When we talk about indoor air quality (IAQ) we often don't know that in indoor spaces the air can be up to 5 times more polluted compared to the outside one.
Considering that we spend more than 90% of our time in closed spacesthe quality of the air we breathe becomes an important element for the quality of our life.
The atmospheric pollution is currently one of the World's main causes of death, contributing to illnesses such as ictus, lung cancer and chronic respiratory conditions. Currently, the 92% of the population is exposed to pollution levels that go beyond the limits indicated by the WHO..
As we worry about removing the visible dirt, washing the flooring, furniture and dishes, it's equally important to pay attention to the "invisible" one of the air we breathe.
Let's clarify. What are the main pollutants of the indoor air?
- CO2, Carbon Dioxidea substance naturally present in nature, but that, due to human activity reached dangerous concentrations for the man and the planet.
- VOC, organic volatile compoundsthe main indoor pollution agents. Between these formaldehyde, acetone, toluene and benzene.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO), an extremely dangerous compound because it is lethal and difficult to detect without using special instruments
- Particulate Matter PMx,the well-known "fine dust particles," are solid substances so small that they can be inhaled, settling inside our respiratory system, such as in the bronchi
- Radona radioactive gas that can accumulate in enclosed spaces, especially if there are cracks in the foundations.
- Tobacco smoke
- Humidity and mold
Luckily, just a few simple precautions in everyday life can improve the air quality in our homes and allow us to experience its health benefits.
Lack of an air purification device
Many people make the mistake of not investing in indoor air quality.
This issue is particularly relevant for those living in urban areas such as Milan, Bergamo, Brescia, or Rome.
Since we spend most of our time indoors, it becomes necessary to have an effective air purification system. purificazione dell’aria.
Currently, many air purifiers are available on the market. These devices filter the air we breathe, removing allergens and pollutants emitted by human activities, such as CO2, PM, and VOCs.
The most common types include:
- HEPA Filters (High Efficiency Particulate Air)capable of retaining up to 99.97% of particles smaller than 0.3 microns. However, they do not filter gases and require costly regular maintenance.
- Electrostatic precipitators (ESP)use electrical discharges to capture fine particles but consume a significant amount of energy, making them less suitable for home use.
- Activated carbon filterseffective in trapping VOCs and odors, though their production process requires high energy consumption.
- UV light:UV light: capable of eliminating airborne microbes and pathogens, but ineffective against PM or gases.
- PAN filters:use special polymers to trap PM2.5, enhancing the effects of natural ventilation.
- Photocathalitic filters:use light to chemically decompose both organic and inorganic pollutants, releasing water and CO2.
As attention to sustainability increases, more environmentally friendly solutions are emerging, such as natural biofilters that use materials like soy proteins or silk nanofibrils to trap pollutants. One of the most innovative solutions is the breathable green wall. These are vertical plant surfaces that remove pollutants by relying on biofilters, which can vary in type:
- the activated carbon and expanded clay filter: moderately effective at purification, but not very sustainable, as it requires a considerable amount of energy.
- the cocco fiber filter: far more effective at purification and more sustainable, given the use of waste materials.
- The Aura Mix biofilter is used by the only company producing breathable green walls in Italy, Aura System. It is a specially designed and patented growing medium composed of reused coconut fiber and clay, allowing it to achieve the highest air-purification performance currently available on the market. As demonstrated by studies conducted in collaboration with the University of Milan and Eni Salute, reductions in PM, VOCs, and CO₂ can even exceed 90%.
Investing in an effective and long-lasting air purification device can make a real difference, by removing most indoor pollutants and limiting the individual effort required to just a few simple actions.
2. Inadequate ventilation
This is very common, especially in winter, when we try to preserve indoor heat and therefore do not ventilate spaces sufficiently. Unfortunately, this is a serious mistake, as it encourages the buildup of harmful pollutants in the air we breathe.
In the long term, exposure to these harmful substances can lead to serioushealth problems.Among the issues associated with poor air quality are respiratory problems, eye irritation, headaches, and other symptoms related to Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).
Today, there are two main solutions for ventilating buildings:natural ventilation and mechanical ventilation. The first is simple—regularly opening windows to allow “fresh” outdoor air to dilute polluted indoor air. Unfortunately, in some spaces, especially modern ones where windows are absent or cannot be opened, this method is not feasible. In such cases, a second solution, known as mechanical ventilation, is used, in which fans force air exchange evenly throughout all rooms. While effective, this solution can compromise the energy efficiency of buildings.
3. Use of materials and furnishings that release chemical substances
Extra attention should be paid when shopping, especially for home furnishings. New furniture, carpets, and building materials can release VOCs —including the highly dangerous formaldehyde—thereby creating an unhealthy indoor environment.
When choosing furnishings, we should pay close attention to materials, which should be eco-certified and of high quality.
4. Lack of attention to allergens, humidity, and mold
Regular home cleaning is a form of self-care. Not only for psychological reasons—since a clean and tidy home improves productivity and mood —but also to limit the buildup of mold, dust and other allergens, that can cause even serious respiratory problems.
Mold, in particular, releases spores that, when inhaled, can cause illnesses and infections.
In addition, air filters, ducts, and upholstery fabrics can trap pet hair or dust mites, further worsening allergy symptoms.
So, what should be done? Maintaining humidity levels between 40% and 60% by using dehumidifiers or proper ventilation systems is essential. In addition, carrying out regular cleaning of sofas, curtains, and appliance filters can significantly help limit the onset of these problems.
5. Use of artificial and non-artificial air fresheners
Air fresheners, candles, and incense can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that linger in the air and may be inhaled, potentially leading to serious consequences for the respiratory system and overall health.
If possible, it is advisable to limit the use of these types of fragrances at home; otherwise, an excellent natural alternative is essential oils.
A single, convenient, and simple solution to all these problems
The walls of Aura System are a special type of green wall that uses carefully selected plant species and a unique natural substrate as a filter—or, more precisely, biofilter—to purify the air. This system enhances and accelerates the effectiveness of phytoremediation, a natural process that normally occurs in nature at the level of plant roots. In fact, built-in fans force air through this biofilter, where the patented and research-based Aura Mix substrate captures pollutants and releases purified air back into indoor spaces.
As for the pollutants that are captured, most of them are broken down by the plant roots, which use these substances as nutrients. The remaining portion is diluted in water during the wall’s automatic irrigation process.
In a world where most of our daily lives take place indoors, we cannot ignore pollutants and substances that, over time, can have serious impacts on our health. The air we breathe—even if we may not notice it in everyday life—plays a significant role in our overall well-being. Every breath can make a difference and choosing to purify the air in the spaces we live in is not only an act of self-care, but also a step toward a more sustainable future.
There is still much more to say about Aura and how it can help improve air quality!
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Sources
Roy, A., Mishra, C., Jain, S., Solanki, N. (2023). A Review of General and Modern Methods of Air Purification.
Godish, T., Spengler, J. D. (1996). Relationships Between Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality: A Review.
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