5 Methods to Reduce Indoor Air Pollution.

Indoor air pollution is among of the most dangerous environmental threats that we face in 21st century. Based on the World Health Organization over 7 million people per year die because of the adverse effects on the effects of pollution on the cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems. Recent research have also discovered that indoor air pollution could also be devastating to mental health, from mental disorders to neurodegenerative illnesses. Let’s look at ways we can limit the exposure to indoor air pollution, thereby avoiding mental and physical health problems:



1. Natural Ventilation

It’s the best method to let fresh air in living spaces. Natural ventilation can replace the stale air with fresh air aiding in controlling the temperature in the room and replenish oxygen levels, as well as removing pollutants from the air and maldors and removing carbon dioxide.

Indoor activities that require a short time of duration, such as paint, welding, and sanding, can result in excessive levels of toxic substances which can persist within the air for many years without ventilation systems. Indoor pollutants that cause harm such as formaldehyde and Radon, may contribute to the development of illnesses related to building, commonly referred to as sick building syndrome. It is crucial to ensure a good design in the design of your ventilation systems to ensure that indoor air is free of pollutants.

2. Air Cleaners

A cleaner for the air improves inside air’s cleanliness by taking contaminants from the air within an enclosed space, particularly particles. Air purifiers effectively eliminate the typical indoor air pollutants like malodors dirt, smoke, and pet Dander. The filter in purified air traps pollutant while the fresh air is introduced to the room through the built-in fan. The filters are comprised of either fiberglass or paper mesh, and need periodic cleansing and replacement.



3. Dehumidifiers

The humidity of the air has a profound effect on the indoor air quality. The high humidity levels promote the development of mold, pollen, dust mites and bacteria, as well as increasing the amount of VOCs. The goal of a dehumidifier is lower the amount of moisture (between 35 and 50 percent) which results in improving the quality of indoor air.



Utilizing fans using a fan, the dehumidifier draws warm air currents through its coils, which expand as it is fed by the refrigerated. The condensation remains within the dehumidifier before it is absorbed in the tank for storage, while the air that has dried is let out back to the room.

4. Houseplants

The plants have powerful air cleansing properties and can absorb air pollution which makes them an air purifier natural which is cost-effective as well as therapeutic. House plants trap harmful toxins, and eliminate common chemical compounds like formaldehyde, benzene, and Trichlorothylene. A few of the most well-known air purifying indoor plants include the spider plant, rubber tree the snake plant, peace lily, and weeping fig. So we must consider them while designing the interior of our house.

5. Therapeutic Methods

There are mental health problems related to the indoor air pollution could be addressed with therapeutic tools. Environmental therapy seeks to address environmental-related health issues by enhancing connections between the surrounding environmental elements and their surroundings. The most popular activities for therapy based on nature include nature meditation or horticultural therapy. It also includes animals-assisted therapy, and conservation efforts.

Light therapy is a new treatment that involves the use of a synthetic source of light in order to treat depressive problems that involve sleeping issues, seasonal patterns and various other forms of depression. The patient is seated in an apparatus called a the light therapy device that emits glowing light that resembles natural light. It is thought that light therapy has positive effects on the brain chemical that is linked to sleep and mood, and thus helps in easing depression.

It is because human is supposed to be the best creature of nature and most of the human depression and anxiety is because by human’s anti-nature activities. So, nowadays, we see that every nature-friendly move is healthy for human health.

Therapy with light beams is also called phytotherapy.

Bottom Line

Air pollution in the indoor environment is responsible for a variety of mental and physical health problems. We are more exposed to our indoor environment. Every hazard present in our indoor environment can cause way for damage to us than the outdoor environment. So while building houses, we must consider the natural ventilation factor. It will benefit us in two ways. 

First, it will increase the aesthetic value of our houses and it will give way to the harmful substances that can be produced in case of paint, welding or any kind of activity.

Secondly, To lessen the harmful effects on your health from pollution in the air, enhance natural ventilation, employ air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and plants in your home and select the use of therapeutic tools.

Author: Engr. Husnain SultanEnvironmental Engineer. Passionate to spread awareness regarding current and future environmental crisis.An international consultant, advisor and trainer with expertise in waste management, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, environment protection and resource conservation.

Leave a Comment