In recent years several studies have illustrated the dire risks of air pollution. Now a new UK Study of over 5000 adults has linked dirty air with premature death. Black smoke and sulphur dioxide in particular were found to be the most serious risk.

According to the study, even comparatively low levels of air pollution boost the chances of an early grave. These findings confirm the enduring legacy of air pollution on health, say the authors. And they "point to continuing public health risks even at the relatively low levels of black smoke and sulphur dioxide that now occur."

But staying indoors may not be the best solution. Research has indicated that indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor. New buildings or recently remodeled buildings are especially prone to emit indoor toxins. New paint, carpets, furniture, newly stained or sealed woods and plastics all release chemicals. At the office, copiers, inks and cleaning supplies also release fumes—some of which can be detected for up to a year!

So is there an easy way to make your own home or office air cleaner? Yes. NASA research scientist Dr. Bill Wolverton who led the NASA Clean Air Study says they found that common indoor landscaping plants were quite impressive in their ability to remove pollutants from the indoor environment.

Based on this research, Wolverton recommends placing one ornamental indoor plant per 100 square feet of office space. Some plants appear to be better at removing a particular toxin vs. another, so it’s best to use a mix of large leafy plants species if you want to combat a fuller range of toxins.

"We feel that future results will provide an even stronger argument that common indoor landscaping plants can be a very effective part of a system used to provide pollution free homes and work places," he has said.

In fact, NASA was so impressed with the results that they will be incorporating plants into future space stations to create a healthier environment for the crew. Fortunately, us Earthlings can start enjoying the benefits right away. As an added bonus, indoor houseplants are very affordable and low maintenance—especially when compared to high tech gadgets designed for the same purpose.

FYI, the American Lung Association’s 2007 "State of the Air" report says that the 5 US cities with the dirtiest air are:

Los Angeles-Long Beach-Riverside, Calif.
Pittsburgh-New Castle, Pa.
Bakersfield, Calif.
Birmingham-Hoover-Cullman, Ala.
Detroit-Warren-Flint, Mich.

The 5 US cities with the cleanest are:

Cheyenne, Wyo.
Santa Fe-Espanola, N.M.
Honolulu
Great Falls, Mont.
Farmington, N.M.

Posted by Rebecca Sato

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