The Times of India , Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Correspondent : Richa Pinto

Mumbai: A majority of Mumbaikars surveyed as part of a study on the quality of air in the city were of the belief that outdoor air pollution is more detrimental to health than indoor. The study showed that no less than 75% of the surveyed individuals perceived outdoor air quality as more harmful. Environmentalists say this perception probably stems from the traditional belief that pollution is an outdoor phenomenon. These days, though, the activists added, people are exposed to "tremendous amount" of indoor air pollution as well. A survey of 254 households in Mumbai was aimed at mapping awareness levels on indoor air pollution and assessing its causes. The findings revealed that 55% of the respondents agreed that indoor air is polluted. A total of 22% of the respondents had someone in their family fall sick due to indoor air pollution; six out of the 10 affected were children under five. The study also showed that not all respondents use effective methods to ensure good quality of air at home; 83% of the respondents said they thought using disinfectants is the best method followed by 81% who said regular cleaning and dusting is ideal. Four out of 10 respondents said air conditioners are the most effective method to combat pollution. The study was conducted by Eureka Forbes and Brandscapes. Environmentalists think otherwise. Tardeo's Dr Nilesh Baxi said, "Air conditioners are also a major cause. Most people are known to keep their AC switched on only for a certain number of hours in the night while sleeping after which they switch it off. However, around an hour after the AC has been switched off, oxygen in the room depletes. When the person wakes up in the morning, he is left feeling less energetic and could even get a headache," said Baxi. He added that construction work in buildings contributes to air pollution. "Construction activities are supposed to be covered with safety nets, which rarely happens. This causes dust to spread and enter homes," said Baxi. Lack of cross-ventilation in modern flats is to blame as well. Another environmentalist, Rishi Agarwal, said certain toxic glass or floor cleaners are also a cause. "Toxic smell can emanate from cleaners. Not many also know of the volatile organic compounds that are released from furniture and upholstery, which pollute the air. One ends up breathing in the stale air circulating in the house. In such cases, a good option is keeping indoor plants for improving the air quality," said Agarwal.

SOURCE : http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/Many-perceive-outdoor-air-pollution-as-more-harmful/articleshow/45115690.cms