About Careers Internship MedBlog Contact us
Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Advertisement

Homegrown Plants Reduce Toxic Ozone Levels Indoors

by Tanya Thomas on September 12, 2009 at 9:34 AM
 Homegrown Plants Reduce Toxic Ozone Levels Indoors

A recent study has noted that homegrown potted plants make indoor air healthier by cutting down ozone levels.

Ozone, the main component of air pollution, also known as smog, is a highly reactive, colorless gas formed when oxygen reacts with other chemicals.

Advertisement

Although ozone pollution is most often associated with outdoor air, the gas also infiltrates indoor environments through ordinary copy machines, laser printers, ultraviolet lights, and some electrostatic air purification systems, all of which contribute to increased indoor ozone levels.

Exposure to the toxic gas can lead to pulmonary edema, hemorrhage, inflammation, and reduction of lung function.

A research team from the Pennsylvania State University studied the effects of three houseplants such as snake plant, spider plant, and golden pothos, on indoor ozone levels.
Advertisement

To simulate an indoor environment, the researchers set up chambers in a greenhouse equipped with a charcoal filtration air supply system in which ozone concentrations could be measured and regulated.

Ozone was then injected into the chambers, and the chambers were checked every 5 to 6 minutes.

The findings revealed that ozone depletion rates were higher in the chambers that contained plants than in the control chambers without plants, but there were no differences in effectiveness among the three plants.

"Because indoor air pollution extensively affects developing countries, using plants as a mitigation method could serve as a cost-effective tool in the developing world where expensive pollution mitigation technology may not be economically feasible", said the authors.

The study is published in American Society of Horticultural Science's journal HortTechnology.

Source: ANI
TAN
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Latest Environmental Health

Can Kitchen Spices & Indoor Plants be Harmful?
Kitchen spices like nutmeg and poppy seeds, when ingested in excess, as well as indoor ornamental plants, cause negative health issues.
Groundbreaking Study Forecasts 2023 as Hottest Year on Record
As global warming accelerates, the need for immediate and ongoing action to mitigate climate change's catastrophic consequences becomes imperative.
How Forever Chemicals Lead to Delayed Puberty?
Forever chemicals or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure in children, may cause them to mature later during puberty.
Carbon Footprint of a Hospital Bed Calculated
To achieve more substantial reductions in emissions, hospital sustainability efforts must extend their focus beyond the surface.
Most Parents Report Children Facing Poor Air Quality
Most parents in Canada support moving school activities indoors to protect children from poor air quality.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
MediBotMediBot
Greetings! How can I assist you?MediBot
×

Homegrown Plants Reduce Toxic Ozone Levels Indoors Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests