In a previous blog post, I discussed the health hazards of outdoor air pollution and ways to reduce health risks by reducing exposure. There is mounting evidence that we should also consider indoor air quality as studies point to the potential dangers of gas stoves.
If you’re like many people with a gas stove, understanding the problem and taking some action can help protect your home. These steps also help improve outdoor air quality.
Cooking on a gas stove produces nitrogen dioxide and releases additional tiny PM2.5 particles in the air that irritate the lungs. Nitrogen dioxide has been linked to childhood asthma. In 2019 alone, it is estimated that almost 2 million new cases of childhood asthma worldwide were caused by nitrogen dioxide pollution.
According to an analysis of observational studies, children living in households where gas stoves are used for cooking are 42% more likely to develop asthma. Although observational studies cannot prove that gas cooking is a direct cause of asthma, evidence also suggests that higher levels of nitrogen dioxide are associated with worsening asthma symptoms in children and adults.
Cooking and baking with gas appliances releases large amounts of nitrogen dioxide. In a recently published study by scientists at Stanford University, nitrogen dioxide emissions from some gas burners or ovens were calculated to exceed the EPA’s outdoor air limits for several minutes. The EPA does not currently set standards for indoor safety levels.
Organizations such as the Massachusetts Medical Association and the American Medical Association are working to raise awareness of these risks among physicians and the public. However, most of this information still surprised many.
In a Stanford University study, gas stoves were tested in 53 homes. All furnaces produced methane gas even when they were turned off. Leaks accounted for 76 percent of total methane emissions. Both methane and nitrogen dioxide contribute to air pollution by producing ground-level ozone and smog. Methane is also a major greenhouse gas and contributes to climate change. Notably, in this study, methane and nitrogen dioxide emissions were not associated with age or price of gas stoves.
Moreover, a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health. T. H. Chana and PSE Healthy Energy, shows that gas appliances also bring other toxic chemicals into homes. The researchers collected unburned gas from furnaces and building chimneys in the Greater Boston area. In their analysis, they identified 21 different dangerous air pollutants called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). For example, benzene, hexane, and toluene were present in nearly all of the gas samples tested. Exposure to certain volatile organic compounds increases the risk of developing asthma, cancer, and other diseases.
Although they cannot remove all pollutants, air purifiers can improve indoor air quality. Choose an air purifier with a high clean air delivery rate (CADR) that matches the size of your room. The air purifier is easy to move, during the day it can be placed next to the kitchen, and during sleep it can be moved to the bedroom. Don’t forget to replace dirty filters.
Cost, confusion, and concern for the environment can influence your choice. The production of new equipment requires natural resources, and old equipment often ends up in landfills. Here are a few options to consider:
This transition will also help the environment, as the appliances do not use methane gas and can run on renewable, clean energy. Ultimately, taking action on climate change means taking action to make the planet healthier and you healthier.
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Nothing on this website, regardless of date, should be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your physician or other qualified physician.
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Post time: Sep-25-2022