Indoor air pollution is an escalating public health concern in India, particularly in densely populated urban centers where individuals spend between 70–90% of their time indoors. Despite its growing significance, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) remains a largely overlooked issue in both public discourse and policy frameworks, which continue to prioritize outdoor air pollution.

Definition:
Indoor Air Quality refers to the condition of the air inside and around buildings, influencing the health, comfort, and well-being of occupants.

Key Indoor Pollutants:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless, and toxic gas, typically emitted from incomplete combustion of fuels.

• Formaldehyde: A known carcinogen present in plywood, adhesives, paints, and furniture finishes.

• Asbestos: Common in older buildings for fireproofing and insulation; inhalation can cause severe respiratory illnesses.

• Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that infiltrates homes from the ground, especially in poorly ventilated areas.

• Lead: Found in outdated paints, pipes, and glazed ceramics, posing severe neurological risks.

• Mould: A fungus that thrives in damp, humid environments, triggering allergies and respiratory issues.

• Pesticides: Frequently used indoors for pest control, contributing to chemical exposure and potential long-term health risks.

• Tobacco and Cookstove Smoke: Emit harmful toxins that degrade indoor air quality.

• Allergens: Including dust mites, pet dander, and pollen that accumulate in soft furnishings and carpets.

Why Is Indoor Air Quality Declining in India?

• Infiltration of Outdoor Pollutants: Fine particles such as PM2.5 penetrate through gaps in windows, doors, and poorly insulated walls.

• Indoor Sources: Activities like cooking, smoking, burning incense, and using harsh cleaning chemicals release airborne toxins.

• Overcrowding: Urban housing congestion reduces air circulation, concentrating pollutants in compact spaces.

• Lack of Awareness & Regulation: Public ignorance and weak enforcement of IAQ standards perpetuate harmful building practices and unchecked exposure to toxins.

Health Impacts of Indoor Air Pollution

• According to Dyson’s Global Air Quality Report, India had the highest average indoor PM2.5 levels (55.18 μg/m³), followed by China, Turkey, UAE, and South Korea.

• The World Health Organization (WHO) attributes 3.2 million premature deaths annually to indoor air pollution, primarily from exposure to solid fuels and kerosene.

• Poor ventilation can result in carbon dioxide accumulation, leading to “Sick Building Syndrome” characterized by headaches, fatigue, and respiratory distress.

• Prolonged exposure contributes to noncommunicable diseases such as stroke, heart disease, COPD, and lung cancer.

• Women and children, who typically spend more time indoors, bear the brunt of the health burden.

Solutions to Combat Indoor Air Pollution

• Air Purifiers: Use devices with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters to effectively trap fine particles and allergens.

• Indoor Plants: Species like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants can naturally absorb pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene.

• Switch to Clean Fuels: Adopt cleaner energy sources for cooking and heating, including LPG, natural gas, biogas, electricity, and solar power.

• Low-VOC Products: Choose low- or zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) options in paints, sealants, and furnishings to reduce chemical emissions.

• Healthy Building Guidelines: Promote construction practices aligned with Eco-Niwas Samhita (ENS) and standards set by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) to ensure healthier indoor environments.