Indoor air pollution (IAP) refers to harmful contaminants in indoor air that adversely affect health, with common pollutants including mold, VOCs, and particulate matter. The EPA estimates indoor pollution can be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels, leading to significant health issues, including millions of deaths annually. Control strategies involve source reduction, improved ventilation, and air purification to enhance indoor air quality and protect health.

1. By: Rohinee Bishwas

2. Definition of Indoor Air Pollution
:
Indoor Air Pollution (IAP) The presence of
harmful contaminants in indoor air that can
.
adversely affect human health and comfort
Key Difference from Outdoor Air
Pollution:
• .
Sources and types of pollutants often differ
• .
Exposure is more prolonged and concentrated

5. Common Indoor Air
Pollutants and Their Health
Impacts
• Biological Pollutants:
• Mold and Mildew: Respiratory problems, allergies
• Bacteria and Viruses: Infections
• Dust Mites: Allergies, asthma
• Pet Dander: Allergies, asthma

6. • Chemical Pollutants:
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Eye, nose, and
throat irritation, headaches, nausea
• Formaldehyde: Respiratory problems, cancer
• Carbon Monoxide: Headaches, dizziness, death
• Nitrogen Dioxide: Respiratory problems, particularly
in children and the elderly

7. • Particulate Matter:
• Dust, Pollen, Soot, Smoke: Respiratory problems,
allergies, heart disease

9. The Magnitude of the
Problem
• EPA Data: The Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) estimates that indoor air pollution levels can
be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels.
• WHO Data: The World Health Organization (WHO)
estimates that around 4.3 million people die
annually from exposure to indoor air pollution.

11. Controlling Indoor Air
Pollution: Source Control
• Reduce Chemical Exposure:
• Choose low-VOC paints, cleaners, and building
materials.
• Use non-toxic cleaning products.
• Ventilate well when using chemical products.
• Proper Maintenance:
• Regularly clean and maintain heating systems.
• Inspect and repair appliances to prevent gas leaks.

12. • Moisture Control:
• Fix leaks promptly.
• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Regular Cleaning:
• Vacuum frequently, especially carpets and
upholstered furniture.
• Clean surfaces with non-toxic cleaners.

13. Controlling Indoor Air
Pollution: Ventilation
• Natural Ventilation:
• Open windows and doors when
weather permits.
• Effective for reducing pollutant
concentrations, especially in mild
climates.
• Mechanical Ventilation:
• Removes pollutants from specific
sources (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms).
• Introduces fresh outdoor air into the
building.

14. • Air Purifiers:
• Remove particles and
some gases from the
air.
• Effectiveness depends
on the type of filter
and the specific
pollutants.
Controlling Indoor Air
Pollution: Air Purification

15. Additional Tips:
• Avoid smoking indoors.
• Use houseplants to help
purify the air.
• Monitor Indoor air quality

19. Conclusion
• Indoor air pollution is a serious health risk.
• Effective control strategies include ventilation,
source control, and air cleaning.
• By taking simple steps, we can significantly improve
indoor air quality and protect our health.

20. References
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2023).
Indoor air quality.
• World Health Organization. (2023). Household air
pollution and health. World Health Organization.

21. Thank
you!