Clean Air Day 2024 is approaching fast, and it’s time to join the movement for healthier air… writes Julie Burniston.
Clean Air Day is an annual event designed to raise awareness about air pollution and promote actions to improve air quality. The UK’s largest air pollution campaign is celebrated this year
on 20th June with the theme ‘Together for Clean Air’ and will see thousands of people up and down the country come together to voice support, hold events and make pledges to take action on toxic air.
But why does clean air matter? Well, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the UK government recognises that air pollution poses one of the most significant environmental health risks of our time. It’s linked to various health issues, including heart and lung diseases, low birth weight and deficient lung development in children, and even mental health problems. Shockingly, air pollution contributes to up to 36,000 deaths in the UK every year.
Taking action for clean air
By making some small changes at home, you can help to combat air pollution, protect the earth’s atmosphere, and ensure healthier air for everyone. Doing so is easy and the benefits are huge. Clean air reduces the risk of respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung infections and improves lung function and overall wellbeing. It also lowers the chances of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues, positively impacts brain health, promotes better sleep, leading to improved mental and physical health and contributes to overall health and longevity. For the planet, clean air benefits ecosystems by supporting plant growth, reducing soil and water pollution, and preserving biodiversity.
Improving indoor air quality
Indoor air pollution levels can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels, according to Britsafe (British Safety Council). Various pollutants, including dust, pollen, pet hair, mould, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning supplies, paint, glue, and air fresheners, can accumulate indoors, leading to poor indoor air quality. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can cause a range of health problems, from minor irritations such as headaches and nausea to more serious conditions such as asthma, allergies, and even lung cancer.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to improve the air quality in your home, creating a healthier environment for you and your family:
Regular cleaning: Dust and vacuum regularly, paying attention to areas where dust accumulates, such as carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Decluttering your home can also help reduce the surfaces where dust and allergens can collect.
Proper ventilation: Open windows and doors whenever possible to allow fresh air to circulate throughout your home. Consider installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and pollutants.
Air purifiers: Look for a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to remove pollutants, allergens, and odours from the air in your home.
Maintain humidity levels: Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent the growth of mould, mildew, and dust mites.
Avoid tobacco smoke indoors: If you smoke, consider doing so outdoors to prevent pollutants from accumulating indoors.
Switch to green cleaning products: Opt for natural cleaning products or make your own using ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.
Bring nature indoors: Certain indoor plants, such as spider plants, peace lilies, and Boston ferns, can help improve indoor air quality by absorbing harmful pollutants and releasing oxygen.
Raise awareness and take action for cleaner air by visiting Actionforcleanair.org.uk to get involved in the campaign.
