoor smoking leads to long-term exposure Smoking indoors introduces pollutants into a contained environment where they can accumulate, settle, and recirculate over time. Unlike outdoor environments, indoor spaces often lack sufficient airflow to disperse smoke quickly, allowing particles and gases to persist well beyond the act of smoking itself. For this reason, avoiding indoor smoking completely is the most effective way to reduce exposure to both airborne and surface-bound contaminants associated with smoking. Secondhand smoke doesn’t always dissipate outdoors This persistence is not limited to indoor environments. It is often assumed that secondhand smoke quickly disperses outdoors and poses little risk. However, research suggests that this is not always the case—particularly in partially enclosed spaces such as patios, outdoor dining areas, and building entrances. In these environments, secondhand smoke can reach concentrations comparable to indoor spaces where smoking is permitted. Exposure levels can vary depending on the number of smokers, proximity, and airflow conditions, with individuals downwind often experiencing the highest concentrations. Even at a distance, smoke particles can remain detectable and irritating. In some cases, outdoor smoke can drift into adjacent indoor areas or accumulate in semi-enclosed spaces, extending exposure beyond the immediate source (3). Studies have shown that secondhand smoke can be detected and cause irritation at distances of more than 10–20 feet from the source, particularly when individuals are positioned downwind. In outdoor settings with multiple smokers or partial enclosure, exposure levels can approach those found indoors—lasting for as long as smoking activity continues and, in some cases, persisting after the source is gone (4). These findings challenge the assumption that outdoor smoking eliminates risk, highlighting how secondhand smoke can persist and spread across both indoor and outdoor environments. Thirdhand smoke can further extend this exposure. Residual particles that settle onto clothing, skin, or surfaces outdoors can be carried back into indoor environments, where they continue to release harmful compounds over time. This means that even when smoking occurs outside, its effects can still persist indoors. How smoking regulations shape indoor air quality U.S. State and federal smoking laws have been in place since the 1960s to ensure public safety and limit indirect exposure. The Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act, enacted in July 1965, was one of the first anti-smoking laws, requiring transparent health warnings and restricting false advertising of cigarette products nationwide (5). Today, many policies extend into private spaces, as business owners take it upon themselves to limit tobacco exposure to ensure public safety. Tobacco and smoking regulations are becoming increasingly popular worldwide as well. In 2024, Canada was the first country in the world to mandate transparent health warnings on each cigarette individually, with bold black text printed on every stick (6). Also in the same year, the United Kingdom introduced a Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which would ban those under the age of 15 from purchasing tobacco beginning 2027 (7). In a separate ruling, the United Kingdom has also banned the sell and purchase of disposable vapes to address issues in underage smoking (8). For shared buildings and apartment complexes, anti-smoking regulations and designated smoking areas are the key to securing a healthy space for everyone, as cigarette smoke can be transported easily through open windows and air vents or stick to commonly used surfaces (9). Limiting tobacco smoke exposure doesn’t stop at smoking rules and regulations, it also depends on a building’s air filtration system. Because tobacco smoke includes both particles and gases, reducing exposure requires more than a single approach. How filtration can help reduce tobacco smoke exposure Source control—preventing smoke from entering the environment in the first place—is the most effective way to reduce exposure. HyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of airborne particulate as small as 0.003 microns, helping reduce tobacco smoke particles and odors. However, tobacco smoke is not made up of particles alone—it also contains a complex mix of gases and chemical pollutants. Gas-phase filtration, such as activated carbon, is designed to adsorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, and other harmful chemicals present in smoke. By combining particle filtration with gas-phase filtration, air purification systems can address a broader range of pollutants found in tobacco smoke. When paired with proper ventilation and HVAC systems, these approaches can help reduce overall exposure to both particulate and chemical components of tobacco smoke. Reducing exposure to secondhand smoke indoors Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke often involves a combination of building-level policies and individual actions. In homes or shared spaces where smoking occurs, reducing exposure often depends on how air moves, how surfaces are managed, and how consistently these strategies are applied: Improving filtration and ventilation in shared indoor spaces. Limiting indoor smoking and separating smoking areas where possible. Using air filtration to reduce airborne smoke particles and odors Monitoring indoor air quality to better understand exposure levels. Addressing thirdhand smoke on surfaces Thirdhand smoke also plays a role in ongoing exposure. Because smoke residues can accumulate on surfaces and in materials like carpets, upholstery, and clothing, regular cleaning is an important part of reducing exposure. Vacuuming with HEPA filtration, washing fabrics, and wiping surfaces with low- or VOC-free cleaners can help limit the buildup of these lingering contaminants. Conclusion Secondhand and thirdhand smoke can affect indoor air quality long after smoking occurs—often in ways that are not immediately visible. Understanding how these exposures behave is key to reducing risk in indoor environments. Observed each year on May 31, World No Tobacco Day highlights the importance of reducing tobacco-related harms—including those linked to indoor air quality and lingering smoke exposure.","

Smoke does not disappear when a cigarette is extinguished. Particles and gases linger in the air and settle onto surfaces, continuing to affect indoor environments long after smoking stops.

What many people don’t realize is that these particles don’t just linger—they continuously move between air and surfaces, re-circulating indoors over time.

What is firsthand, secondhand, and thirdhand smoke?

Traditionally, tobacco smoke is consumed directly through lighting a cigarette and inhaling the substance, also known as firsthand exposure. However, involuntary or indirect modes of consumption can happen daily without a person even realizing it. From secondary inhalation to residue build-up, all the different types of tobacco smoke exposures include (1):

\nFirsthand: Direct inhalation of tobacco smoke chemicals by an individual, commonly resulting in elevated personal health risks from heart disease to lung cancer and respiratory complications.
\nSecondhand: Also known as passive smoking, this is the involuntary or indirect inhalation of tobacco smoke by a non-smoking person. If exposed, individuals could encounter over 7,000 various chemicals, including over 70 carcinogens. Long-term secondhand exposure increases physical and mental health risks, especially when an individual is in ill-ventilated areas or indoor spaces.
\nThirdhand: Tobacco smoke residue that clings and gradually accumulates on top of commonly exposed surfaces such as furniture, walls, and clothing. The tobacco residue often contains toxins and poisonous compounds that are especially harmful to infants, toddlers, and animals who may encounter and ingest these particles. Unlike airborne smoke that dissipates, thirdhand smoke can persist on surfaces for weeks or even months, continuing to release harmful compounds back into the air long after smoking stops.

How tobacco smoke affects indoor air quality

When cigarettes are combusted, they release smoke containing high concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter that can linger and migrate. PM2.5 are airborne particles the size of 2.5 microns or less and PM10 encapsulate particles the size of 10 microns or less. When these pollutants are inhaled, they can cause systemic harm to the human body.

In enclosed spaces, smoking can raise fine particle concentrations to levels up to 100 times higher than typical outdoor air—turning indoor environments into some of the most polluted spaces people encounter.

Smoking also directly contributes to the production of harmful gases and chemical pollutants, commonly known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Tobacco smoke specifically has been found to be linked to benzene, a common carcinogen that is known to cause leukemia, bone marrow damage, and anemia through long-term exposure (2).

These dynamics are especially pronounced in indoor environments, where airflow is limited and pollutants are more likely to accumulate over time.

Indoor smoking leads to long-term exposure

Smoking indoors introduces pollutants into a contained environment where they can accumulate, settle, and recirculate over time. Unlike outdoor environments, indoor spaces often lack sufficient airflow to disperse smoke quickly, allowing particles and gases to persist well beyond the act of smoking itself.

For this reason, avoiding indoor smoking completely is the most effective way to reduce exposure to both airborne and surface-bound contaminants associated with smoking.

Secondhand smoke doesn’t always dissipate outdoors

This persistence is not limited to indoor environments. It is often assumed that secondhand smoke quickly disperses outdoors and poses little risk. However, research suggests that this is not always the case—particularly in partially enclosed spaces such as patios, outdoor dining areas, and building entrances.

In these environments, secondhand smoke can reach concentrations comparable to indoor spaces where smoking is permitted. Exposure levels can vary depending on the number of smokers, proximity, and airflow conditions, with individuals downwind often experiencing the highest concentrations.

Even at a distance, smoke particles can remain detectable and irritating. In some cases, outdoor smoke can drift into adjacent indoor areas or accumulate in semi-enclosed spaces, extending exposure beyond the immediate source (3).

Studies have shown that secondhand smoke can be detected and cause irritation at distances of more than 10–20 feet from the source, particularly when individuals are positioned downwind. In outdoor settings with multiple smokers or partial enclosure, exposure levels can approach those found indoors—lasting for as long as smoking activity continues and, in some cases, persisting after the source is gone (4).

These findings challenge the assumption that outdoor smoking eliminates risk, highlighting how secondhand smoke can persist and spread across both indoor and outdoor environments.

Thirdhand smoke can further extend this exposure. Residual particles that settle onto clothing, skin, or surfaces outdoors can be carried back into indoor environments, where they continue to release harmful compounds over time. This means that even when smoking occurs outside, its effects can still persist indoors.

How smoking regulations shape indoor air quality

U.S. State and federal smoking laws have been in place since the 1960s to ensure public safety and limit indirect exposure. The Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act, enacted in July 1965, was one of the first anti-smoking laws, requiring transparent health warnings and restricting false advertising of cigarette products nationwide (5). Today, many policies extend into private spaces, as business owners take it upon themselves to limit tobacco exposure to ensure public safety.

Tobacco and smoking regulations are becoming increasingly popular worldwide as well. In 2024, Canada was the first country in the world to mandate transparent health warnings on each cigarette individually, with bold black text printed on every stick (6). Also in the same year, the United Kingdom introduced a Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which would ban those under the age of 15 from purchasing tobacco beginning 2027 (7). In a separate ruling, the United Kingdom has also banned the sell and purchase of disposable vapes to address issues in underage smoking (8).

For shared buildings and apartment complexes, anti-smoking regulations and designated smoking areas are the key to securing a healthy space for everyone, as cigarette smoke can be transported easily through open windows and air vents or stick to commonly used surfaces (9). Limiting tobacco smoke exposure doesn’t stop at smoking rules and regulations, it also depends on a building’s air filtration system.

Because tobacco smoke includes both particles and gases, reducing exposure requires more than a single approach.

How filtration can help reduce tobacco smoke exposure

Source control—preventing smoke from entering the environment in the first place—is the most effective way to reduce exposure.

HyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of airborne particulate as small as 0.003 microns, helping reduce tobacco smoke particles and odors.

However, tobacco smoke is not made up of particles alone—it also contains a complex mix of gases and chemical pollutants. Gas-phase filtration, such as activated carbon, is designed to adsorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, and other harmful chemicals present in smoke. By combining particle filtration with gas-phase filtration, air purification systems can address a broader range of pollutants found in tobacco smoke.

When paired with proper ventilation and HVAC systems, these approaches can help reduce overall exposure to both particulate and chemical components of tobacco smoke.

Reducing exposure to secondhand smoke indoors

Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke often involves a combination of building-level policies and individual actions.

In homes or shared spaces where smoking occurs, reducing exposure often depends on how air moves, how surfaces are managed, and how consistently these strategies are applied:

Improving filtration and ventilation in shared indoor spaces.
Limiting indoor smoking and separating smoking areas where possible.
Using air filtration to reduce airborne smoke particles and odors
Monitoring indoor air quality to better understand exposure levels.

Addressing thirdhand smoke on surfaces

Thirdhand smoke also plays a role in ongoing exposure. Because smoke residues can accumulate on surfaces and in materials like carpets, upholstery, and clothing, regular cleaning is an important part of reducing exposure. Vacuuming with HEPA filtration, washing fabrics, and wiping surfaces with low- or VOC-free cleaners can help limit the buildup of these lingering contaminants.

Conclusion

Secondhand and thirdhand smoke can affect indoor air quality long after smoking occurs—often in ways that are not immediately visible. Understanding how these exposures behave is key to reducing risk in indoor environments.

Observed each year on May 31, World No Tobacco Day highlights the importance of reducing tobacco-related harms—including those linked to indoor air quality and lingering smoke exposure.

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Learn more.","Fall air quality issues can make daily life a challenge. Learn more.","Autumn brings cooler temperatures and seasonal delights, but it also introduces unique air quality challenges. From allergens to wildfire smoke, these fall-specific concerns can affect everyone, especially those with seasonal allergies. How is the air in autumn? Autumn is a transitional season marked by fluctuating weather conditions that can significantly impact air quality. As temperatures drop, humidity levels shift, and winds increase, which can stir up allergens, pollutants, and particulates. These factors make autumn a particularly volatile air quality season—fall air quality today could easily change tomorrow.Fall air quality can also vary locally. In some locales, fall often sees a continuation of summer's wildfire activity, and with that comes wildfire smoke. In other locations, cool, damp weather typical of autumn can promote the growth of mould, particularly on outdoor surfaces like fallen leaves and decaying vegetation, further affecting air quality. Autumn allergens, dust mites, and wildfire smoke are serious air quality concerns that effect all people. Fall seasonal allergies are allergic responses, typically, to one or more of the following: ragweed and flower allergens dust mites wildfires scented candles and holiday decorations pumpkin mould Read on for a deeper look at these top 5 fall air quality concerns and learn how to breathe cleaner air throughout the season. 1. Ragweed, flowers and pollen Ragweed Ragweed is the main allergen that aggravates people with fall seasonal allergies (1). Ragweed is native to North America and is an invasive species in Europe. When the body encounters ragweed pollen, it treats the allergen as a threat. The body’s immune system creates a reaction – the chemical histamine – that enters the bloodstream. This reaction can be helpful in fighting harmful invaders, like parasites. However, when histamines are created in reaction to an allergen like ragweed, they result in a non-helpful allergic reaction. Ragweed pollen allergy symptoms are similar to common pollen reactions, including: sneezing runny nose or congestion headache eye and throat irritation aggravated symptoms for people with asthma Climate change is impacting ragweed habitat, creating worsening conditions for people with ragweed pollen allergies. Climate change is impacting ragweed habitat, creating worsening conditions for people with ragweed pollen allergies. A 2015 study published in Nature Climate Change anticipates that concentrations of airborne ragweed pollen in Europe will be around four times higher than current estimates by 2050 (2). Two-thirds of the anticipated ragweed pollen concentration increase can be attributed to projected climate and land-use changes in northern and eastern Europe, as well as an increase in production in currently established areas of southern Europe. All hope is not lost; despite these expected increases in overall pollen, there are steps that can be taken to alleviate allergy symptoms. On heavy ragweed pollen days, consider staying indoors when possible. There are other ways to prevent symptoms as well, such as: washing bedding with soap and hot water keeping windows and doors closed removing shoes before entering a home vacuuming regularly Flowers Decorative fall flowers can also be a problem for people with allergies. Apart from ragweed, one of the most common problematic autumn flowers is the Chrysanthemum, which can spread pollen. A 2002 study published in Allergy surveyed and tested Dutch greenhouse workers to find out whether nasal inflammations, or rhinitis, were work-related symptoms (3). The study found that about 57 percent of symptoms were work-related, and that about 20 percent of workers were affected by flowers in the Chrysanthemum family. One of the most common problematic autumn flowers for people with allergies is the Chrysanthemum. Tip: Certain brightly colored flowers, like roses, produce less airborne pollen, because they are able to attract birds and bees more directly without needing to release pollen (4). Some other tips for reducing pollen count include: Avoid planting near windows and sitting areas. Garden after it rains or in the late afternoon. Don’t overwater the garden, as this may result in unintentional mould growth. But ragweed and pollen aren’t the only fall culprits. Let’s look at another common element, dust mites, becomes particularly problematic in autumn. 2. Dust mites Autumn is a time of year that’s particularly favorable for dust mites. Dust mite allergens tend to peak between May and October, the dust mite’s breeding season (5). Like ragweed, inhaled dust mite bodies and waste can cause an allergic reaction in the body. Measuring only 250 microns in diameter, dust mites are commonly found in many parts of the home, including (6) (7): bedding carpets curtains upholstered furniture dirty air ducts You can manage dust mite allergens by keeping humidity below 50 percent, cleaning and replacing mattresses and pillows, and installing a whole-house air purifier into an existing HVAC system. There are even more dust mite control strategies for pet owners to consider like keeping pets out of the bedroom and purchasing washable pet toys. 3. Wildfires Human-created climate change is creating global conditions for longer, more intense wildfire and brush fire seasons. Summer wildfires now commonly continue well into autumn and even winter, especially if heatwaves and dry conditions persist in a region. Human-created climate change is creating global conditions for longer, more intense wildfire and brush fire season. Wildfires don’t just pose a threat to the local community. Wildfire smoke contains many pollutants, including: ultrafine particles PM2.5 PM10 carbon monoxide carbon dioxide nitrogen oxides volatile organic compounds (VOCs) When wildfire smoke affects air quality, avoid going outdoors and close doors and windows. If going outdoors is unavoidable, wearing a pollution mask can be an effective means of managing airborne pollutant inhalation. 4. Scented candles and holiday decorations Fun holiday decorations can liven up a living space. But some decorations can also pose indoor pollutant concerns. Polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) plastic, sometimes used to make holiday decorations, has been positioned as an alternative to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) because it is chlorine-free. However, a 2014 study published in the Journal of Toxicological Sciences found that both PVC and PEVA VOCs off-gassing were harmful to freshwater worms, and therefore, PEVA is not a safe alternative to PVC (8). Another potential source of indoor air pollutants in the fall can be scented candles. Some scented candles Some scented candles can be a source of VOCs, including formaldehyde. A 2013 study published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research noted the presence of several aldehyde emissions –including formaldehyde – in scented candles, as opposed to non-scented candles (9) (10). Try to avoid holiday decorations made of either PVC or PEVA plastics. Instead of lighting scented candles, consider making a potpourri out of dried berries, flower, fruit rinds, spices, wood chips and essential oils. Looking for relief from seasonal allergens and asthma triggers? Explore our high-performance air purifiers CLICK HERE 5. Mouldy pumpkins Pumpkins are often used as decorations for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. But as they grow older and mould develops, old pumpkins pose a health hazard (11). Moulds can reproduce wherever there is moisture, including in old pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns. Moulds can reproduce wherever there is moisture, including in old pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns. Allergenic moulds can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Rotting pumpkins can grow several common moulds, including species of Caldosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria – all four of which are considered allergenic moulds. Some species of Aspergillus can be pathogenic, meaning that they can cause an infection in a healthy human. A few species of Aspergillus and Penicillium moulds are toxigenic; they can create chemical metabolic byproducts called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins can result in a toxic response in people. When pumpkins or jack-o-lanterns begin to show signs of rot, be sure to throw them out promptly. Conclusion Though certain allergens and airborne pollutants may be more pressing in autumn, it’s possible to reduce their impact and take back control over one’s quality of life any time of year. When autumn begins, that’s the perfect time to change the air filters in your HVAC and air purifiers. Over time, filtration can become clogged with particles and pollutants. Changing older filters offers many benefits, including: increasing equipment efficiency lowering energy costs extending the life of your air cleaning technology Monitoring your indoor and outdoor air quality will help in identifying issues before they affect quality of life. When air quality is degraded, running an air purifier will help create a safe space in the home for easier breathing and cleaner air. For better air directly affecting personal breathing space, a desk or car air purifier can also be beneficial. Just as autumn brings its unique charm, it also presents unique air quality challenges. By staying proactive, you can ensure that this fall, the air you breathe is as crisp and clean as the season itself.","\n

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and seasonal delights, but it also introduces unique air quality challenges. From allergens to wildfire smoke, these fall-specific concerns can affect everyone, especially those with seasonal allergies.

How is the air in autumn?

Autumn is a transitional season marked by fluctuating weather conditions that can significantly impact air quality. As temperatures drop, humidity levels shift, and winds increase, which can stir up allergens, pollutants, and particulates.

These factors make autumn a particularly volatile air quality season—fall air quality today could easily change tomorrow.

Fall air quality can also vary locally. In some locales, fall often sees a continuation of summer's wildfire activity, and with that comes wildfire smoke. In other locations, cool, damp weather typical of autumn can promote the growth of mould, particularly on outdoor surfaces like fallen leaves and decaying vegetation, further affecting air quality.

Autumn allergens, dust mites, and wildfire smoke are serious air quality concerns that effect all people.

$\"Airborne$

Fall seasonal allergies are allergic responses, typically, to one or more of the following:

ragweed and flower allergens
dust mites
wildfires
scented candles and holiday decorations
pumpkin mould

Read on for a deeper look at these top 5 fall air quality concerns and learn how to breathe cleaner air throughout the season.

1. Ragweed, flowers and pollen

Ragweed

Ragweed is the main allergen that aggravates people with fall seasonal allergies (1). Ragweed is native to North America and is an invasive species in Europe.

When the body encounters ragweed pollen, it treats the allergen as a threat. The body’s immune system creates a reaction – the chemical histamine – that enters the bloodstream. This reaction can be helpful in fighting harmful invaders, like parasites.

However, when histamines are created in reaction to an allergen like ragweed, they result in a non-helpful allergic reaction. Ragweed pollen allergy symptoms are similar to common pollen reactions, including:

sneezing
runny nose or congestion
headache
eye and throat irritation
aggravated symptoms for people with asthma

Climate change is impacting ragweed habitat, creating worsening conditions for people with ragweed pollen allergies.

Climate change is impacting ragweed habitat, creating worsening conditions for people with ragweed pollen allergies. A 2015 study published in Nature Climate Change anticipates that concentrations of airborne ragweed pollen in Europe will be around four times higher than current estimates by 2050 (2).

Two-thirds of the anticipated ragweed pollen concentration increase can be attributed to projected climate and land-use changes in northern and eastern Europe, as well as an increase in production in currently established areas of southern Europe. All hope is not lost; despite these expected increases in overall pollen, there are steps that can be taken to alleviate allergy symptoms.

On heavy ragweed pollen days, consider staying indoors when possible. There are other ways to prevent symptoms as well, such as:

washing bedding with soap and hot water
keeping windows and doors closed
removing shoes before entering a home
vacuuming regularly

Flowers

Decorative fall flowers can also be a problem for people with allergies. Apart from ragweed, one of the most common problematic autumn flowers is the Chrysanthemum, which can spread pollen. A 2002 study published in Allergy surveyed and tested Dutch greenhouse workers to find out whether nasal inflammations, or rhinitis, were work-related symptoms (3). The study found that about 57 percent of symptoms were work-related, and that about 20 percent of workers were affected by flowers in the Chrysanthemum family.

One of the most common problematic autumn flowers for people with allergies is the Chrysanthemum.

Tip: Certain brightly colored flowers, like roses, produce less airborne pollen, because they are able to attract birds and bees more directly without needing to release pollen (4).

Some other tips for reducing pollen count include:

Avoid planting near windows and sitting areas.
Garden after it rains or in the late afternoon. Don’t overwater the garden, as this may result in unintentional mould growth.

But ragweed and pollen aren’t the only fall culprits. Let’s look at another common element, dust mites, becomes particularly problematic in autumn.

2. Dust mites

Autumn is a time of year that’s particularly favorable for dust mites. Dust mite allergens tend to peak between May and October, the dust mite’s breeding season (5). Like ragweed, inhaled dust mite bodies and waste can cause an allergic reaction in the body.

Measuring only 250 microns in diameter, dust mites are commonly found in many parts of the home, including (6) (7):

bedding
carpets
curtains
upholstered furniture
dirty air ducts

You can manage dust mite allergens by keeping humidity below 50 percent, cleaning and replacing mattresses and pillows, and installing a whole-house air purifier into an existing HVAC system. There are even more dust mite control strategies for pet owners to consider like keeping pets out of the bedroom and purchasing washable pet toys.

3. Wildfires

Human-created climate change is creating global conditions for longer, more intense wildfire and brush fire seasons. Summer wildfires now commonly continue well into autumn and even winter, especially if heatwaves and dry conditions persist in a region.

Human-created climate change is creating global conditions for longer, more intense wildfire and brush fire season.

Wildfires don’t just pose a threat to the local community. Wildfire smoke contains many pollutants, including:

When wildfire smoke affects air quality, avoid going outdoors and close doors and windows. If going outdoors is unavoidable, wearing a pollution mask can be an effective means of managing airborne pollutant inhalation.

4. Scented candles and holiday decorations

Fun holiday decorations can liven up a living space. But some decorations can also pose indoor pollutant concerns.

Polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) plastic, sometimes used to make holiday decorations, has been positioned as an alternative to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) because it is chlorine-free. However, a 2014 study published in the Journal of Toxicological Sciences found that both PVC and PEVA VOCs off-gassing were harmful to freshwater worms, and therefore, PEVA is not a safe alternative to PVC (8).

Another potential source of indoor air pollutants in the fall can be scented candles. Some scented candles Some scented candles can be a source of VOCs, including formaldehyde. A 2013 study published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research noted the presence of several aldehyde emissions –including formaldehyde – in scented candles, as opposed to non-scented candles (9) (10).

Try to avoid holiday decorations made of either PVC or PEVA plastics. Instead of lighting scented candles, consider making a potpourri out of dried berries, flower, fruit rinds, spices, wood chips and essential oils.

Looking for relief from seasonal allergens and asthma triggers?
Explore our high-performance air purifiers

CLICK HERE

\n
5. Mouldy pumpkins\n

Pumpkins are often used as decorations for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. But as they grow older and mould develops, old pumpkins pose a health hazard (11).

Moulds can reproduce wherever there is moisture, including in old pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns.

Moulds can reproduce wherever there is moisture, including in old pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns. Allergenic moulds can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Rotting pumpkins can grow several common moulds, including species of Caldosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria – all four of which are considered allergenic moulds.

Some species of Aspergillus can be pathogenic, meaning that they can cause an infection in a healthy human. A few species of Aspergillus and Penicillium moulds are toxigenic; they can create chemical metabolic byproducts called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins can result in a toxic response in people.

When pumpkins or jack-o-lanterns begin to show signs of rot, be sure to throw them out promptly.

Conclusion

Though certain allergens and airborne pollutants may be more pressing in autumn, it’s possible to reduce their impact and take back control over one’s quality of life any time of year.

When autumn begins, that’s the perfect time to change the air filters in your HVAC and air purifiers. Over time, filtration can become clogged with particles and pollutants. Changing older filters offers many benefits, including:

increasing equipment efficiency
lowering energy costs
extending the life of your air cleaning technology

Monitoring your indoor and outdoor air quality will help in identifying issues before they affect quality of life. When air quality is degraded, running an air purifier will help create a safe space in the home for easier breathing and cleaner air. For better air directly affecting personal breathing space, a desk or car air purifier can also be beneficial.

Just as autumn brings its unique charm, it also presents unique air quality challenges. By staying proactive, you can ensure that this fall, the air you breathe is as crisp and clean as the season itself.

","fall-air-quality","gid://shopify/Article/565084192846","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/fall-air-quality","2024-09-30T12:00:00Z",[329,211,162],"5 Fall air quality concerns you need to know",{"_66":396,"_80":397,"_82":398,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269530726478","Pollen falling off tree branch","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/FallAQI_Desktop_A_5ba36798-b778-4533-a1b3-40041458dc3a.jpg?v=1752057063",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Indoor air quality can sometimes be worse than the air outdoors. Find out how to protect your entire home with air purification.","

Indoor air quality can sometimes be worse than the air outdoors. Find out how to protect your entire home with air purification.

","Did you know the air inside your home could be more polluted than the air outside? Protecting your indoor air means protecting your health—and your family's peace of mind (1). Good indoor air quality is critical, and can reduce the spread of viruses, improve cognition and productivity, and keep indoor spaces free from contamination from outdoor pollutants like wildfire smoke (2)(3). In addition to controlling sources of pollution within your home and maintaining a well-ventilated indoor space, air purification technology can play a key role in protecting your home from pollutants—thus, protecting your health and comfort. Read on and find out why you need a whole-house air purifier. The hidden dangers of indoor air pollution Indoor air pollution often goes unnoticed but can have severe health consequences. Prolonged exposure to common indoor pollutants can lead to respiratory problems, aggravate allergies, and worsen chronic conditions like asthma. These pollutants include: Household dust Allergens like pollen and pet dander Ultrafine particles found in wildfire smoke, fireplace smoke, and gas and electric burner emissions, which penetrate deep into the lungs. Medical-grade clean air, total protectionDiscover PerfectPro: Energy-efficient, ultra-quiet whole-house air purification. Shop Now The comprehensive solution: Whole-house air purification The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier integrates seamlessly with your home’s HVAC system, delivering 24/7 clean air without additional noise or increased energy costs. Designed for energy efficiency and quiet operation, PerfectPro systems capture even the tiniest pollutants, ensuring that the air your family breathes is safe and healthy. With this system, you can enjoy continuous, powerful protection without disrupting your daily life. Ground-breaking filtration technology The PerfectPro Series sets a new standard in whole-house air purification with Advanced Micro-Fiber (AMF) technology, capturing pollutants as small as 0.003 microns—smaller than most viruses. This ensures that even the tiniest harmful particles are removed, providing powerful protection for your home. What makes PerfectPro unique is its use of up to 210 square feet of filter media, offering 50 times more filtration power than ordinary systems. Its ultra-thin fibers—10 times thinner than those in standard filters—create a dense barrier that traps pollutants without slowing down airflow. With this efficient design, the air is refreshed up to 125 times per day, keeping your home’s environment consistently clean and safe. The system’s double-V filter configuration maximizes surface area, improving airflow and allowing it to run quietly and efficiently. Integrated seamlessly with your HVAC system, it delivers clean air throughout your entire home without additional noise or energy costs. Certified by Intertek/ETL SEMKO, the PerfectPro Series exceeds MERV 16 ratings—the highest efficiency standard—ensuring superior performance without harmful byproducts like ozone. Real-life benefits, real-life stories Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or an allergy sufferer, the PerfectPro Series ensures the air in your home is free from pollutants like dust, pet dander, and allergens. Lisa Bentley, an elite athlete with cystic fibrosis, noticed significant improvements in air quality after she installed a PerfectPro Series air purifier in her home. “It's unbelievable,” she said. “I feel incredibly lucky to breathe clean air.” “It's unbelievable. I feel incredibly lucky to breathe clean air.” Similarly, Olympic cyclist Dave Zabriskie emphasized the crucial role of clean air in athletic performance. During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Zabriskie also benefited from the HealthPro Plus, which helped him cope with the city's poor air quality. Using the advanced PerfectPro Series, Zabriskie now ensures that his home environment supports his family's health, demonstrating the system's value for athletes and everyday users alike. “You can’t put a price on peace of mind for your family and the air they’re breathing,” Zabriskie noted. The takeaway With the PerfectPro Series, your entire home becomes a place of comfort and safety, where every breath brings peace of mind. Give your family the gift of clean air—because nothing matters more than the air you breathe. To experience the difference for yourself, visit the Clean Air Experience Center, complete the homeowner pre-evaluation, or book an appointment to explore how a whole-house air purifier can enhance your living space. Need help finding the right solution? Take our air purifier quiz to find the perfect solution for your home.","

Did you know the air inside your home could be more polluted than the air outside? Protecting your indoor air means protecting your health—and your family's peace of mind (1).

Good indoor air quality is critical, and can reduce the spread of viruses, improve cognition and productivity, and keep indoor spaces free from contamination from outdoor pollutants like wildfire smoke (2)(3).

In addition to controlling sources of pollution within your home and maintaining a well-ventilated indoor space, air purification technology can play a key role in protecting your home from pollutants—thus, protecting your health and comfort. Read on and find out why you need a whole-house air purifier.

The hidden dangers of indoor air pollution

Indoor air pollution often goes unnoticed but can have severe health consequences.

Prolonged exposure to common indoor pollutants can lead to respiratory problems, aggravate allergies, and worsen chronic conditions like asthma. These pollutants include:

Household dust
Allergens like pollen and pet dander
Ultrafine particles found in wildfire smoke, fireplace smoke, and gas and electric burner emissions, which penetrate deep into the lungs.

Medical-grade clean air, total protection
Discover PerfectPro: Energy-efficient, ultra-quiet whole-house air purification.

Shop Now

The comprehensive solution: Whole-house air purification

The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier integrates seamlessly with your home’s HVAC system, delivering 24/7 clean air without additional noise or increased energy costs.

Designed for energy efficiency and quiet operation, PerfectPro systems capture even the tiniest pollutants, ensuring that the air your family breathes is safe and healthy. With this system, you can enjoy continuous, powerful protection without disrupting your daily life.

Ground-breaking filtration technology

The PerfectPro Series sets a new standard in whole-house air purification with Advanced Micro-Fiber (AMF) technology, capturing pollutants as small as 0.003 microns—smaller than most viruses. This ensures that even the tiniest harmful particles are removed, providing powerful protection for your home.

What makes PerfectPro unique is its use of up to 210 square feet of filter media, offering 50 times more filtration power than ordinary systems. Its ultra-thin fibers—10 times thinner than those in standard filters—create a dense barrier that traps pollutants without slowing down airflow. With this efficient design, the air is refreshed up to 125 times per day, keeping your home’s environment consistently clean and safe.

The system’s double-V filter configuration maximizes surface area, improving airflow and allowing it to run quietly and efficiently. Integrated seamlessly with your HVAC system, it delivers clean air throughout your entire home without additional noise or energy costs.

Certified by Intertek/ETL SEMKO, the PerfectPro Series exceeds MERV 16 ratings—the highest efficiency standard—ensuring superior performance without harmful byproducts like ozone.

Real-life benefits, real-life stories

Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or an allergy sufferer, the PerfectPro Series ensures the air in your home is free from pollutants like dust, pet dander, and allergens.

Lisa Bentley, an elite athlete with cystic fibrosis, noticed significant improvements in air quality after she installed a PerfectPro Series air purifier in her home. “It's unbelievable,” she said. “I feel incredibly lucky to breathe clean air.”

“It's unbelievable. I feel incredibly lucky to breathe clean air.”

Similarly, Olympic cyclist Dave Zabriskie emphasized the crucial role of clean air in athletic performance. During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Zabriskie also benefited from the HealthPro Plus, which helped him cope with the city's poor air quality. Using the advanced PerfectPro Series, Zabriskie now ensures that his home environment supports his family's health, demonstrating the system's value for athletes and everyday users alike.

“You can’t put a price on peace of mind for your family and the air they’re breathing,” Zabriskie noted.

The takeaway

With the PerfectPro Series, your entire home becomes a place of comfort and safety, where every breath brings peace of mind. Give your family the gift of clean air—because nothing matters more than the air you breathe.

To experience the difference for yourself, visit the Clean Air Experience Center, complete the homeowner pre-evaluation, or book an appointment to explore how a whole-house air purifier can enhance your living space.

Need help finding the right solution? Take our air purifier quiz to find the perfect solution for your home.

","why-you-need-a-whole-house-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/634905231438","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/why-you-need-a-whole-house-air-purifier","2024-10-01T12:00:00Z",[195,162],"Why You Need a Whole-House Air Purifier",{"_66":412,"_80":413,"_82":414,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/271772254286","Man working with HVAC","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/WhyYouNeed_WholeHouse_Desktop.jpg?v=1771620425",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Worried that whole-house air purifiers aren’t effective? Get the facts – read our guide to in-home air purification systems today.","When the air is dusty, smoky, or just plain bad, you may have asked yourself – do in-home air purifiers really work? Do these devices live up to their promises or are they just another home gadget with limited impact? Let’s break down the facts about air purifiers and explore how a high-quality, whole-house air purification system can transform your indoor air quality and protect your health. Debunking myths about air purifiers One common myth is that air purifiers are ineffective in removing pollutants and provide a false sense of security. However, scientific evidence demonstrates that high-quality in-home air purifiers significantly improve indoor air quality. Studies have shown that effective air purifiers can capture a wide range of contaminants, from dust and pollen to more harmful ultrafine particles (1)(2). The effectiveness of these devices is supported by rigorous testing and user experiences, proving that they are more than just hype. Studies have shown that effective air purifiers can capture a wide range of contaminants. Real people, Real Results In-home air purification offers tangible benefits for anyone seeking better air quality. For example, athletes like Lisa Bentley, a triathlete with cystic fibrosis, and Olympic cyclist Dave Zabriskie have both turned to whole-home air purification to improve their performance, health outcomes, and family’s well-being. “You can’t put a price on peace of mind for your family and the air they’re breathing,” Zabriskie attested. Their stories highlight how clean air plays a critical role in both performance and well-being—whether you’re an athlete or just want peace of mind at home. Why Filtration Quality Matters Not all air purifiers are equal. Many devices only capture larger particles, but to truly protect your home, it’s essential to filter ultrafine particles down to 0.003 microns—smaller than most viruses. This ensures even the most harmful pollutants are removed, creating a healthier indoor environment. Three-step filtration process The PerfectPro Series integrates seamlessly with your HVAC system, delivering clean air to every room 24/7—without adding noise or increasing energy bills. Designed for energy efficiency and silent operation, it protects your family without disrupting daily life. Here’s how the three-step filtration system works: Air Intake: Polluted air is drawn in through multiple intake points. High-Performance Filtration: Air passes through multiple HEPA and carbon filters to capture pollutants, including allergens and ultrafine particles. Clean Air Delivery: Clean air is circulated throughout every room, ensuring your entire home benefits from cleaner air. This multi-step process means cleaner air with every breath. Proven performance and certifications The PerfectPro Series goes beyond industry standards—it’s rated higher than MERV 16, the highest efficiency rating, meaning it captures even the smallest pollutants, ensuring superior indoor air quality. Additionally, it has undergone rigorous testing and earned certifications that highlight its effectiveness in delivering clean air. Long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness Choosing the right air purifier means long-term health benefits and cost savings. Quiet, energy-efficient operation ensures lower energy bills, while cleaner air helps reduce allergy symptoms, respiratory conditions, and related healthcare costs. Quiet, energy-efficient operation ensures lower energy bills, while cleaner air helps reduce allergy symptoms and respiratory conditions. With motor-free, silent operation, the PerfectPro allows your family to enjoy uninterrupted sleep and peaceful living, all while breathing cleaner air. Conclusion The PerfectPro Series proves that whole-house systems are more than just gadgets—they’re essential investments in health and well-being. With unmatched filtration technology, proven performance, and long-term cost savings, the PerfectPro Series stands out as a top choice for cleaner indoor air.","

When the air is dusty, smoky, or just plain bad, you may have asked yourself – do in-home air purifiers really work? Do these devices live up to their promises or are they just another home gadget with limited impact?

Let’s break down the facts about air purifiers and explore how a high-quality, whole-house air purification system can transform your indoor air quality and protect your health.

Debunking myths about air purifiers

One common myth is that air purifiers are ineffective in removing pollutants and provide a false sense of security. However, scientific evidence demonstrates that high-quality in-home air purifiers significantly improve indoor air quality.

Studies have shown that effective air purifiers can capture a wide range of contaminants, from dust and pollen to more harmful ultrafine particles (1)(2). The effectiveness of these devices is supported by rigorous testing and user experiences, proving that they are more than just hype.

Studies have shown that effective air purifiers can capture a wide range of contaminants.

Real people, Real Results

In-home air purification offers tangible benefits for anyone seeking better air quality. For example, athletes like Lisa Bentley, a triathlete with cystic fibrosis, and Olympic cyclist Dave Zabriskie have both turned to whole-home air purification to improve their performance, health outcomes, and family’s well-being.

“You can’t put a price on peace of mind for your family and the air they’re breathing,” Zabriskie attested.

Their stories highlight how clean air plays a critical role in both performance and well-being—whether you’re an athlete or just want peace of mind at home.

Why Filtration Quality Matters

Not all air purifiers are equal. Many devices only capture larger particles, but to truly protect your home, it’s essential to filter ultrafine particles down to 0.003 microns—smaller than most viruses. This ensures even the most harmful pollutants are removed, creating a healthier indoor environment.

Three-step filtration process

The PerfectPro Series integrates seamlessly with your HVAC system, delivering clean air to every room 24/7—without adding noise or increasing energy bills. Designed for energy efficiency and silent operation, it protects your family without disrupting daily life.

Here’s how the three-step filtration system works:

\nAir Intake: Polluted air is drawn in through multiple intake points.
\nHigh-Performance Filtration: Air passes through multiple HEPA and carbon filters to capture pollutants, including allergens and ultrafine particles.
\nClean Air Delivery: Clean air is circulated throughout every room, ensuring your entire home benefits from cleaner air.

This multi-step process means cleaner air with every breath.

Proven performance and certifications

The PerfectPro Series goes beyond industry standards—it’s rated higher than MERV 16, the highest efficiency rating, meaning it captures even the smallest pollutants, ensuring superior indoor air quality. Additionally, it has undergone rigorous testing and earned certifications that highlight its effectiveness in delivering clean air.

Long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness

Choosing the right air purifier means long-term health benefits and cost savings. Quiet, energy-efficient operation ensures lower energy bills, while cleaner air helps reduce allergy symptoms, respiratory conditions, and related healthcare costs.

Quiet, energy-efficient operation ensures lower energy bills, while cleaner air helps reduce allergy symptoms and respiratory conditions.

With motor-free, silent operation, the PerfectPro allows your family to enjoy uninterrupted sleep and peaceful living, all while breathing cleaner air.

Conclusion

The PerfectPro Series proves that whole-house systems are more than just gadgets—they’re essential investments in health and well-being. With unmatched filtration technology, proven performance, and long-term cost savings, the PerfectPro Series stands out as a top choice for cleaner indoor air.

","do-in-home-air-purifiers-really-work","gid://shopify/Article/634903691342","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/do-in-home-air-purifiers-really-work","2024-10-02T17:00:00Z",[195,162],"Do in-home air purifiers really work?",{"_66":427,"_80":428,"_82":429,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269916799054","House ventilation diagram.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/PerfectPro-AQL_Desk_e183a463-a966-4655-96dd-6286180a0258.jpg?v=1755502017",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Should you invest in air purification for your entire home? Find out what you need to know before buy.","Did you know that we spend 90% of our time indoors (1)? This means we spend most of our time exposed to indoor and outdoor pollutants that enter our living spaces. Is investing in a whole-house air purifier truly worthwhile? With growing awareness of the importance of indoor air quality, many homeowners are considering whole-house systems to create healthier living environments. But not all purifiers are created equal. Let’s explore whether a whole-house air purifier is a smart investment for your health and home. The true cost of poor indoor air quality Poor indoor air quality can have significant health and financial repercussions. Contaminants like dust, mold, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. Chronic exposure to poor air quality can also worsen preexisting health conditions, increasing medical expenses and reducing productivity. Over time, the health impact of poor air quality can become a financial burden. Poor indoor air quality can have significant health and financial repercussions. Smart investment for health and home Investing in a whole-house air purifier is a smart choice for both health and comfort. Cleaner air reduces health risks, lowers medical expenses, and improves well-being. With seamless smart-home integration, these systems offer convenient, modern control over your indoor environment. Whole-house air purifier: What to look for The perfect whole-house air purifier must offer a range of essential features to be effective, efficient, and silent. Key benefits include: Ultrafine particle filtration: Whole-house air purification with multiple, high-performance filters must be able to capture particles as small as 0.003 microns, including allergens, viruses, ultrafine particles, and pollutants that other systems might miss. Energy efficiency: When designed to be energy-efficient, the best whole-house air purifiers provide optimal performance without significantly increasing your energy bills. Silent operation: Ultra-quiet performance can be ensured by having no fan or motor, making sure that it won’t disrupt your daily activities or sleep. These features collectively enhance indoor air quality, offering substantial health and comfort benefits. Comparison with other air cleaning solutions While portable air purifiers clean individual rooms, whole-house systems offer comprehensive coverage for every room in the home. Different rooms face unique air quality challenges—like gas and electric burner emissions in the kitchen or smoke from a fireplace— so a whole-home solution ensures every space benefits from clean air. Whole-house purifiers integrate with your HVAC system, working efficiently behind the scenes to deliver continuous clean air without noise or additional maintenance. Athletes attest to “game changer” air quality Lisa Bentley, a triathlete with cystic fibrosis, described how an effective room air purifier transformed her home environment. “We noticed the difference right away. It was unbelievable.” “We noticed the difference right away. It was unbelievable.” Describing the system as “game changer,” she and her family upgraded to a whole-house system. Olympic cyclist Dave Zabriskie followed a similar path to breathing medical-grade indoor air. After enjoying the benefits of room air purification, he then installed a whole-home air purifier. Explaining his decision, Dave said, “being outside, there’s not much I can do to control the environment, but you can have some control over the indoor air quality.” Conclusion The PerfectPro Series proves that whole-house air purifiers for essential investments in health and well-being. With advanced filtration technology, seamless smart-home integration, and long-term cost savings, the PerfectPro Series stands out as a top choice for cleaner air. To see these benefits first-hand, visit the Clean Air Experience Center, complete the homeowner pre-evaluation, or book an appointment to explore how a whole-house air purifier can enhance your living space.","

Did you know that we spend 90% of our time indoors (1)? This means we spend most of our time exposed to indoor and outdoor pollutants that enter our living spaces.

Is investing in a whole-house air purifier truly worthwhile? With growing awareness of the importance of indoor air quality, many homeowners are considering whole-house systems to create healthier living environments. But not all purifiers are created equal.

Let’s explore whether a whole-house air purifier is a smart investment for your health and home.

The true cost of poor indoor air quality

Poor indoor air quality can have significant health and financial repercussions.

Contaminants like dust, mold, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. Chronic exposure to poor air quality can also worsen preexisting health conditions, increasing medical expenses and reducing productivity.

Over time, the health impact of poor air quality can become a financial burden.

Poor indoor air quality can have significant health and financial repercussions.

Smart investment for health and home

Investing in a whole-house air purifier is a smart choice for both health and comfort. Cleaner air reduces health risks, lowers medical expenses, and improves well-being. With seamless smart-home integration, these systems offer convenient, modern control over your indoor environment.

Whole-house air purifier: What to look for

The perfect whole-house air purifier must offer a range of essential features to be effective, efficient, and silent. Key benefits include:

\nUltrafine particle filtration: Whole-house air purification with multiple, high-performance filters must be able to capture particles as small as 0.003 microns, including allergens, viruses, ultrafine particles, and pollutants that other systems might miss.
\nEnergy efficiency: When designed to be energy-efficient, the best whole-house air purifiers provide optimal performance without significantly increasing your energy bills.
\nSilent operation: Ultra-quiet performance can be ensured by having no fan or motor, making sure that it won’t disrupt your daily activities or sleep.

These features collectively enhance indoor air quality, offering substantial health and comfort benefits.

Comparison with other air cleaning solutions

While portable air purifiers clean individual rooms, whole-house systems offer comprehensive coverage for every room in the home. Different rooms face unique air quality challenges—like gas and electric burner emissions in the kitchen or smoke from a fireplace— so a whole-home solution ensures every space benefits from clean air.

Whole-house purifiers integrate with your HVAC system, working efficiently behind the scenes to deliver continuous clean air without noise or additional maintenance.

Athletes attest to “game changer” air quality

Lisa Bentley, a triathlete with cystic fibrosis, described how an effective room air purifier transformed her home environment. “We noticed the difference right away. It was unbelievable.”

“We noticed the difference right away. It was unbelievable.”

Describing the system as “game changer,” she and her family upgraded to a whole-house system.

Olympic cyclist Dave Zabriskie followed a similar path to breathing medical-grade indoor air. After enjoying the benefits of room air purification, he then installed a whole-home air purifier.

Explaining his decision, Dave said, “being outside, there’s not much I can do to control the environment, but you can have some control over the indoor air quality.”

Conclusion

The PerfectPro Series proves that whole-house air purifiers for essential investments in health and well-being. With advanced filtration technology, seamless smart-home integration, and long-term cost savings, the PerfectPro Series stands out as a top choice for cleaner air.

To see these benefits first-hand, visit the Clean Air Experience Center, complete the homeowner pre-evaluation, or book an appointment to explore how a whole-house air purifier can enhance your living space.

","is-a-whole-house-air-purifier-worth-it","gid://shopify/Article/634905133134","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/is-a-whole-house-air-purifier-worth-it","2024-10-03T12:00:00Z",[195,162],"Is a whole-house air purifier worth it?",{"_66":442,"_80":443,"_82":444,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/267893637198","PerfectPro system","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/PerfectSeries_Desktop.jpg?v=1734977680",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Clean air delivery rate (CADR) ratings mean nothing. Learn more about a true measurement of air purifier performance: cumulate clean mass, or CCM.","With any air purifier, performance is crucial. But there are myriads of air purifiers on the market, and long-term performance can vary drastically. Some last two to three weeks before losing efficiency. Some are good for a couple of months before losing half their efficiency. Others last for five months or more – and in IQAir’s case, as long as 2 to 4 years without ever losing efficiency. Why the huge difference? The devil’s in the details – or in this case, the efficiency testing methods and results. Before you go to the store and fall into the sea of acronyms (like the infamous CADR rating) and shaky efficiency claims, read on for our bite-size crash course on the motherlode of all air purification ratings: cumulate clean mass, or CCM. Forget CADR: it’s all about CCM In the GB/T18801-2015 national standards, implemented in China during March 2016, four key indicators are noted for measuring an air purifier’s long-term performance (1): Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) Cumulate clean mass (CCM) Cleaning energy efficiency Noise You may hear a litany of CADR rating claims when you shop around for air purifiers, but CADR rating is basically just a speed test: all it measures is how quickly a purifier cleans the air, and not even really how clean the air is that comes out. Even an air purifier CADR above 350 is essentially meaningless without some context. When it comes to long-term performance, CCM is the most relevant metric. You don’t need to get into the weeds to know why, but just in case you’re curious, CCM is tested for particle pollution as follows (per the GB/T18801-2015 standard): Measure the CADR of the purifier in normal settings to get an initial value. Light up a cigarette in a three square-meter chamber and blow the smoke around briefly with a fan. Turn off the fan and measure particle pollution in the chamber. Put the air purifier in the chamber and turn it on to the setting you want to test. Turn on the fan that’s in the room, too, and seal off the chamber. Light 50(!) cigarettes one after another (not at the same time!) in the chamber and wait for the purifier to get the particulate concentration below 0.035 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). Turn off the purifier and let it sit in the chamber for another 30 minutes before taking it out. Repeat these steps for 100 cigarettes, 150, 200, and beyond until the CADR is less than half of that initial value you got in step 1. Afterwards, follow the process gain for other gases, such as formaldehyde, following similar steps for filtration media for gases, such as activated carbon filters. The final CCM measurement you get indicates the continuing air-cleaning power of a purifier. It’s assessed by measuring the sheer volume of particulate matter and formaldehyde that can be efficiently filtered by the purifier before it starts to lose its overall efficiency over time. The results are categorized as follows: Particulate Matter Formaldehyde P1 3000 – 5000 mg F1 300 – 600 mg P2 5000 – 8000 mg F2 600 – 1000 mg P3 8000 – 12000 mg F3 1000 – 1500 mg P4 > 12,000 mg F4 > 1500 mg What’s the takeaway here? The higher the P and F value, the greater your purifier’s long-term performance. And it doesn’t get any better than P4 and F4. Just how important is CCM? In a nutshell, the higher the CCM is, the better the overall long-term performance and stability of the product. And CCM is a good indicator of how much your purifier will protect you from dangerous indoor air pollutants. The Household Indoor Eco-Environment Health Report released by Tsinghua University shows that the most hazardous indoor pollutants are: Formaldehyde PM2.5 Benzene Let’s focus on formaldehyde, an IARC Group 1 carcinogen. It’s widely emitted from adhesives, plates, wall coverings, polyester carpets, paints, and coating (2). If it’s not properly disposed of, formaldehyde takes three to 15 years to release fully. As a result, the volume of formaldehyde may still be higher than normal even if you ventilate a newly renovated place with the windows open for six months or even as long as two years. During those years while pollutants like formaldehyde stay volatile, you may really need just to close your windows and turn on your air purifier, especially when outdoor air quality is worse than that indoors. In cities like Beijing, where indoor gases released during renovation season combines with pollen and the particulate matter and gases associated with heavy smog, the role of an air purifier becomes even more crucial – and the CCM rating will tell you much of the story about how much of that pollution will be effectively absorbed in the long term. How big a difference can an air purifier make? The bottom line is this: CCM is shorthand for excellent long-term performance. And we at IQAir are all over it. But don’t take our word for it. In the List of Outstanding Air Purifiers Regarding Particulate CCM issued by China Household Electrical Appliances Association, IQAir’s HealthPro Series room air purifiers ranked among the best as well as being named the only product whose particulate CCM rating is tested above 16,896 cigarettes, 2.2 pounds of tobacco smoke, at a factor of 84 times above P4 results. What does this mean? It means that the HealthPro Plus has been independently tested according to the GB/T 18801 air purifier standard to evaluate its long-term ability to remove fine pollution particles, the kind of particle pollutants found in cigarettes. The highest rating under standard is achieved if an air purifier can remove at least 12,000 mg of tobacco smoke – equal to the smoke of 200 cigarettes – and maintains at least 50% of its original performance. And – the HealthPro Plus far exceeded this requirement. Its long-term performance stability was so high, that it took a staggering 16,896 cigarettes, or the equivalent of 2.2 lbs. of tobacco smoke, before the HealthPro Plus dropped to the test standard’s performance threshold. In other words, the HealthPro Plus exceeded the highest rating under the standard by a factor of 84. And try the GCX Series air purifiers for even more extreme protection. These robust purifiers filter not only particulate matter but also harmful indoor chemicals, odors, and gases like formaldehyde in indoor spaces of any size with up to 32 pounds of sorptive material. It’s one of the most powerful purifiers in relation to CCM: it reaches over 2.27 million mg (22,000 percent higher than the standard P4 level!), and 27,000 mg for formaldehyde alone (1700 percent more than the F4 level dictated in the New National Standards). These incredible CCM numbers explain why HealthPro and GCX Series purifiers are consistently rated as the best purifiers for long-term purification performance: they filter out almost particulate matter and formaldehyde from your indoor air even after years of use. The efficiency of many purifiers drops by as much as 75 percent in the first few months of use, but using CCM and EN 1822 as a benchmark, IQAir systems are tested and certified to retain their efficiency for years after you first buy them. Now you know what to look for in an air purifier and why many air purifiers don’t last long against even normal levels of indoor pollution. Keep an eye on CCM when you buy an air purifier. This way, you know just how powerful your purifier will be at removing particles and gases and how much your air purifier will truly help clean your home in the long run.","

With any air purifier, performance is crucial.

But there are myriads of air purifiers on the market, and long-term performance can vary drastically. Some last two to three weeks before losing efficiency. Some are good for a couple of months before losing half their efficiency. Others last for five months or more – and in IQAir’s case, as long as 2 to 4 years without ever losing efficiency.

Why the huge difference? The devil’s in the details – or in this case, the efficiency testing methods and results.

Before you go to the store and fall into the sea of acronyms (like the infamous CADR rating) and shaky efficiency claims, read on for our bite-size crash course on the motherlode of all air purification ratings: cumulate clean mass, or CCM.

Forget CADR: it’s all about CCM

In the GB/T18801-2015 national standards, implemented in China during March 2016, four key indicators are noted for measuring an air purifier’s long-term performance (1):

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)
Cumulate clean mass (CCM)
Cleaning energy efficiency
Noise

You may hear a litany of CADR rating claims when you shop around for air purifiers, but CADR rating is basically just a speed test: all it measures is how quickly a purifier cleans the air, and not even really how clean the air is that comes out. Even an air purifier CADR above 350 is essentially meaningless without some context.

When it comes to long-term performance, CCM is the most relevant metric.

You don’t need to get into the weeds to know why, but just in case you’re curious, CCM is tested for particle pollution as follows (per the GB/T18801-2015 standard):

\nMeasure the CADR of the purifier in normal settings to get an initial value.
\nLight up a cigarette in a three square-meter chamber and blow the smoke around briefly with a fan.
\nTurn off the fan and measure particle pollution in the chamber.
\nPut the air purifier in the chamber and turn it on to the setting you want to test.
\nTurn on the fan that’s in the room, too, and seal off the chamber.
\nLight 50(!) cigarettes one after another (not at the same time!) in the chamber and wait for the purifier to get the particulate concentration below 0.035 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3).
\nTurn off the purifier and let it sit in the chamber for another 30 minutes before taking it out.
\nRepeat these steps for 100 cigarettes, 150, 200, and beyond until the CADR is less than half of that initial value you got in step 1.

Afterwards, follow the process gain for other gases, such as formaldehyde, following similar steps for filtration media for gases, such as activated carbon filters.

The final CCM measurement you get indicates the continuing air-cleaning power of a purifier. It’s assessed by measuring the sheer volume of particulate matter and formaldehyde that can be efficiently filtered by the purifier before it starts to lose its overall efficiency over time.

The results are categorized as follows:

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

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

What’s the takeaway here? The higher the P and F value, the greater your purifier’s long-term performance. And it doesn’t get any better than P4 and F4.

Just how important is CCM?

In a nutshell, the higher the CCM is, the better the overall long-term performance and stability of the product.

And CCM is a good indicator of how much your purifier will protect you from dangerous indoor air pollutants. The Household Indoor Eco-Environment Health Report released by Tsinghua University shows that the most hazardous indoor pollutants are:

Formaldehyde
PM2.5
Benzene

Let’s focus on formaldehyde, an IARC Group 1 carcinogen. It’s widely emitted from adhesives, plates, wall coverings, polyester carpets, paints, and coating (2). If it’s not properly disposed of, formaldehyde takes three to 15 years to release fully. As a result, the volume of formaldehyde may still be higher than normal even if you ventilate a newly renovated place with the windows open for six months or even as long as two years.

During those years while pollutants like formaldehyde stay volatile, you may really need just to close your windows and turn on your air purifier, especially when outdoor air quality is worse than that indoors. In cities like Beijing, where indoor gases released during renovation season combines with pollen and the particulate matter and gases associated with heavy smog, the role of an air purifier becomes even more crucial – and the CCM rating will tell you much of the story about how much of that pollution will be effectively absorbed in the long term.

How big a difference can an air purifier make?

The bottom line is this: CCM is shorthand for excellent long-term performance. And we at IQAir are all over it.

But don’t take our word for it.

In the List of Outstanding Air Purifiers Regarding Particulate CCM issued by China Household Electrical Appliances Association, IQAir’s HealthPro Series room air purifiers ranked among the best as well as being named the only product whose particulate CCM rating is tested above 16,896 cigarettes, 2.2 pounds of tobacco smoke, at a factor of 84 times above P4 results.

What does this mean?

It means that the HealthPro Plus has been independently tested according to the GB/T 18801 air purifier standard to evaluate its long-term ability to remove fine pollution particles, the kind of particle pollutants found in cigarettes.

The highest rating under standard is achieved if an air purifier can remove at least 12,000 mg of tobacco smoke – equal to the smoke of 200 cigarettes – and maintains at least 50% of its original performance.

And – the HealthPro Plus far exceeded this requirement. Its long-term performance stability was so high, that it took a staggering 16,896 cigarettes, or the equivalent of 2.2 lbs. of tobacco smoke, before the HealthPro Plus dropped to the test standard’s performance threshold. In other words, the HealthPro Plus exceeded the highest rating under the standard by a factor of 84.

And try the GCX Series air purifiers for even more extreme protection. These robust purifiers filter not only particulate matter but also harmful indoor chemicals, odors, and gases like formaldehyde in indoor spaces of any size with up to 32 pounds of sorptive material. It’s one of the most powerful purifiers in relation to CCM: it reaches over 2.27 million mg (22,000 percent higher than the standard P4 level!), and 27,000 mg for formaldehyde alone (1700 percent more than the F4 level dictated in the New National Standards).

These incredible CCM numbers explain why HealthPro and GCX Series purifiers are consistently rated as the best purifiers for long-term purification performance: they filter out almost particulate matter and formaldehyde from your indoor air even after years of use. The efficiency of many purifiers drops by as much as 75 percent in the first few months of use, but using CCM and EN 1822 as a benchmark, IQAir systems are tested and certified to retain their efficiency for years after you first buy them.

Now you know what to look for in an air purifier and why many air purifiers don’t last long against even normal levels of indoor pollution.

Keep an eye on CCM when you buy an air purifier. This way, you know just how powerful your purifier will be at removing particles and gases and how much your air purifier will truly help clean your home in the long run.

","measure-air-purifier-long-term-performance-ccm","gid://shopify/Article/564861698126","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/measure-air-purifier-long-term-performance-ccm","2024-10-13T22:00:00Z",[195,179,162],"Air purifier long-term performance: CCM vs CADR",{"_66":457,"_80":458,"_82":459,"_84":460,"_86":461},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/270420017230","President Frank Hammes in Smoke Chamber with nothing other than an IQAir HealthPro Series air purifier","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/video_still_Com_018e0fb5-51b2-468f-8b53-6c21b497ce0a.webp?v=1760024211",1600,833,{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"How do stunning fireworks displays affect your air quality? Learn more.","Fireworks are beautiful – right? Your lungs would like to disagree. Let’s get into the science behind the sparklers and find out: what airborne pollutants fireworks produce how fireworks shows impact air quality and your health what you can do to protect yourself from fireworks air pollution How do fireworks cause air pollution?See how fireworks are made and how they create huge amounts of air pollution when they explode. DOWNLOAD NOW What are fireworks made of? Every firework relies on a series of chemical reactions to achieve a certain size, color, or loudness. These chemicals are packed into a tube called an aerial shell that’s packed with chemicals and explosives. Here’s the ingredient list for a typical firework. Black powder Sometimes called gunpowder, black powder helps the firework get into the air and blow up. Black powder is a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate (also called salt pepper). It’s used in two important parts of the firework process: Gunpowder blows up below the firework and propels it into the air. A fuse that’s designed to delay until the firework’s in the air ignites the gunpowder, resulting in the explosion that creates the firework display. Colorants These are chemicals that help give fireworks their wide range of colors. Fireworks achieves certain colors and shades by applying heat to chemical compounds: Red: strontium, lithium Orange: calcium, calcium chloride Yellow: sodium, sodium chloride (salt) Green: barium, chlorine Blue: copper, chlorine Purple: mixture of copper (blue) and strontium (red) “Stars” These are the small concentrations of explosives in a firework that blow up and fly in many directions when ignited. Notice how a firework looks like a bunch of long, bright light rockets? Each light results from a single “star” in the firework shell. Stars can also be arranged in shapes inside the aerial shell so that they look like happy faces, hearts, or other shapes when they explode. Do fireworks cause bad air quality? Remember that fireworks are basically explosions of chemicals in solid form. Millions of combustion particles and gases are released into the air during these splashes of color on the sky. Many are also blown around for miles in atmospheric wind currents. The most notable fireworks pollutant, particulate matter (PM), includes three distinct types of particles: PM10: coarse particles ranging from 2.5–10 microns in diameter, such as dust, mold, and pollen PM2.5: fine particles ranging from 0.3–2.5 microns in diameter, such as those created from combustion in vehicle engines or factory emissions Ultrafine particles (UFPs): tiny particles smaller than 0.3 microns in diameter – UFPs make up over 90% of all airborne particle pollution and are by far the most dangerous PM pollutant Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): airborne vapor or gaseous compounds responsible for odors that are produced by chemical reactions in combustion, manufacturing, or industrial processes. Fireworks generate huge concentrations of pollutants from colorants and explosives as well as from the metals and fuses that make up the firework itself. PM pollutant concentrations can be up to eight times higher than normal in the hours right after a fireworks show. One study conducted in Albany, New York, right after a celebration found that PM pollutant concentrations can be up to eight times higher than normal in the hours right after a fireworks show – and up to 10 times higher than even pollution from vehicle traffic in the same area (1). The study also pointed out that wind conditions can cause those pollutants to stay in the air for as long as five hours after a fireworks show – and up to 77% of the particulate pollution in the air originates from those fireworks alone. Other studies have shown similar increases in local air pollution right after a fireworks show and specified what exactly gets into the air after a few fireworks explosions: A 2007 study of fireworks during the lantern festival in Beijing, China analyzed the exact chemical reactions that occurred during a fireworks display – researchers found that fireworks resulted in five times the normal amount of PM and dangerous chemical pollutants in the air like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) (2). A 2014 study in Agra, India of fireworks pollution after the annual Deepawali “festival of light” found that toxic airborne pollutants from fireworks like PM, SO2, NO2, and ozone (O3) spiked as high as 293.5 μg/m3 for up to five days after fireworks shows ended – more than 2,800% higher than the limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) (3). A 2015 study of air quality at 315 locations around the United States after July 4th Independence Day celebrations found PM2.5 increases from 42% to 370% during a fireworks show, with the biggest jumps occurring around 9-10PM and lasting sometimes until noon on July 5th (4). A 2019 study of air quality in the Netherlands after New Year’s fireworks shows found that PM10 concentrations skyrocketed, on average, from around 29 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3) to 277 μg/m3 during the first hour after the show, an 855% increase – and in some places, as high as 598 μg/m3 (a nearly 2,000% increase!) (5). Does fireworks air pollution cause health problems? If you have a respiratory condition like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or chemical sensitivity, you probably already know the kind of symptoms that chemicals from a fireworks show can cause – shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain (6). But fireworks can be harmful even if you don’t have any existing respiratory issues. Some of the symptoms you might experience because of poor air quality caused by fireworks include (7,8): headaches anxiety from nervous system effects sore or swollen throat airway inflammation laryngitis having trouble breathing high blood pressure irregular heartbeat reduced lung function pneumonia heart attacks And even though fireworks only result in temporary increases in local air pollution, fireworks air pollution can travel for miles and cause bad air quality around the world, making the effects of air pollution more severe even in regions that never see a fireworks show. How do I protect myself from fireworks air pollution? The good thing about fireworks is that they’re usually temporary and can be easily avoided. Here are some tips for protecting yourself from the air pollution caused by fireworks: Use safe alternatives to traditional fireworks. Some of the world’s biggest buyers of fireworks, such as the Walt Disney Company, have received thousands of complaints about air pollution caused by their infamously theatrical nighttime shows at their theme parks in Anaheim, Orlando, and Hong Kong. In response, the company introduced fireworks that use compressed air instead of gunpowder (9). Some cities, like Aspen, Colorado and Shanghai, China are also seeking to use drones equipped with colored lights to create formations that are visually similar to fireworks to vastly reduce air pollution during holiday celebrations (10,11). Voice your concerns to officials. Live near a major source of fireworks? Some governments make concessions to businesses that host regular fireworks shows because they’re a big source of local revenue. Share your experiences and concerns with lawmakers regarding health effects of fireworks. Get others involved who may be experiencing the same issues. This can help change policy by limiting fireworks shows or ending them altogether. Shut your windows and doors. If you’re at home and live close to an area that has regular fireworks shows, close windows, doors, and any other openings in your home right before the fireworks start. Don’t open them again for a few hours, as fireworks pollution can linger and travel many miles for hours after the show ends. Purify the indoor air. Airborne pollutants from fireworks shows can still seep into your home even with everything closed up. Filter the air to capture any particulate and gas pollution that gets into your home, deliver fresh air into your indoor environment, and keep your indoor air quality safe. Find the right air purifier for your needs. Conclusion Many of us enjoy a good fireworks show and can’t remember a holiday celebration or theme park trip without one. But the truth is that fireworks add a significant amount of air pollution into your local atmosphere. These pollutants can last for hours or days on end, exposing you and your neighbors to possible long-term health effects. You can either move away, take precautions to protect yourself, or do something about it – fireworks shows may never go away, but there’s plenty you can do to help yourself and others confront the unique air quality problems associated with fireworks.","

Fireworks are beautiful – right? Your lungs would like to disagree.

Let’s get into the science behind the sparklers and find out:

what airborne pollutants fireworks produce
how fireworks shows impact air quality and your health
what you can do to protect yourself from fireworks air pollution

How do fireworks cause air pollution?
See how fireworks are made and how they create huge amounts of air pollution when they explode.

DOWNLOAD NOW

What are fireworks made of?

Every firework relies on a series of chemical reactions to achieve a certain size, color, or loudness. These chemicals are packed into a tube called an aerial shell that’s packed with chemicals and explosives.

Here’s the ingredient list for a typical firework.

Black powder

Sometimes called gunpowder, black powder helps the firework get into the air and blow up.

Black powder is a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate (also called salt pepper). It’s used in two important parts of the firework process:

Gunpowder blows up below the firework and propels it into the air.
A fuse that’s designed to delay until the firework’s in the air ignites the gunpowder, resulting in the explosion that creates the firework display.

Colorants

These are chemicals that help give fireworks their wide range of colors. Fireworks achieves certain colors and shades by applying heat to chemical compounds:

\nRed: strontium, lithium
\nOrange: calcium, calcium chloride
\nYellow: sodium, sodium chloride (salt)
\nGreen: barium, chlorine
\nBlue: copper, chlorine
\nPurple: mixture of copper (blue) and strontium (red)

“Stars”

These are the small concentrations of explosives in a firework that blow up and fly in many directions when ignited.

Notice how a firework looks like a bunch of long, bright light rockets? Each light results from a single “star” in the firework shell.

Stars can also be arranged in shapes inside the aerial shell so that they look like happy faces, hearts, or other shapes when they explode.

Do fireworks cause bad air quality?

Remember that fireworks are basically explosions of chemicals in solid form. Millions of combustion particles and gases are released into the air during these splashes of color on the sky. Many are also blown around for miles in atmospheric wind currents.

The most notable fireworks pollutant, particulate matter (PM), includes three distinct types of particles:

\nPM10: coarse particles ranging from 2.5–10 microns in diameter, such as dust, mold, and pollen
\nPM2.5: fine particles ranging from 0.3–2.5 microns in diameter, such as those created from combustion in vehicle engines or factory emissions
\nUltrafine particles (UFPs): tiny particles smaller than 0.3 microns in diameter – UFPs make up over 90% of all airborne particle pollution and are by far the most dangerous PM pollutant
\nVolatile organic compounds (VOCs): airborne vapor or gaseous compounds responsible for odors that are produced by chemical reactions in combustion, manufacturing, or industrial processes.

Fireworks generate huge concentrations of pollutants from colorants and explosives as well as from the metals and fuses that make up the firework itself.

PM pollutant concentrations can be up to eight times higher than normal in the hours right after a fireworks show.

One study conducted in Albany, New York, right after a celebration found that PM pollutant concentrations can be up to eight times higher than normal in the hours right after a fireworks show – and up to 10 times higher than even pollution from vehicle traffic in the same area (1).

The study also pointed out that wind conditions can cause those pollutants to stay in the air for as long as five hours after a fireworks show – and up to 77% of the particulate pollution in the air originates from those fireworks alone.

Other studies have shown similar increases in local air pollution right after a fireworks show and specified what exactly gets into the air after a few fireworks explosions:

A 2007 study of fireworks during the lantern festival in Beijing, China analyzed the exact chemical reactions that occurred during a fireworks display – researchers found that fireworks resulted in five times the normal amount of PM and dangerous chemical pollutants in the air like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) (2).
A 2014 study in Agra, India of fireworks pollution after the annual Deepawali “festival of light” found that toxic airborne pollutants from fireworks like PM, SO2, NO2, and ozone (O3) spiked as high as 293.5 μg/m3 for up to five days after fireworks shows ended – more than 2,800% higher than the limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) (3).
A 2015 study of air quality at 315 locations around the United States after July 4th Independence Day celebrations found PM2.5 increases from 42% to 370% during a fireworks show, with the biggest jumps occurring around 9-10PM and lasting sometimes until noon on July 5th (4).
A 2019 study of air quality in the Netherlands after New Year’s fireworks shows found that PM10 concentrations skyrocketed, on average, from around 29 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3) to 277 μg/m³ during the first hour after the show, an 855% increase – and in some places, as high as 598 μg/m3 (a nearly 2,000% increase!) (5).

Does fireworks air pollution cause health problems?

If you have a respiratory condition like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or chemical sensitivity, you probably already know the kind of symptoms that chemicals from a fireworks show can cause – shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain (6).

But fireworks can be harmful even if you don’t have any existing respiratory issues. Some of the symptoms you might experience because of poor air quality caused by fireworks include (7,8):

headaches
anxiety from nervous system effects
sore or swollen throat
airway inflammation
laryngitis
having trouble breathing
high blood pressure
irregular heartbeat
reduced lung function
pneumonia
heart attacks

And even though fireworks only result in temporary increases in local air pollution, fireworks air pollution can travel for miles and cause bad air quality around the world, making the effects of air pollution more severe even in regions that never see a fireworks show.

How do I protect myself from fireworks air pollution?

The good thing about fireworks is that they’re usually temporary and can be easily avoided. Here are some tips for protecting yourself from the air pollution caused by fireworks:

\nUse safe alternatives to traditional fireworks. Some of the world’s biggest buyers of fireworks, such as the Walt Disney Company, have received thousands of complaints about air pollution caused by their infamously theatrical nighttime shows at their theme parks in Anaheim, Orlando, and Hong Kong. In response, the company introduced fireworks that use compressed air instead of gunpowder (9). Some cities, like Aspen, Colorado and Shanghai, China are also seeking to use drones equipped with colored lights to create formations that are visually similar to fireworks to vastly reduce air pollution during holiday celebrations (10,11).
\nVoice your concerns to officials. Live near a major source of fireworks? Some governments make concessions to businesses that host regular fireworks shows because they’re a big source of local revenue. Share your experiences and concerns with lawmakers regarding health effects of fireworks. Get others involved who may be experiencing the same issues. This can help change policy by limiting fireworks shows or ending them altogether.
\nShut your windows and doors. If you’re at home and live close to an area that has regular fireworks shows, close windows, doors, and any other openings in your home right before the fireworks start. Don’t open them again for a few hours, as fireworks pollution can linger and travel many miles for hours after the show ends.
\nPurify the indoor air. Airborne pollutants from fireworks shows can still seep into your home even with everything closed up. Filter the air to capture any particulate and gas pollution that gets into your home, deliver fresh air into your indoor environment, and keep your indoor air quality safe. Find the right air purifier for your needs.

Conclusion

Many of us enjoy a good fireworks show and can’t remember a holiday celebration or theme park trip without one.

But the truth is that fireworks add a significant amount of air pollution into your local atmosphere. These pollutants can last for hours or days on end, exposing you and your neighbors to possible long-term health effects.

You can either move away, take precautions to protect yourself, or do something about it – fireworks shows may never go away, but there’s plenty you can do to help yourself and others confront the unique air quality problems associated with fireworks.

","are-fireworks-bad-for-air-quality","gid://shopify/Article/564856913998","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/are-fireworks-bad-for-air-quality","2024-12-26T13:00:00Z",[179,162],"Are fireworks bad for air quality?",{"_66":474,"_80":475,"_82":476,"_84":477,"_86":478},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269688537166","fireworks going off","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/AQL_Fireworks_Desktop_2_520x500_ddd9132c-d159-40f2-9990-04a4df400eed.jpg?v=1753348389",520,271,{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Even after a wildfire has been contained or extinguished, the effects can linger—especially in your home’s air. Smoke particles, ash, and soot often settle indoors, creating an environment that’s uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health. Restoring indoor air quality isn’t just about removing odors; it’s about clearing out harmful pollutants that may still be present even after the outdoor skies have cleared.By following these essential steps, you can remove lingering contaminants, create a healthier indoor environment, and ensure your home is a safe, clean space for you, your family, and even your pets. Smoke particles, ash, and soot often settle indoors, creating an environment that’s uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health. Step 1: Monitor your air quality Before you can restore clean air, you need to understand your current air quality situation. Monitoring your indoor and outdoor air quality will guide your next steps. Set up an indoor air quality monitor : An indoor air quality monitor helps you understand the types and levels of pollutants inside your home, such as PM2.5. By comparing it with outdoor data, you’ll know whether to ventilate or seal your home. Compare indoor and outdoor air quality: Download a free air quality app to track outdoor air pollution near your home. Compare these readings with your indoor air monitor to decide whether to ventilate or seal your space. Use an outdoor monitor for real-time data : Outdoor air quality monitors can provide hyper-local insights for your neighborhood and contribute to your understanding of the air quality outdoors after a wildfire event. By monitoring your air, you’ll gain the insights you need to make informed decisions for your family’s health. Here are some actions to take based on air quality: If outdoor air quality is good, open windows and doors to ventilate your space and remove stale air and help clear out odors. If outdoor air quality is poor, stay indoors and seal your home by keeping windows and doors shut. If you need to go outside when air quality is poor, wear a pollution mask. Step 2: Restore good indoor air quality Once you’ve taken immediate steps to guard against poor outdoor air quality, it’s time to enact a strategy to restore your indoor air quality. Use non-toxic cleaners to safely remove any dust, soot, and ash from surfaces. This prevents introducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into your air. Use a good quality face mask to while cleaning surfaces. Fire-related soot, just like household dust, becomes airborne during the cleaning process. Protect yourself and others in the household by masking up during the cleaning process. Run a high-performance air purifier equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, which captures the tiniest pollutants—including PM2.5 and ultrafine particles—and helps remove the dust launched through cleaning and smoke odors, restoring freshness to your space. Even if you stayed inside during a wildfire, you may have had to let your dogs outside. Although it’s not fun when pets are cooped up indoors, it's healthier for them. Please keep your pets indoors as much as possible; when they do go outdoors, limit their time outdoors. Wash them when they return indoors to remove any ash (1). Birds are particularly sensitive to wildfire smoke, so they should not be permitted outdoors (2). Think of creative ways to engage them indoors. Step 3: Maintain good indoor air quality Once your air has been cleaned, here are some steps to prevent further pollution and maintain a healthy indoor environment. Avoid adding new pollutants: Don’t light fireplaces or candles, as they can release harmful particles into the air. Avoid using strong fragrances or aerosol sprays, which can add VOCs to your indoor air. Use sustainable cooking and heating practices: When heating your home or cooking, use sustainable fuel sources and avoid using gas stoves. Regularly clean air filters: Check and replace filters in your air purifier and HVAC system to ensure peak performance. The takeaway Recovering from a wildfire takes time, but restoring your home’s indoor air quality is one of the most impactful steps you can take. By monitoring your air, using the right tools, and adopting healthy indoor practices, you can create a space where you and your family can breathe easy again—even after the smoke clears.","

Even after a wildfire has been contained or extinguished, the effects can linger—especially in your home’s air. Smoke particles, ash, and soot often settle indoors, creating an environment that’s uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health.

Restoring indoor air quality isn’t just about removing odors; it’s about clearing out harmful pollutants that may still be present even after the outdoor skies have cleared.

By following these essential steps, you can remove lingering contaminants, create a healthier indoor environment, and ensure your home is a safe, clean space for you, your family, and even your pets.

Smoke particles, ash, and soot often settle indoors, creating an environment that’s uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health.

Step 1: Monitor your air quality

Before you can restore clean air, you need to understand your current air quality situation. Monitoring your indoor and outdoor air quality will guide your next steps.

\nSet up an indoor air quality monitor : An indoor air quality monitor helps you understand the types and levels of pollutants inside your home, such as PM2.5. By comparing it with outdoor data, you’ll know whether to ventilate or seal your home.
\nCompare indoor and outdoor air quality: Download a free air quality app to track outdoor air pollution near your home. Compare these readings with your indoor air monitor to decide whether to ventilate or seal your space.
\nUse an outdoor monitor for real-time data : Outdoor air quality monitors can provide hyper-local insights for your neighborhood and contribute to your understanding of the air quality outdoors after a wildfire event.

By monitoring your air, you’ll gain the insights you need to make informed decisions for your family’s health. Here are some actions to take based on air quality:

If outdoor air quality is good, open windows and doors to ventilate your space and remove stale air and help clear out odors.
If outdoor air quality is poor, stay indoors and seal your home by keeping windows and doors shut.
If you need to go outside when air quality is poor, wear a pollution mask.

Step 2: Restore good indoor air quality

Once you’ve taken immediate steps to guard against poor outdoor air quality, it’s time to enact a strategy to restore your indoor air quality.

Use non-toxic cleaners to safely remove any dust, soot, and ash from surfaces. This prevents introducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into your air.
Use a good quality face mask to while cleaning surfaces. Fire-related soot, just like household dust, becomes airborne during the cleaning process. Protect yourself and others in the household by masking up during the cleaning process.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, which captures the tiniest pollutants—including PM2.5 and ultrafine particles—and helps remove the dust launched through cleaning and smoke odors, restoring freshness to your space.
Even if you stayed inside during a wildfire, you may have had to let your dogs outside. Although it’s not fun when pets are cooped up indoors, it's healthier for them. Please keep your pets indoors as much as possible; when they do go outdoors, limit their time outdoors. Wash them when they return indoors to remove any ash (1). Birds are particularly sensitive to wildfire smoke, so they should not be permitted outdoors (2). Think of creative ways to engage them indoors.

Step 3: Maintain good indoor air quality

Once your air has been cleaned, here are some steps to prevent further pollution and maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Avoid adding new pollutants:

Don’t light fireplaces or candles, as they can release harmful particles into the air.
Avoid using strong fragrances or aerosol sprays, which can add VOCs to your indoor air.
\nUse sustainable cooking and heating practices: When heating your home or cooking, use sustainable fuel sources and avoid using gas stoves.
Regularly clean air filters: Check and replace filters in your air purifier and HVAC system to ensure peak performance.

The takeaway

Recovering from a wildfire takes time, but restoring your home’s indoor air quality is one of the most impactful steps you can take. By monitoring your air, using the right tools, and adopting healthy indoor practices, you can create a space where you and your family can breathe easy again—even after the smoke clears.

","how-to-restore-your-indoor-air-quality-after-a-wildfire","gid://shopify/Article/634983415886","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/how-to-restore-your-indoor-air-quality-after-a-wildfire","2025-01-13T21:30:00Z",[179,162,212],"How to restore your indoor air quality after a wildfire",{"_66":490,"_80":491,"_82":492,"_84":477,"_86":478},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269875052622","wildfire smoke behind house","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Restore_Wildfire_AQL_Desktop_a_520x500_520x500_66b37c5d-954a-4e25-a75b-e35ad6bcd4fe.jpg?v=1755080491",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Wildfire ash is toxic and a serious health hazard Ash from wildfires is more than just dust; it contains toxic particles from burned vegetation, building materials, and chemicals. Breathing in ash can have immediate and long-term effects on your health, including: Short-term effects: Coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath. Long-term effects: Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even cancer due to carcinogenic compounds in the ash. Certain populations, such as children, pregnant people, older adults, and those with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions, are especially vulnerable. Even if AQI maps show “good” or “moderate” air quality, visible ash or the smell of smoke is a clear indicator to take precautions. Understanding the disconnect between AQI and wildfire ash It’s a perplexing scenario: You check your local air quality map, and the Air Quality Index (AQI) shows a reassuring green, indicating “good” air quality. Yet, outside your window, ash is visible in the air or blanketing outdoor surfaces. How can the air quality appear fine while wildfire ash poses a very real health risk? The discrepancy lies in how AQI is calculated. The AQI is calculated from measured levels of the five major air pollutants that are regulated by the Clean Air Act. Those include particle pollution of specific size ranges (PM10) and (PM2.5), as well as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide gaseous pollutants. Wildfire ash particles are typically larger than the particle size range measured for the AQI (larger than PM10) and fall outside the range of what most air quality sensors can detect. As Dr. Scott Epstein, an air quality assessment manager at AQMD, explains, “Windblown ash particles may be too large to be detected by air-quality instrumentation and not reflected in the Air Quality Index (AQI) map. Although the AQI may show green, hazardous ash may still be present in the air.” (1). This is particularly relevant in wildfire-prone areas during strong winds, which can stir up ash from burn scars even after fires have been extinguished. Smoke particles, ash, and soot often settle indoors, creating an environment that’s uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health. The unique health risks of wildfire ash The particulate matter pollutants incorporated into the AQI (PM10 and PM2.5) typically pose the greatest health threat because they can penetrate deeply into your lungs and bloodstream. Wildfire ash contains particles that are larger and can be seen with the naked eye. The body has natural defenses to prevent particles of this size from entering the lungs, but they can significantly irritate the eyes, nose, and throat (2). Although the AQI may show green, hazardous ash may still be present in the air. If you see ash, avoid it, it’s a serious health concern Wildfire ash is more than just a nuisance—it’s a toxic mixture of particles from burned vegetation, construction materials, and household items, many of which contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens. These particles can irritate your respiratory system and exacerbate conditions like asthma or heart disease. Even brief exposure to ash can lead to coughing, throat irritation, or difficulty breathing, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing health conditions. If you see ash outdoors, avoid disturbing it, as sweeping or blowing it into the air increases the risk of inhalation. Instead, take precautions to minimize contact, such as staying indoors, using and wearing a properly fitted mask if outdoor cleanup is unavoidable. How to protect yourself from wildfire ash Even if AQI maps show “good” or “moderate” air quality, visible ash or the smell of smoke is a clear indicator to take precautions. Here’s what you can do to stay safe (3)(4): Before Wildfire Season: Be Prepared 1. Stay Informed: Get real-time air quality alerts by downloading a free air quality app. Check your air quality both indoors and outdoors with an air quality monitor. 2. Prepare Your Home: Install high-efficiency (MERV 13 or higher) filters in your HVAC system. Run an air purifier for wildfire smoke to create a “clean room” in your home. 3. Stock Up on Masks: Keep a supply of face masks on hand to protect yourself when outdoors. 4. Plan Ahead for Medical Needs: If you or a family member has asthma or other respiratory conditions, consult your doctor and have at least a five-day supply of medication. 5. Use Generators Safely: If you plan to use a generator during power outages, place it outdoors, at least 20 feet from your home, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. During a Wildfire: Minimize Exposure 1. Stay Indoors: Close all windows and doors. If you have an HVAC system, run it with a clean filter and close the fresh air intake. 2. Create a Clean Room: Use an air purifier in a frequently used room (like a bedroom or living room) to filter out harmful particles. 3. Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary. If you must go out, wear a properly fitted mask. 4. Avoid Adding Indoor Pollutants: Refrain from burning candles, using fireplaces, or running gas stoves, as these can worsen indoor air quality. After a Wildfire: Clean Up Safely 1. Use Protective Gear: Wear goggles, gloves, and a mask when cleaning ash. Avoid direct skin contact. 2. Clean Gently: Lightly mist ash with water before sweeping to avoid stirring it back into the air. Avoid using leaf blowers. 3. Dispose of Ash Properly: Place ash in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it with regular trash. 4. Wash Pets and Toys: Remove ash from outdoor toys and pets to prevent them from bringing ash indoors. Conclusion While AQI maps are a helpful tool for tracking common air pollutants, they may not tell the full story—especially when it comes to wildfire ash. If you see ash in the air or on surfaces, take steps to protect yourself and your family. By preparing your home, creating a clean indoor environment, and using protective equipment, you can reduce exposure to ash and safeguard your health—even when the AQI appears deceptively green.","

Wildfire ash is toxic and a serious health hazard

Ash from wildfires is more than just dust; it contains toxic particles from burned vegetation, building materials, and chemicals. Breathing in ash can have immediate and long-term effects on your health, including:

Short-term effects: Coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath.
Long-term effects: Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even cancer due to carcinogenic compounds in the ash.

Certain populations, such as children, pregnant people, older adults, and those with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions, are especially vulnerable.

Even if AQI maps show “good” or “moderate” air quality, visible ash or the smell of smoke is a clear indicator to take precautions.

Understanding the disconnect between AQI and wildfire ash

It’s a perplexing scenario: You check your local air quality map, and the Air Quality Index (AQI) shows a reassuring green, indicating “good” air quality. Yet, outside your window, ash is visible in the air or blanketing outdoor surfaces. How can the air quality appear fine while wildfire ash poses a very real health risk?

The discrepancy lies in how AQI is calculated. The AQI is calculated from measured levels of the five major air pollutants that are regulated by the Clean Air Act. Those include particle pollution of specific size ranges (PM10) and (PM2.5), as well as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide gaseous pollutants. Wildfire ash particles are typically larger than the particle size range measured for the AQI (larger than PM10) and fall outside the range of what most air quality sensors can detect.

As Dr. Scott Epstein, an air quality assessment manager at AQMD, explains, “Windblown ash particles may be too large to be detected by air-quality instrumentation and not reflected in the Air Quality Index (AQI) map. Although the AQI may show green, hazardous ash may still be present in the air.” (1).

This is particularly relevant in wildfire-prone areas during strong winds, which can stir up ash from burn scars even after fires have been extinguished.

Smoke particles, ash, and soot often settle indoors, creating an environment that’s uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health.

The unique health risks of wildfire ash

The particulate matter pollutants incorporated into the AQI (PM10 and PM2.5) typically pose the greatest health threat because they can penetrate deeply into your lungs and bloodstream. Wildfire ash contains particles that are larger and can be seen with the naked eye. The body has natural defenses to prevent particles of this size from entering the lungs, but they can significantly irritate the eyes, nose, and throat (2).

Although the AQI may show green, hazardous ash may still be present in the air.

If you see ash, avoid it, it’s a serious health concern

Wildfire ash is more than just a nuisance—it’s a toxic mixture of particles from burned vegetation, construction materials, and household items, many of which contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens. These particles can irritate your respiratory system and exacerbate conditions like asthma or heart disease. Even brief exposure to ash can lead to coughing, throat irritation, or difficulty breathing, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

If you see ash outdoors, avoid disturbing it, as sweeping or blowing it into the air increases the risk of inhalation. Instead, take precautions to minimize contact, such as staying indoors, using and wearing a properly fitted mask if outdoor cleanup is unavoidable.

How to protect yourself from wildfire ash

Even if AQI maps show “good” or “moderate” air quality, visible ash or the smell of smoke is a clear indicator to take precautions. Here’s what you can do to stay safe (3)(4):

\nBefore Wildfire Season: Be Prepared\n

1. Stay Informed:

\n
- Get real-time air quality alerts by downloading a free air quality app.
- Check your air quality both indoors and outdoors with an air quality monitor.
\n

2. Prepare Your Home:

\n
- \nInstall high-efficiency (MERV 13 or higher) filters in your HVAC system.
- \nRun an air purifier for wildfire smoke to create a “clean room” in your home.
\n

3. Stock Up on Masks:

\n
- Keep a supply of face masks on hand to protect yourself when outdoors.
\n

4. Plan Ahead for Medical Needs:

\n
- If you or a family member has asthma or other respiratory conditions, consult your doctor and have at least a five-day supply of medication.
\n

5. Use Generators Safely:

\n
- If you plan to use a generator during power outages, place it outdoors, at least 20 feet from your home, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
\n

\nDuring a Wildfire: Minimize Exposure\n

1. Stay Indoors:

\n
- Close all windows and doors. If you have an HVAC system, run it with a clean filter and close the fresh air intake.
\n

2. Create a Clean Room:

\n
- \nUse an air purifier in a frequently used room (like a bedroom or living room) to filter out harmful particles.
\n

3. Limit Outdoor Activities:

\n
- Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary. If you must go out, wear a properly fitted mask.
\n

4. Avoid Adding Indoor Pollutants:

\n
- Refrain from burning candles, using fireplaces, or running gas stoves, as these can worsen indoor air quality.
\n

After a Wildfire: Clean Up Safely

1. Use Protective Gear:

\n
- Wear goggles, gloves, and a mask when cleaning ash. Avoid direct skin contact.
\n

2. Clean Gently:

\n
- Lightly mist ash with water before sweeping to avoid stirring it back into the air. Avoid using leaf blowers.
\n

3. Dispose of Ash Properly:

\n
- Place ash in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it with regular trash.
\n

4. Wash Pets and Toys:

\n
- Remove ash from outdoor toys and pets to prevent them from bringing ash indoors.
  \n
\n

Conclusion

While AQI maps are a helpful tool for tracking common air pollutants, they may not tell the full story—especially when it comes to wildfire ash. If you see ash in the air or on surfaces, take steps to protect yourself and your family.

By preparing your home, creating a clean indoor environment, and using protective equipment, you can reduce exposure to ash and safeguard your health—even when the AQI appears deceptively green.

","why-is-the-aqi-good-when-theres-ash-in-the-air","gid://shopify/Article/634992853070","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/why-is-the-aqi-good-when-theres-ash-in-the-air","2025-01-16T20:12:00Z",[179,162,212],"Why is the AQI \"good\" when there’s ash in the air?",{"_66":504,"_80":505,"_82":506,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269874266190","Smoke and embers from wildfire.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/Wildfire_Ash_Desktop_a_b32b6d86-ed80-4af1-9d65-55fe983b3c7a.jpg?v=1755076407",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Urban wildfire smoke can carry unexpected threats to human health on the wind. Better understand this invisible threat.","

Urban wildfire smoke can carry unexpected threats to human health on the wind. Better understand this invisible threat.

","Wildfires are no longer just a problem for remote forests—they’re burning in urban areas like Pacific Palisades and Altadena near Los Angeles, creating toxic smoke filled with harmful chemicals. From homes and vehicles to plastics and construction materials, the fuel in urban wildfires unleashes a dangerous cocktail of pollutants that can pose significant risks to human health. Urban wildfire smoke: No ordinary pollutant When wildfires occur in cities, the materials burned release far more than soot and ash—which is a mixture of all different size particles composed of different materials. Burned vegetation, vehicles, plastics, and building materials produce particulate matter and a variety of toxic compounds, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and metals like lead and arsenic. Researchers in Southern California found that PM2.5 (particles measuring 2.5 microns in diameter or less that can penetrate deeply into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases) from urban wildfires is up to 10 times more harmful to human health compared to PM2.5 from other pollution sources (1). What makes urban wildfire smoke so toxic? Urban wildfire smoke is more dangerous than smoke from forest fires because of the variety of materials burned. Homes, cars, and infrastructure release toxic compounds like: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): Known to cause cancer and damage the immune system. Dioxins and furans: Byproducts of burning plastics and other materials, linked to reproductive and developmental issues. Heavy metals: Materials like lead, arsenic, and chromium are released when metals and paints burn, posing risks of neurological and cardiovascular diseases. Lingering urban wildfire smoke mixes with other particle pollutants, amplifying long-term health risks. PM2.5 from wildfires is up to 10 times more harmful to human health compared to PM2.5 from other pollution sources. The health impacts of urban wildfire smoke Urban wildfire smoke can harm your health both immediately and over time: Short-term effects include coughing, throat irritation, difficulty breathing, and itchy eyes. Long-term effects from chronic exposure can include heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and even neurological issues. Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart disease, are at an even higher risk. Mental health effects Wildfires don’t just harm physical health—they also take a mental toll. Residents in fire-affected areas report higher rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can persist for years (2). The stress of displacement, loss of property, and ongoing exposure to poor air quality contributes to these long-term effects. “Urban wildfires unleash toxic compounds that continue to pose health risks long after the flames are gone.” Why urban wildfire smoke is hard to predict The chemistry of urban wildfire smoke is highly complex and depends on several factors, including: What burns: Different materials—like trees, vehicles, or buildings—release a wide range of pollutants, from natural compounds to toxic chemicals. How it burns: Higher temperatures produce more harmful secondary pollutants like ozone. How far the smoke travels: Sunlight and other pollutants can alter the composition of wildfire smoke as it disperses. Researchers found that urban wildfire smoke contains up to 1,000 times more toxic compounds than smoke from natural vegetation fires, underscoring the dangers of city-based blazes. Lingering effects after the smoke clears Even after the smoke has disappeared, harmful pollutants often remain in the environment. Ash from urban wildfires can contaminate soil and water supplies with PAHs and heavy metals, while toxic compounds can linger in homes for weeks or even months (3). A study following the 2021 Marshall Fire in Colorado found high levels of PAHs in ash and VOCs in indoor air samples, both of which are linked to respiratory, developmental, and reproductive health problems. Toxic pollutants were also found in nearby residences’ tap water (4). How to protect yourself from urban wildfire smoke Whether you’re living near an active fire zone or experiencing wildfire smoke carried by the wind, there are simple steps you can take to protect your health: Stay informed: Use an air quality monitor or app to track PM2.5 levels in your area. Wear a mask outdoors: Use a properly fitted mask to filter out harmful particles. Create a clean indoor environment: Run a high-efficiency air purifier in frequently used rooms. Seal doors and windows to keep outdoor air out. Avoid disturbing ash: When cleaning up ash, wear goggles, gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and shoes. Lightly mist ash with water, then sweep gently with a broom or wet mop. Do not use leaf blowers. Prepare for fire season: Install HEPA filters in your HVAC system. Stock up on masks and ensure you have emergency supplies ready. The takeaway Urban wildfire smoke isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a toxic threat to public health that requires attention and action. Protecting yourself and your family involves staying informed, improving indoor air quality, and taking proactive measures during wildfire season. As urban wildfires become more common due to climate change, it’s critical to advocate for stronger fire prevention measures and invest in technology that can monitor and mitigate air pollution. Together, we can build healthier, more resilient communities.","

Wildfires are no longer just a problem for remote forests—they’re burning in urban areas like Pacific Palisades and Altadena near Los Angeles, creating toxic smoke filled with harmful chemicals. From homes and vehicles to plastics and construction materials, the fuel in urban wildfires unleashes a dangerous cocktail of pollutants that can pose significant risks to human health.

Urban wildfire smoke: No ordinary pollutant

When wildfires occur in cities, the materials burned release far more than soot and ash—which is a mixture of all different size particles composed of different materials.

Burned vegetation, vehicles, plastics, and building materials produce particulate matter and a variety of toxic compounds, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and metals like lead and arsenic.

Researchers in Southern California found that PM2.5 (particles measuring 2.5 microns in diameter or less that can penetrate deeply into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases) from urban wildfires is up to 10 times more harmful to human health compared to PM2.5 from other pollution sources (1).

What makes urban wildfire smoke so toxic?

Urban wildfire smoke is more dangerous than smoke from forest fires because of the variety of materials burned. Homes, cars, and infrastructure release toxic compounds like:

\nPolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): Known to cause cancer and damage the immune system.
\nDioxins and furans: Byproducts of burning plastics and other materials, linked to reproductive and developmental issues.
\nHeavy metals: Materials like lead, arsenic, and chromium are released when metals and paints burn, posing risks of neurological and cardiovascular diseases.

Lingering urban wildfire smoke mixes with other particle pollutants, amplifying long-term health risks.

PM2.5 from wildfires is up to 10 times more harmful to human health compared to PM2.5 from other pollution sources.

The health impacts of urban wildfire smoke

Urban wildfire smoke can harm your health both immediately and over time:

\nShort-term effects include coughing, throat irritation, difficulty breathing, and itchy eyes.
\nLong-term effects from chronic exposure can include heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and even neurological issues.

Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart disease, are at an even higher risk.

Mental health effects

Wildfires don’t just harm physical health—they also take a mental toll. Residents in fire-affected areas report higher rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can persist for years (2). The stress of displacement, loss of property, and ongoing exposure to poor air quality contributes to these long-term effects.

“Urban wildfires unleash toxic compounds that continue to pose health risks long after the flames are gone.”

Why urban wildfire smoke is hard to predict

The chemistry of urban wildfire smoke is highly complex and depends on several factors, including:

\nWhat burns: Different materials—like trees, vehicles, or buildings—release a wide range of pollutants, from natural compounds to toxic chemicals.
\nHow it burns: Higher temperatures produce more harmful secondary pollutants like ozone.
\nHow far the smoke travels: Sunlight and other pollutants can alter the composition of wildfire smoke as it disperses.

Researchers found that urban wildfire smoke contains up to 1,000 times more toxic compounds than smoke from natural vegetation fires, underscoring the dangers of city-based blazes.

Lingering effects after the smoke clears

Even after the smoke has disappeared, harmful pollutants often remain in the environment. Ash from urban wildfires can contaminate soil and water supplies with PAHs and heavy metals, while toxic compounds can linger in homes for weeks or even months (3).

A study following the 2021 Marshall Fire in Colorado found high levels of PAHs in ash and VOCs in indoor air samples, both of which are linked to respiratory, developmental, and reproductive health problems. Toxic pollutants were also found in nearby residences’ tap water (4).

How to protect yourself from urban wildfire smoke

Whether you’re living near an active fire zone or experiencing wildfire smoke carried by the wind, there are simple steps you can take to protect your health:

\nStay informed: Use an air quality monitor or app to track PM2.5 levels in your area.
\nWear a mask outdoors: Use a properly fitted mask to filter out harmful particles.
\nCreate a clean indoor environment:\n
- \nRun a high-efficiency air purifier in frequently used rooms.
- Seal doors and windows to keep outdoor air out.
\n
\nAvoid disturbing ash: When cleaning up ash, wear goggles, gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and shoes. Lightly mist ash with water, then sweep gently with a broom or wet mop. Do not use leaf blowers.
\nPrepare for fire season:\n
- \nInstall HEPA filters in your HVAC system.
- Stock up on masks and ensure you have emergency supplies ready.
\n

The takeaway

Urban wildfire smoke isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a toxic threat to public health that requires attention and action. Protecting yourself and your family involves staying informed, improving indoor air quality, and taking proactive measures during wildfire season.

As urban wildfires become more common due to climate change, it’s critical to advocate for stronger fire prevention measures and invest in technology that can monitor and mitigate air pollution. Together, we can build healthier, more resilient communities.

","hidden-dangers-of-urban-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/634997964878","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-of-urban-wildfire-smoke","2025-01-17T18:13:00Z",[179,162,212],"The hidden dangers of urban wildfire smoke",{"_66":520,"_80":521,"_82":522,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/271819407438","Urban fire smoke.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/UrbanWildfireSmoke_Desktop_a.jpg?v=1771953690",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"Learn how to safely remove toxic ash, debris, and fire damage while protecting your health.","

Learn how to safely remove toxic ash, debris, and fire damage while protecting your health.

","After a wildfire, the dangers don’t end when the flames are extinguished. Ash and debris left behind may contain hazardous substances like asbestos, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals that can affect your lungs and skin. Without the right precautions, cleaning up your home could pose serious health risks. Before you begin, it’s important to learn how to safely remove wildfire ash, dispose of hazardous waste, and restore your home while protecting your health. This guide provides essential steps to protect yourself, prevent exposure to hazardous debris, and safely restore your home after a wildfire. Protect yourself from toxic ash and debris Wildfire ash and debris contain PM2.5 – fine particles – that can be easily inhaled or absorbed through the skin, making protective gear a necessity. Before beginning cleanup, wear an N95, KN95, or FFP2 mask and goggles (not safety glasses), heavy-duty gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Avoid open-toe footwear, as fire-damaged areas may contain sharp objects. It’s also critical to minimize airborne ash exposure. Avoid using leaf blowers or regular household vacuums, as they can stir up hazardous particles. Instead, lightly mist surfaces with water before sweeping to keep dust down. It's also important to regularly monitor your home's air quality after cleanup using an air quality app, as fine particles from the wildfire can linger in the air, even after visible debris is cleared. Consider running an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration indoors to help remove any lingering particles from the air. Safely removing ash and soot Wildfire ash and debris can contain toxic substances, including asbestos, heavy metals, and carcinogenic chemicals. Ash can settle both indoors and outdoors, requiring careful cleaning techniques to prevent exposure (1). Outdoor cleanup Removing ash from outdoor spaces requires a gentle approach to avoid dispersing fine particles into the air. Lightly mist driveways, patios, and other surfaces with water before sweeping to help contain the ash. If shoveling larger debris, work carefully to prevent spreading contaminants. When disposing of ash, seal it in plastic bags before placing it in the trash to prevent it from becoming airborne. Do not mix ash with compost or use it in gardens—wildfire ash may contain heavy metals and other toxins that could contaminate soil and water. Note: Before disposing of ash, check with your local waste management authority for proper disposal guidelines. Some areas require wildfire ash to be handled as hazardous waste and disposed of at designated facilities. Indoor cleanup Ash and soot can settle deep into carpets, furniture, and HVAC systems. To remove it safely, wipe down all hard surfaces with a damp cloth or mop. Use a non-toxic cleaner for walls, floors, and countertops. Avoid dry dusting or sweeping indoors, as this can send fine particles back into the air. Soft furnishings, bedding, and clothes should be washed separately in cold water to prevent contamination. Do not shake out ash-covered fabrics indoors. If your home’s ventilation system was running during the fire, check air filters and ducts for soot buildup, and replace air filters as needed. Handling fire-damaged structures and hazardous debris If your home or property has sustained fire damage, structural integrity could be compromised. Before entering a fire-damaged building, it’s a very good idea to have an inspector or structural engineer assess its safety. Fires can weaken floors, walls, and ceilings, increasing the risk of collapse. Burned materials, such as insulation, treated wood, and plastics can release harmful chemicals when disturbed. If your cleanup involves fire-damaged buildings or debris, it may be best to hire professionals who specialize in hazardous material cleanup. Safe water and food after a wildfire After a wildfire, drinking water and food supplies may be contaminated by ash, chemicals, and smoke residues. Following proper safety measures will help prevent exposure to toxins and reduce the risk of illness. Is your water safe to drink? Wildfires can compromise water quality, contaminating supply lines with chemicals like benzene and other volatile organic compounds. If local authorities have issued a “Do Not Drink” Notice, follow these guidelines: Do not drink, cook with, or brush your teeth with tap water. Do not boil contaminated water, as some chemicals can become airborne when heated. Use bottled water for drinking, food preparation, and hygiene until officials confirm the tap water is safe. Preventing food contamination after a wildfire Wildfire smoke and ash can contaminate food, making it unsafe to eat. If a power outage lasted more than four hours, discard perishable items like meat, dairy, and eggs. Do not re-freeze thawed food, as it may already be unsafe to consume. Throw away any food that was exposed to ash or soot. Sealed cans and jars may be safe to use, but they should be washed thoroughly before opening to prevent contamination. Staying safe around displaced wildlife and pests Wildfires displace wildlife, which can lead to increased sightings of rodents, snakes, and other animals in fire-affected areas. Keep food and garbage in sealed, rodent-proof containers to avoid attracting unwanted wildlife. Before moving debris, check for signs of animal nests. If you encounter injured or displaced wildlife, do not attempt to handle them—contact local animal rescue services for assistance. Conclusion Cleaning up after a wildfire requires caution, preparation, and proper safety measures. Toxic ash, debris, and fire-damaged structures can pose serious health risks, making protective gear, damp cleaning methods, and proper disposal techniques essential. Wear protective gear to prevent inhalation and skin contact with ash. Use water misting and HEPA-filter vacuums to minimize airborne particles. Run an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration to keep the air clean. Properly dispose of ash in sealed bags—do not compost or mix with soil. Follow water and food safety guidelines to prevent exposure to contaminants. Be mindful of displaced wildlife and avoid disturbing hazardous debris. Wildfire cleanup doesn’t stop once the visible debris is gone. Even after cleanup, toxic particles can linger in the air for weeks. Investing in proper air filtration and monitoring your indoor air quality can help ensure a truly safe and healthy home. Read our guide on how to restore indoor air quality after a wildfire to take the next step in your recovery.","

After a wildfire, the dangers don’t end when the flames are extinguished. Ash and debris left behind may contain hazardous substances like asbestos, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals that can affect your lungs and skin. Without the right precautions, cleaning up your home could pose serious health risks. Before you begin, it’s important to learn how to safely remove wildfire ash, dispose of hazardous waste, and restore your home while protecting your health.

This guide provides essential steps to protect yourself, prevent exposure to hazardous debris, and safely restore your home after a wildfire.

Protect yourself from toxic ash and debris

Wildfire ash and debris contain PM2.5 – fine particles – that can be easily inhaled or absorbed through the skin, making protective gear a necessity. Before beginning cleanup, wear an N95, KN95, or FFP2 mask and goggles (not safety glasses), heavy-duty gloves, long-sleeved clothing, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Avoid open-toe footwear, as fire-damaged areas may contain sharp objects.

It’s also critical to minimize airborne ash exposure. Avoid using leaf blowers or regular household vacuums, as they can stir up hazardous particles. Instead, lightly mist surfaces with water before sweeping to keep dust down.

It's also important to regularly monitor your home's air quality after cleanup using an air quality app, as fine particles from the wildfire can linger in the air, even after visible debris is cleared. Consider running an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration indoors to help remove any lingering particles from the air.

Safely removing ash and soot

Wildfire ash and debris can contain toxic substances, including asbestos, heavy metals, and carcinogenic chemicals. Ash can settle both indoors and outdoors, requiring careful cleaning techniques to prevent exposure (1).

Outdoor cleanup

Removing ash from outdoor spaces requires a gentle approach to avoid dispersing fine particles into the air. Lightly mist driveways, patios, and other surfaces with water before sweeping to help contain the ash. If shoveling larger debris, work carefully to prevent spreading contaminants.

When disposing of ash, seal it in plastic bags before placing it in the trash to prevent it from becoming airborne. Do not mix ash with compost or use it in gardens—wildfire ash may contain heavy metals and other toxins that could contaminate soil and water.

Note: Before disposing of ash, check with your local waste management authority for proper disposal guidelines. Some areas require wildfire ash to be handled as hazardous waste and disposed of at designated facilities.

Indoor cleanup

Ash and soot can settle deep into carpets, furniture, and HVAC systems. To remove it safely, wipe down all hard surfaces with a damp cloth or mop. Use a non-toxic cleaner for walls, floors, and countertops. Avoid dry dusting or sweeping indoors, as this can send fine particles back into the air.

Soft furnishings, bedding, and clothes should be washed separately in cold water to prevent contamination. Do not shake out ash-covered fabrics indoors. If your home’s ventilation system was running during the fire, check air filters and ducts for soot buildup, and replace air filters as needed.

Handling fire-damaged structures and hazardous debris

If your home or property has sustained fire damage, structural integrity could be compromised. Before entering a fire-damaged building, it’s a very good idea to have an inspector or structural engineer assess its safety. Fires can weaken floors, walls, and ceilings, increasing the risk of collapse.

Burned materials, such as insulation, treated wood, and plastics can release harmful chemicals when disturbed. If your cleanup involves fire-damaged buildings or debris, it may be best to hire professionals who specialize in hazardous material cleanup.

Safe water and food after a wildfire

After a wildfire, drinking water and food supplies may be contaminated by ash, chemicals, and smoke residues. Following proper safety measures will help prevent exposure to toxins and reduce the risk of illness.

Is your water safe to drink?

Wildfires can compromise water quality, contaminating supply lines with chemicals like benzene and other volatile organic compounds. If local authorities have issued a “Do Not Drink” Notice, follow these guidelines:

Do not drink, cook with, or brush your teeth with tap water.
Do not boil contaminated water, as some chemicals can become airborne when heated.
Use bottled water for drinking, food preparation, and hygiene until officials confirm the tap water is safe.

Preventing food contamination after a wildfire

Wildfire smoke and ash can contaminate food, making it unsafe to eat. If a power outage lasted more than four hours, discard perishable items like meat, dairy, and eggs. Do not re-freeze thawed food, as it may already be unsafe to consume.

Throw away any food that was exposed to ash or soot. Sealed cans and jars may be safe to use, but they should be washed thoroughly before opening to prevent contamination.

Staying safe around displaced wildlife and pests

Wildfires displace wildlife, which can lead to increased sightings of rodents, snakes, and other animals in fire-affected areas. Keep food and garbage in sealed, rodent-proof containers to avoid attracting unwanted wildlife.

Before moving debris, check for signs of animal nests. If you encounter injured or displaced wildlife, do not attempt to handle them—contact local animal rescue services for assistance.

Conclusion

Cleaning up after a wildfire requires caution, preparation, and proper safety measures. Toxic ash, debris, and fire-damaged structures can pose serious health risks, making protective gear, damp cleaning methods, and proper disposal techniques essential.

\nWear protective gear to prevent inhalation and skin contact with ash.
Use water misting and HEPA-filter vacuums to minimize airborne particles.
Run an air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration to keep the air clean.
Properly dispose of ash in sealed bags—do not compost or mix with soil.
Follow water and food safety guidelines to prevent exposure to contaminants.
Be mindful of displaced wildlife and avoid disturbing hazardous debris.

Wildfire cleanup doesn’t stop once the visible debris is gone. Even after cleanup, toxic particles can linger in the air for weeks. Investing in proper air filtration and monitoring your indoor air quality can help ensure a truly safe and healthy home. Read our guide on how to restore indoor air quality after a wildfire to take the next step in your recovery.

","how-to-safely-clean-up-after-a-wildfire","gid://shopify/Article/635037450318","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/how-to-safely-clean-up-after-a-wildfire","2025-02-03T20:00:00Z",[179,162,212],"How to safely clean up after a wildfire",{"_66":536,"_80":537,"_82":538,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/271820095566","Workers in protective suits cleaning debris after a wildfire","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/WildfireCleanup_Desktop_b.jpg?v=1771963152",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"To understand environmental justice, it helps to first look at environmental injustice. Environmental injustice (or environmental inequality) is the unequal distribution of the negative environmental consequences burdened on certain demographics.","To understand environmental justice, it helps to first look at environmental injustice. Environmental injustice (or environmental inequality) is the unequal distribution of the negative environmental consequences burdened on certain demographics.1 To understand environmental justice, first look at environmental injustice. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines environmental justice as “the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.”2 Having grown into a global movement, the United Nations expanded on this definition: the climate change, biodiversity and ecosystem loss, and pollution crises are “inextricably linked to the protection and fulfillment of human rights and sustainable development. (3)” The environmental justice (EJ) movement began as a reaction to the placement of pollution sources in low-income areas and “communities of color.” The rich history of the EJ movement traces its roots to the early 1960s when Latino farm workers organized for (among other things) protection from harmful pesticides in the farm fields.(4) Since then, statistical and demographic analyses have clearly shown that low-income areas and communities of color are overwhelmingly burdened with toxic landfills, polluting industrial plants, excessive truck and rail traffic and other pollution sources. Injustices can occur on a global scale as well, as wealthier nations rely on less wealthy countries to carry the burden of pollution through resource extraction and shifting solid and electronic waste through international trade (5). The environmental justice movement has sought to remedy this injustice through organized action. A few of the early key moments include: 1967 Houston, Texas: African-American students took to the streets of to oppose a city garbage dump in their community that had claimed the lives of two children (6). 1968 West Harlem, New York City: Residents fought unsuccessfully against the siting of a sewage treatment plant in their community. 1982 Warren County, North Carolina: The poor, overwhelmingly black county became the focus of national attention when residents took action with a sit-in against the state’s decision to dump 6,000 truckloads of soil laced with toxic PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) in a landfill near residential zones. Six weeks of marches and nonviolent street protests followed, and more than 500 people were arrested. The battle was lost, but the media attention inspired others who experienced similar injustice (7). 2014 Flint, Michigan: Flint switched its water source Detroit River and Lake Huron to the Flint River from April until October 2014. At the request of concerned citizens who noticed a change in water taste and color, water was independently tested in homes, documenting lead levels at 13,200 ppb; 5,000 ppb is considered hazardous (8). Citizen activism played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the crisis, eventually leading to a $641 million settlement, though accountability remains limited. The Flint water crisis exposed how systemic neglect disproportionately affects low-income, predominantly Black communities. 2017 Standing Rock Indian Reservation, North Dakota: From April 2016 until February 2017, protests took place in southern North Dakota opposing the proposed creation of an oil pipeline - the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) running near lands held by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe (9). The pipeline runs under Lake Oahe, a reservoir providing the tribe with drinking water. Authorities used force to end the protests, leading to at least 17 hospitalizations. Though the pipeline is operational, it was temporarily shut down in July 2020; it was soon reopened following appeals. Courts ordered an environmental review. The crisis over the pipeline drew national opposition and awareness of the controversy (10). The 1982 Warren County sit-in prompted the U.S. General Accounting Office to conduct the 1983 study titled “Siting of Hazardous Waste Landfills and Their Correlation with Racial and Economic Status of Surrounding Communities.” \"Three out of four landfills were in communities with black residents comprising at least 26 percent of the population and whose family incomes were below the poverty level.\" .pull-quote { font-size: 1.5rem; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: #333; border-left: 5px solid #ff6600; /* Adjust color as needed */ padding-left: 15px; margin: 20px 0; display: block; } The study found that three out of four hazardous waste landfills were in communities with black residents comprising at least 26 percent of the population and whose family incomes were below the poverty level (11). “Toxic Waste in the United States” energizes the movement “Toxic Waste in the United States” energizes the movement The first national U.S. study looking into race, class and the environment was published in 1987, titled “Toxic Waste in the United States.” This study galvanized the growing environmental justice movement, noting that: The socioeconomic status of residents plays an important role in the location of hazardous waste sites, but is not the foremost factor. The residents' race was the single most important factor in determining where toxic waste facilities were sited in the U.S. The siting of these facilities in communities of color was the intentional result of local, state and federal land-use policies. Statistically, it was determined with 99.99 percent confidence that the pattern of hazardous waste facilities being sited in minority communities is intentional.7 It was determined with confidence that the pattern of siting toxic facilities in minority communities is intentional. What’s meant by the term “environmental racism?” Environmental racism refers to the fact that, controlling for all other factors, race is the single most important determinant of who bears the burden of society’s pollution. One remarkable study done in the U.S. found that people of color are exposed to 38 percent more outdoor nitrogen dioxide (produced by vehicle exhaust and power plants) than whites. Published in 2014, the study looked at differences in pollution exposure by multiple categories, including race, income and education. While income plays a role, it’s not as pertinent as many assume (13). Low-income whites are exposed to less pollution than even the highest-income blacks, Asians, and Hispanics. Both race and income matter, but race matters more than income,\" says Julian Marshall, a professor of environmental engineering at the University of Minnesota. \"And that's a really important point, because when you start talking about differences by race people say, 'Oh, that's just income.'\"9 The study also reveals that, in large urban areas, low-income whites are exposed to less pollution than even the highest-income blacks, Asians, and Hispanics. \"Both race and income matter,but race matters more.\"- Julian Marshall, University of Minnesota From activism to policy: Environmental Justice by Order In 1994, President Clinton’s Executive Order 12898 on Environmental Justice required that all federal agencies \"make achieving environmental justice part of their mission by identifying and addressing, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of their programs, policies, and activities on minority populations and low-income populations.\" Environmental justice progressed from a reactionary movement to a preemptive requirement of policy planning. It was the first major federal action on environmental justice in the U.S. The landmark Order lacks specific requirements, but it did serve to bring legitimacy and attention to the environmental justice movement. The Order also inspired regulatory and policy actions by states to include environmental justice considerations in decision making.11 With this Order, environmental justice progressed from a reactionary movement to a preemptive requirement of policy planning. Currently, the 1994 Executive Order on Environmental Justice is considered part of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Currently, the 1994 Executive Order on Environmental Justice is considered part of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin in programs receiving federal financial assistance. The responsibility to uphold environmental justice sits with the EPA’s Office of Civil Rights, with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) serving a coordinating function. This leaves enforcement in the hands of the EPA, which some critics say has proven ineffective to moving environmental justice forward (16). An interesting suggestion to remedy this situation is reframing the legal aspect of environmental injustice as an issue of unequal protection under the law. This would shift the role of legally addressing the underenforcement of existing environmental laws from the EPA to the Justice Department. Communities could turn to the DOJ and claim unequal protection under the law. When environmental laws are not properly enforced in areas where minority communities live, it puts them at risk. In these cases, minority communities could turn to the federal DoJ and have their grievances addressed as unequal protection under the law (17). In 2021, President Biden launched Executive Order 14008, or Justice40. The order mandates that a minimum of 40% of certain federal investment benefits must be given to disadvantaged communities. The Environmental Protection Agency is required, under the mandate, to support clean water, superfund, brownfield, and diesel emissions reductions programs. Thinking locally and globally Environmental justice is a worldwide concern. Communities throughout the world are embracing environmental justice as they begin to understand its deep global context. Global problems include industrialized nations exporting toxic waste to poorer, developing nations. Pesticides pollute rivers that flow into neighboring countries. Air pollution from incinerators crosses borders to affect any communities or nations downwind (18). Members of minority groups and indigenous people bear a greater burden of the health problems that result from higher exposure to waste, air pollution, and extreme weather events caused by climate change. Exposure to waste and air pollution can occur due to unsafe or unhealthy work conditions where no regulations exist (or are unenforced) for poor workers, or in neighborhoods that are dangerously close to toxic materials and polluted roadways (19). In 2024, the British government apologized for the death of 9-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, who died from exposure to air pollution (20). Like far too many children living in low-income communities, she was exposed to dangerous levels of vehicle emissions as her community was positioned near heavily trafficked roadways. She develop severe asthma and experienced seizures due from air pollution. Her mother, Rosamund, fought to reopen the coroner’s inquest into Ella’s death, and Britain’s High Court found in 2020 that air pollution was a contributing factor. The British government has promised to pass legislation bringing the country’s air pollution in line with the World Health Organization’s air quality standards. How can I help the environmental justice movement? Community-based groups play an important role throughout the world in leading the effort to achieve environmental justice. These groups identify local issues and mobilize local action. But every individual can also have an impact by joining in the effort to fight environmental racism and work for environmental justice for all. Here are a few ideas: Get informed on pollution. Stay informed on what your city’s air quality looks like in real-time, and how your city’s air pollution ranks among other major cities. You can also help raise awareness of air quality issues by learning about the issues that affected your part of the world last year with the annual World Air Quality Report. Be an informed voter. Take a stand on environmental racism by researching candidates’ positions on environmental protection and supporting those who want to protect the environment for everyone, regardless of race or economic status. Support local community-based environmental justice organizations. Consider giving of your time, talents and pocketbook to help support local community groups that are defending environmental justice. Consider volunteering and joining the movement for clean air by providing your community with air quality data. Keep up to date with environmental justice cases. Visit Global Atlas of Environmental Justice and learn about environmental justice case studies currently happening anywhere in the world (21). Give kids a chance to breathe. Another way to make a difference is by supporting IQAir’s Clean Air for Kids. Poor classroom air quality affects the health of students and can impact academic performance and average daily attendance. Clean Air for Kids provides air filtration to schools in areas disproportionately affected by air pollution. Tell your representatives how you feel. Write to elected representatives and officials who represent you where you live to tell them how you feel about legislation advancing environmental justice. Become part of the solution. Buy less, consume less, and shop consciously. Buy products that are made responsibly and with a minimum of environmental damage. Research companies’ environmental justice policies and reputation before buying. Support clean air justice. By sharing data, adding communities to the air quality map, and deploying air quality sensors for communities, organizations can help communities most impacted by air pollution. The Takeaway Pollution does not discriminate who it affects. However, the evidence indicates that the burden of our collective pollution is unequally carried. When our most vulnerable communities are protected, everyone benefits. If we start there, a healthier future for all is achievable.","

To understand environmental justice, it helps to first look at environmental injustice. Environmental injustice (or environmental inequality) is the unequal distribution of the negative environmental consequences burdened on certain demographics.¹

To understand environmental justice, first look at environmental injustice.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines environmental justice as “the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.”²

Having grown into a global movement, the United Nations expanded on this definition: the climate change, biodiversity and ecosystem loss, and pollution crises are “inextricably linked to the protection and fulfillment of human rights and sustainable development. (3)”

The environmental justice (EJ) movement began as a reaction to the placement of pollution sources in low-income areas and “communities of color.” The rich history of the EJ movement traces its roots to the early 1960s when Latino farm workers organized for (among other things) protection from harmful pesticides in the farm fields.(4)

Since then, statistical and demographic analyses have clearly shown that low-income areas and communities of color are overwhelmingly burdened with toxic landfills, polluting industrial plants, excessive truck and rail traffic and other pollution sources. Injustices can occur on a global scale as well, as wealthier nations rely on less wealthy countries to carry the burden of pollution through resource extraction and shifting solid and electronic waste through international trade (5).

The environmental justice movement has sought to remedy this injustice through organized action. A few of the early key moments include:

\n\n\n
1967 Houston, Texas: African-American students took to the streets of to oppose a city garbage dump in their community that had claimed the lives of two children (6).
\n
\n
1968 West Harlem, New York City: Residents fought unsuccessfully against the siting of a sewage treatment plant in their community.
\n
\n
1982 Warren County, North Carolina: The poor, overwhelmingly black county became the focus of national attention when residents took action with a sit-in against the state’s decision to dump 6,000 truckloads of soil laced with toxic PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) in a landfill near residential zones. Six weeks of marches and nonviolent street protests followed, and more than 500 people were arrested. The battle was lost, but the media attention inspired others who experienced similar injustice (7).
\n
\n
2014 Flint, Michigan: Flint switched its water source Detroit River and Lake Huron to the Flint River from April until October 2014. At the request of concerned citizens who noticed a change in water taste and color, water was independently tested in homes, documenting lead levels at 13,200 ppb; 5,000 ppb is considered hazardous (8). Citizen activism played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the crisis, eventually leading to a $641 million settlement, though accountability remains limited. The Flint water crisis exposed how systemic neglect disproportionately affects low-income, predominantly Black communities.
\n
\n
2017 Standing Rock Indian Reservation, North Dakota: From April 2016 until February 2017, protests took place in southern North Dakota opposing the proposed creation of an oil pipeline - the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) running near lands held by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe (9). The pipeline runs under Lake Oahe, a reservoir providing the tribe with drinking water. Authorities used force to end the protests, leading to at least 17 hospitalizations. Though the pipeline is operational, it was temporarily shut down in July 2020; it was soon reopened following appeals. Courts ordered an environmental review. The crisis over the pipeline drew national opposition and awareness of the controversy (10).
\n\n

The 1982 Warren County sit-in prompted the U.S. General Accounting Office to conduct the 1983 study titled “Siting of Hazardous Waste Landfills and Their Correlation with Racial and Economic Status of Surrounding Communities.”

\"Three out of four landfills were in communities with black residents comprising at least 26 percent of the population and whose family incomes were below the poverty level.\"

\n\n

The study found that three out of four hazardous waste landfills were in communities with black residents comprising at least 26 percent of the population and whose family incomes were below the poverty level (11).

“Toxic Waste in the United States” energizes the movement

The first national U.S. study looking into race, class and the environment was published in 1987, titled “Toxic Waste in the United States.” This study galvanized the growing environmental justice movement, noting that:

The socioeconomic status of residents plays an important role in the location of hazardous waste sites, but is not the foremost factor.
The residents' race was the single most important factor in determining where toxic waste facilities were sited in the U.S.
The siting of these facilities in communities of color was the intentional result of local, state and federal land-use policies.
Statistically, it was determined with 99.99 percent confidence that the pattern of hazardous waste facilities being sited in minority communities is intentional.⁷\n

It was determined with confidence that the pattern of siting toxic facilities in minority communities is intentional.

What’s meant by the term “environmental racism?”

Environmental racism refers to the fact that, controlling for all other factors, race is the single most important determinant of who bears the burden of society’s pollution.

One remarkable study done in the U.S. found that people of color are exposed to 38 percent more outdoor nitrogen dioxide (produced by vehicle exhaust and power plants) than whites. Published in 2014, the study looked at differences in pollution exposure by multiple categories, including race, income and education. While income plays a role, it’s not as pertinent as many assume (13).

Low-income whites are exposed to less pollution than even the highest-income blacks, Asians, and Hispanics.

Both race and income matter, but race matters more than income,\" says Julian Marshall, a professor of environmental engineering at the University of Minnesota. \"And that's a really important point, because when you start talking about differences by race people say, 'Oh, that's just income.'\"⁹ The study also reveals that, in large urban areas, low-income whites are exposed to less pollution than even the highest-income blacks, Asians, and Hispanics.

\n\"Both race and income matter,but race matters more.\"
- Julian Marshall, University of Minnesota\n

From activism to policy: Environmental Justice by Order

In 1994, President Clinton’s Executive Order 12898 on Environmental Justice required that all federal agencies \"make achieving environmental justice part of their mission by identifying and addressing, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of their programs, policies, and activities on minority populations and low-income populations.\"

Environmental justice progressed from a reactionary movement to a preemptive requirement of policy planning.

It was the first major federal action on environmental justice in the U.S. The landmark Order lacks specific requirements, but it did serve to bring legitimacy and attention to the environmental justice movement. The Order also inspired regulatory and policy actions by states to include environmental justice considerations in decision making.¹¹

With this Order, environmental justice progressed from a reactionary movement to a preemptive requirement of policy planning.

Currently, the 1994 Executive Order on Environmental Justice is considered part of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Currently, the 1994 Executive Order on Environmental Justice is considered part of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin in programs receiving federal financial assistance. The responsibility to uphold environmental justice sits with the EPA’s Office of Civil Rights, with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) serving a coordinating function. This leaves enforcement in the hands of the EPA, which some critics say has proven ineffective to moving environmental justice forward (16).

An interesting suggestion to remedy this situation is reframing the legal aspect of environmental injustice as an issue of unequal protection under the law. This would shift the role of legally addressing the underenforcement of existing environmental laws from the EPA to the Justice Department.

Communities could turn to the DOJ and claim unequal protection under the law.

When environmental laws are not properly enforced in areas where minority communities live, it puts them at risk. In these cases, minority communities could turn to the federal DoJ and have their grievances addressed as unequal protection under the law (17).

In 2021, President Biden launched Executive Order 14008, or Justice40. The order mandates that a minimum of 40% of certain federal investment benefits must be given to disadvantaged communities. The Environmental Protection Agency is required, under the mandate, to support clean water, superfund, brownfield, and diesel emissions reductions programs.

Thinking locally and globally

Environmental justice is a worldwide concern. Communities throughout the world are embracing environmental justice as they begin to understand its deep global context. Global problems include industrialized nations exporting toxic waste to poorer, developing nations. Pesticides pollute rivers that flow into neighboring countries. Air pollution from incinerators crosses borders to affect any communities or nations downwind (18).

Members of minority groups and indigenous people bear a greater burden of the health problems that result from higher exposure to waste, air pollution, and extreme weather events caused by climate change. Exposure to waste and air pollution can occur due to unsafe or unhealthy work conditions where no regulations exist (or are unenforced) for poor workers, or in neighborhoods that are dangerously close to toxic materials and polluted roadways (19).

In 2024, the British government apologized for the death of 9-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, who died from exposure to air pollution (20). Like far too many children living in low-income communities, she was exposed to dangerous levels of vehicle emissions as her community was positioned near heavily trafficked roadways. She develop severe asthma and experienced seizures due from air pollution.

Her mother, Rosamund, fought to reopen the coroner’s inquest into Ella’s death, and Britain’s High Court found in 2020 that air pollution was a contributing factor. The British government has promised to pass legislation bringing the country’s air pollution in line with the World Health Organization’s air quality standards.

How can I help the environmental justice movement?

Community-based groups play an important role throughout the world in leading the effort to achieve environmental justice. These groups identify local issues and mobilize local action. But every individual can also have an impact by joining in the effort to fight environmental racism and work for environmental justice for all. Here are a few ideas:

\nGet informed on pollution. Stay informed on what your city’s air quality looks like in real-time, and how your city’s air pollution ranks among other major cities. You can also help raise awareness of air quality issues by learning about the issues that affected your part of the world last year with the annual World Air Quality Report.

\nBe an informed voter. Take a stand on environmental racism by researching candidates’ positions on environmental protection and supporting those who want to protect the environment for everyone, regardless of race or economic status. \n
\nSupport local community-based environmental justice organizations. Consider giving of your time, talents and pocketbook to help support local community groups that are defending environmental justice. Consider volunteering and joining the movement for clean air by providing your community with air quality data.
\nKeep up to date with environmental justice cases. Visit Global Atlas of Environmental Justice and learn about environmental justice case studies currently happening anywhere in the world (21).
\nGive kids a chance to breathe. Another way to make a difference is by supporting IQAir’s Clean Air for Kids. Poor classroom air quality affects the health of students and can impact academic performance and average daily attendance. Clean Air for Kids provides air filtration to schools in areas disproportionately affected by air pollution.
\nTell your representatives how you feel. Write to elected representatives and officials who represent you where you live to tell them how you feel about legislation advancing environmental justice.
\nBecome part of the solution. Buy less, consume less, and shop consciously. Buy products that are made responsibly and with a minimum of environmental damage. Research companies’ environmental justice policies and reputation before buying.
\nSupport clean air justice. By sharing data, adding communities to the air quality map, and deploying air quality sensors for communities, organizations can help communities most impacted by air pollution.

The Takeaway

Pollution does not discriminate who it affects. However, the evidence indicates that the burden of our collective pollution is unequally carried. When our most vulnerable communities are protected, everyone benefits. If we start there, a healthier future for all is achievable.

","what-is-environmental-justice","gid://shopify/Article/564862189646","https://shop.iqair.cn/en/blogs/news/what-is-environmental-justice","2025-02-17T19:45:09Z",[179,211,109,162],"What is environmental justice?",{"_66":551,"_80":552,"_82":553,"_84":85,"_86":87},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/269515325518","Production facility emitting pollution from smokestacks","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0018/4411/7571/articles/180220_what_is_ej_35d1ffbc-61f6-40f4-9de6-d59e58858e54.jpg?v=1751975336",{"_91":92},{"_64":90},"The EPA’s rollbacks could increase air pollution, putting millions at risk. Learn how to protect yourself.","

The EPA’s rollbacks could increase air pollution, putting millions at risk. Learn how to protect yourself.

","For decades, air quality regulations have helped prevent respiratory diseases and improve public health. But a new wave of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rollbacks could unravel that progress—leading to dirtier air, higher health risks, and rising pollution levels. On March 12, 2025, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced plans to begin the process of rolling back 31 environmental regulations, including measures that limit power plant emissions, vehicle pollution, and industrial toxins. If implemented, these changes could lead to higher pollution levels, increased respiratory diseases, and environmental setbacks (1). \"This isn’t about abandoning environmental protection,” Zeldin said. “It’s about achieving it through innovation and not strangulation.\" These changes are “taking us back to a time of unfettered pollution across the nation, leaving every American exposed to toxic chemicals, dirty air and contaminated water.” -Matthew Tejada, SVP, Natural Resources Defense Council While these rollbacks are not yet finalized, the announcement sets in motion a regulatory process that, if unchecked, could dismantle decades of environmental protections. Environmental and public health experts strongly disagree with Zeldin's plans, warning that these rollbacks could cause the greatest increase in pollution in decades. Matthew Tejada, Senior Vice President of Environmental Health at the NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), sharply criticized the changes, warning that these rollbacks are “taking us back to a time of unfettered pollution across the nation, leaving every American exposed to toxic chemicals, dirty air, and contaminated water.\" Which air quality protections are being rolled back? 1. Reconsideration of power plant regulations The EPA is proposing to loosen regulatory limits and reporting requirements for GHG (greenhouse gases), mercury, and other air toxics emitted from power plants. Why it matters: PM2.5 pollution is linked to asthma, lung disease, and heart conditions. Greenhouse gas emissions trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming, extreme weather events, and long-term climate instability. Mercury exposure can cause neurological damage, particularly in children. 2. Reconsideration of the Endangerment Finding for Greenhouse Gases The 2009 Endangerment Finding is the scientific foundation for regulating carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act (2). Why it matters: Without the Endangerment Finding, the EPA would no longer be required to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. Without the Endangerment Finding and the regulations based on it, greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, automobiles, and other industries would likely increase--worsening climate change, extreme weather events, and air pollution over time. 3. Rolling back vehicle emissions standards New policies aim to reduce fuel efficiency and emission requirements for cars and trucks. Why it matters: Tailpipe emissions contribute to smog, respiratory diseases, and worsening urban air quality. Vehicle emissions disproportionately impact low-income communities located near highways. 4. Eliminating the “Good Neighbor” Rule The EPA plans to remove regulations that limit air pollution drifting across state lines, which previously helped reduce smog in downwind communities. Why it matters: Weakening this rule will allow more pollution to accumulate, leading to an increase in respiratory illnesses. States with strict air quality laws could still suffer from pollution coming from neighboring states. 5. Cutting environmental justice programs The EPA will dismantle initiatives aimed at reducing pollution in low-income and minority communities, which are often exposed to higher levels of air pollution. Why it matters: Communities of color and low-income areas already experience the highest asthma rates and pollution-related illnesses. Eliminating these programs could widen the health disparity between wealthy and disadvantaged communities. How does this impact public health? Air pollution is more than an environmental issue—it’s a public health crisis. The scientific community has repeatedly linked airborne pollutants like PM2.5, NO₂, and ozone to: Higher rates of asthma and lung disease Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes Premature deaths, particularly in children and seniors Lower life expectancy in areas with persistent air pollution A 2022 study by the University of Chicago found that reductions in air pollution have directly increased life expectancy in the U.S. and other countries (3). If these protections are removed, millions of Americans could face increased health risks. What can be done? With federal protections weakening, independent air quality monitoring is more important than ever. Here’s how you can take action: Stay informed: Use the AirVisual Platform to track real-time air pollution levels in your area. Advocate for clean air policies: Support local and state initiatives that protect air quality, especially in the absence of federal action. Join the movement: Programs like IQAir’s Schools4Earth provide schools and communities with the tools to monitor and improve air quality independently. The takeaway The EPA’s rollback of air quality protections could mean dirtier air and higher health risks. But you can take action. Advocate for clean air policies, monitor your local air quality, and do what you can as an individual to protect the environment. While these rollbacks are not yet finalized, the regulatory process has already begun—making it critical to stay informed and engaged. Without public input and opposition, decades of progress in environmental and public health protections could be undone. Together, we can fight for clean air by staying informed, advocating for stronger policies, and using technology to monitor and reduce pollution—no matter what policies change.","

For decades, air quality regulations have helped prevent respiratory diseases and improve public health. But a new wave of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rollbacks could unravel that progress—leading to dirtier air, higher health risks, and rising pollution levels.

On March 12, 2025, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced plans to begin the process of rolling back 31 environmental regulations, including measures that limit power plant emissions, vehicle pollution, and industrial toxins. If implemented, these changes could lead to higher pollution levels, increased respiratory diseases, and environmental setbacks (1).

\"This isn’t about abandoning environmental protection,” Zeldin said. “It’s about achieving it through innovation and not strangulation.\"

\n
These changes are “taking us back to a time of unfettered pollution across the nation, leaving every American exposed to toxic chemicals, dirty air and contaminated water.”
\n
-Matthew Tejada, SVP, Natural Resources Defense Council
\n

While these rollbacks are not yet finalized, the announcement sets in motion a regulatory process that, if unchecked, could dismantle decades of environmental protections.

Environmental and public health experts strongly disagree with Zeldin's plans, warning that these rollbacks could cause the greatest increase in pollution in decades. Matthew Tejada, Senior Vice President of Environmental Health at the NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council), sharply criticized the changes, warning that these rollbacks are “taking us back to a time of unfettered pollution across the nation, leaving every American exposed to toxic chemicals, dirty air, and contaminated water.\"

Which air quality protections are being rolled back?

1. Reconsideration of power plant regulations

The EPA is proposing to loosen regulatory limits and reporting requirements for GHG (greenhouse gases), mercury, and other air toxics emitted from power plants.

Why it matters:

\n
PM2.5 pollution is linked to asthma, lung disease, and heart conditions. Greenhouse gas emissions trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming, extreme weather events, and long-term climate instability.
\n
\n
Mercury exposure can cause neurological damage, particularly in children.
\n

2. Reconsideration of the Endangerment Finding for Greenhouse Gases

The 2009 Endangerment Finding is the scientific foundation for regulating carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act (2).

Why it matters:

\n
Without the Endangerment Finding, the EPA would no longer be required to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act.
\n
\n
Without the Endangerment Finding and the regulations based on it, greenhouse gas emissions from power plants, automobiles, and other industries would likely increase--worsening climate change, extreme weather events, and air pollution over time.
\n

3. Rolling back vehicle emissions standards

New policies aim to reduce fuel efficiency and emission requirements for cars and trucks.

Why it matters:

\n
Tailpipe emissions contribute to smog, respiratory diseases, and worsening urban air quality.
\n
\n
Vehicle emissions disproportionately impact low-income communities located near highways.
\n

4. Eliminating the “Good Neighbor” Rule

The EPA plans to remove regulations that limit air pollution drifting across state lines, which previously helped reduce smog in downwind communities.

Why it matters:

\n
Weakening this rule will allow more pollution to accumulate, leading to an increase in respiratory illnesses.
\n
\n
States with strict air quality laws could still suffer from pollution coming from neighboring states.
\n

5. Cutting environmental justice programs

The EPA will dismantle initiatives aimed at reducing pollution in low-income and minority communities, which are often exposed to higher levels of air pollution.

\nWhy it matters:\n

\n
Communities of color and low-income areas already experience the highest asthma rates and pollution-related illnesses.
\n
\n
Eliminating these programs could widen the health disparity between wealthy and disadvantaged communities.
\n

How does this impact public health?

Air pollution is more than an environmental issue—it’s a public health crisis. The scientific community has repeatedly linked airborne pollutants like PM2.5, NO₂, and ozone to:

\n
Higher rates of asthma and lung disease
\n
\n
Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
\n
\n
Premature deaths, particularly in children and seniors
\n
\n
Lower life expectancy in areas with persistent air pollution
\n

A 2022 study by the University of Chicago found that reductions in air pollution have directly increased life expectancy in the U.S. and other countries (3). If these protections are removed, millions of Americans could face increased health risks.

What can be done?

With federal protections weakening, independent air quality monitoring is more important than ever.

Here’s how you can take action:

\n
Stay informed: Use the AirVisual Platform to track real-time air pollution levels in your area.
\n
\n
Advocate for clean air policies: Support local and state initiatives that protect air quality, especially in the absence of federal action.
\n
\n
Join the movement: Programs like IQAir’s Schools4Earth provide schools and communities with the tools to monitor and improve air quality independently.
\n

The takeaway

The EPA’s rollback of air quality protections could mean dirtier air and higher health risks. But you can take action. Advocate for clean air policies, monitor your local air quality, and do what you can as an individual to protect the environment.

While these rollbacks are not yet finalized, the regulatory process has already begun—making it critical to stay informed and engaged. Without public input and opposition, decades of progress in environmental and public health protections could be undone.

Together, we can fight for clean air by staying informed, advocating for stronger policies, and using technology to monitor and reduce pollution—no matter what policies change.

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