Clean air for all: Improving air quality in India

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In recent years, the air quality has been declining. Did you know that the 2023 World Air Quality Report declared India the third-most polluted country in the world? This highlights the urgent need for us to take action and improve the air we breathe.

The health hazards of air pollution

Air pollution isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a silent threat that can significantly impact our health. The pollutants present in the air can lead to a range of health hazards like:

• Respiratory issues: Pollutants like particulate matter (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) can cause or aggravate respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Cardiovascular diseases: Long-term exposure to air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. Fine particles can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart and blood vessels.
• Cancer risk: Certain air pollutants, such as benzene and formaldehyde, are known carcinogens and can increase the risk of developing lung cancer and other types of cancer.
• Neurological effects: Air pollution has been associated with cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and other neurological disorders, especially in older adults and children.
• Reproductive and developmental issues: Pregnant women exposed to air pollution may experience complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays in children.
• Allergies and respiratory infections: High levels of pollutants can trigger allergies and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections like influenza and pneumonia.
• Mental health impact: There is growing evidence that air pollution may contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.

Unmasking indoor air pollution

While the detrimental effects of outdoor air pollution are well-documented, the dangers of indoor air pollution often go unnoticed. Many assume that being indoors protects them from harmful pollutants, but indoor air can be just as hazardous, if not more so than outdoor air.

This highlights the need to improve indoor air quality and create healthier living spaces.

Meet Miluz ZeTa range

Monitoring air quality can help ensure that your home remains a healthy and breathable environment. While there are various products on the market designed for this purpose, integrating this feature into switches and socket range, can be incredibly convenient.

Introducing Miluz ZeTa, our latest innovation in switches and sockets. These go beyond merely controlling lighting and electrical devices; they include air quality indicators that provide real-time information about your indoor air. This empowers you to create healthier living spaces effortlessly by staying informed about the air you and your loved ones are breathing, apart from other great advanced features.

Tips on improving air quality at home

Now that Miluz ZeTa gives you the air quality updates for your rooms in real time, what can you do to maintain good air quality in your home? Here are some effective tips to ensure you’re breathing the best air possible:

House plants: Incorporating house plants like spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies can naturally improve indoor air quality. These plants act as natural air purifiers, absorbing toxins and releasing fresh oxygen.

Air purifiers: Investing in a high-quality air purifier can make a significant difference in your home’s air quality. Look for models with HEPA filters, which are designed to capture small particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander, as well as harmful pollutants like smoke and mold spores.

Regular ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for reducing indoor pollutants. Open windows regularly to allow fresh air to circulate and use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove contaminants generated from cooking and moisture.

Avoid synthetic fragrances: Many air fresheners, candles, and cleaning products contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can degrade air quality. Opt for natural alternatives like essential oils or fragrance-free products to reduce exposure to harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Control humidity levels: High humidity can lead to mold growth, which negatively impacts air quality. To keep humidity levels in check, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, fix leaks promptly, and ensure good ventilation in moisture-prone areas.

Regular cleaning: Dust and vacuum your home regularly to reduce allergens and dust mites. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to ensure that dust and allergens are effectively captured and not recirculated into the air.

Radon testing: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground. Test your home for radon levels and, if necessary, install a mitigation system to reduce radon concentrations.

Innovating for comfort and well-being

At Schneider Electric, we aim to create innovations that make life easier and healthier. We believe that your home should be a place of relaxation and well-being.

That’s why we’re dedicated to designing smart solutions like Miluz ZeTa. To learn more about our solutions, visit our website.