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See why Dr. Stanely, a tireless advocate for systemic healthcare, invested in high performance air filtration for his world-renowned dental clinic.

","content","Dr. Miguel Stanley is the founder and clinical director of the White Clinic in Lisbon, Portugal (1). His patients travel to him from around the world; among his clients are famous athletes and celebrities. “I'm an old school dentist doing advanced integrative dentistry,” he said. “One of the fastest growing trends in dentistry is connecting the mouth to the rest of the body.” – Dr. Miguel Stanley When he’s not doing clinical work, Dr. Stanley advocates and educates both colleagues and the public on the crucial role oral health plays in our overall health, and has lectured in over 50 countries (2). As the co-founder the Slow Dentistry Global Network, Dr. Stanley is dedicated to bettering the safety and experience of patients around the globe. And as an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dentistry, he’s noted hundreds of keynote lectures given over the course of 25 years. Around 2018, Dr. Stanley decided to transition his private practice towards integrative healthcare. “One of the fastest growing trends in dentistry is connecting the mouth to the rest of the body.” In line with this trend of comprehensive health care, Dr. Stanley incorporated many advanced technologies including IQAir’s advanced air filtration systems to enhance the overall wellness environment within his clinic. State-of-the-Art equipment for enhanced patient care The White Clinic boasts a wide array of equipment, ranging from hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), and cryotherapy and hydrogen inhalation for wound-healing and pain relief. Yet there was one technology Dr. Stanley wanted to invest in to improve not only the well-being of his patients but also himself and his staff at the clinic. Dr. Stanley's commitment to advanced dental care extends beyond cosmetic enhancements; he sees oral health as a window to overall wellness. This perspective is why he eventually incorporated IQAir’s air filtration technologies—because clean air in the clinic does more than protect against immediate contaminants; it’s integral to holistic health outcomes. IQAir: An essential addition As the global COVID-19 pandemic sparked shutdowns and quarantines, Dr. Stanley’s clinic was the first dental clinic in Portugal to close its doors for safety. He understood that he’d need a practical solution for keeping his patients and staff safe. IQAir’s reputation for excellence stood out to him. “I trust Swiss tech a lot. I've always invested in quality, and I hold the belief that if it's something that is important to you, you have to buy the best.” Dr. Stanley purchased four IQAir CleanZone systems for his clinic. Armed with IQAir’s patented HyperHEPA filtration technology (far superior to standard HEPA filters and proven to trap more than 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—a level of filtration crucial in dental clinics), the White Clinic would be well-protected from bacteria and viruses like SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. “IQAir filtration became an essential part of our medical armamentarium.” “IQAir filtration became an essential part of our medical armamentarium throughout dental procedures and improved the air quality for everyone in the room. We use it for our laser surgery to filler aerosols as well as mercury amalgam removal under the SMART protocol,” Dr. Stanley said. Seeing the clean air difference In his medical advocacy, Dr. Stanley notes that it’s essential for dentists to always place safety first in their practices. This is foundational for Slow Dentistry. Doctors, surgeons, and dentists all generate aerosols in their practice. From chemical disinfectants to higher-than-average levels of inorganic mercury (Hg), there is demonstrable increased risk of poor health impacts from aerosolized pollutants. Extra oral suction and negative pressure equipment, which Dr. Stanley invested in during dental treatments, is a central component to safe, effective dentistry. But beyond his immediate practice needs, he wanted to elevate the air quality in his practice to the highest possible standard. Dr. Stanley runs his IQAir systems at the highest possible setting. And in his practice, he can actually see the systems working to keep him and his team safe. Aerosols that could impact his safety are visible. “I use and Er-Yag laser for surgery and because I also use Zeiss microscope magnification with LED light, I can see this cloud of aerosols magnified. I can really see it's being sucked into the IQAir tube. I can actually see it, so I'm not feeling it. That is worth gold to me.” Safe, effective air cleaning technology, Dr. Stanley feels, is essential for a wide variety of medical settings. “Adopting IQAir’s filtration technology has been a game-changer, ensuring that our practice not only meets but exceeds health and safety standards. This technology is pivotal and should become a standard in dental practices worldwide for its undeniable benefits in protecting both patients and staff.” “This technology is pivotal and should become a standard in dental practices worldwide for its undeniable benefits in protecting both patients and staff.” The future of dentistry Dr. Stanley’s advocacy and grounding in systemic healthcare, connecting all aspects of the body to better health outcomes and great longevity, is a fundamental aspect of his practice. \"I envision a future where everyone understands the true foundations of longevity—embracing simple, vital practices like healthy eating, sound sleep, and avoiding harmful habits.” Dr Stanley has also recently developed MissingLink, an AI platform that can scan dental X-rays and looking for hidden pathologies that patients can also use. As Dr. Stanley said, “Its a simple tool that connects doctors to dentists.” Conclusion By investing in IQAir’s advanced air purification systems, Dr. Stanley extends his holistic health philosophy into every aspect of his practice, thus safeguarding both patients and staff against airborne pollutants. He would love to see more patients take an active role in their own healthcare, and to better understand how systemic healthcare care improve longevity and healthful living. Part of that solution requires access to clean, healthy air. He encourages other dentists to investigate high performance air filtration for their practices as well. And he was satisfied with his own investment in IQAir filtration. “They're very robust, very trustworthy, and the price and quality are amazing.”","contentHtml","

Dr. Miguel Stanley is the founder and clinical director of the White Clinic in Lisbon, Portugal (1). His patients travel to him from around the world; among his clients are famous athletes and celebrities. “I'm an old school dentist doing advanced integrative dentistry,” he said.

“One of the fastest growing trends in dentistry is connecting the mouth to the rest of the body.” – Dr. Miguel Stanley

When he’s not doing clinical work, Dr. Stanley advocates and educates both colleagues and the public on the crucial role oral health plays in our overall health, and has lectured in over 50 countries (2). As the co-founder the Slow Dentistry Global Network, Dr. Stanley is dedicated to bettering the safety and experience of patients around the globe. And as an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dentistry, he’s noted hundreds of keynote lectures given over the course of 25 years.

Around 2018, Dr. Stanley decided to transition his private practice towards integrative healthcare. “One of the fastest growing trends in dentistry is connecting the mouth to the rest of the body.” In line with this trend of comprehensive health care, Dr. Stanley incorporated many advanced technologies including IQAir’s advanced air filtration systems to enhance the overall wellness environment within his clinic.

State-of-the-Art equipment for enhanced patient care

The White Clinic boasts a wide array of equipment, ranging from hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), and cryotherapy and hydrogen inhalation for wound-healing and pain relief. Yet there was one technology Dr. Stanley wanted to invest in to improve not only the well-being of his patients but also himself and his staff at the clinic.

Dr. Stanley's commitment to advanced dental care extends beyond cosmetic enhancements; he sees oral health as a window to overall wellness. This perspective is why he eventually incorporated IQAir’s air filtration technologies—because clean air in the clinic does more than protect against immediate contaminants; it’s integral to holistic health outcomes.

IQAir: An essential addition

As the global COVID-19 pandemic sparked shutdowns and quarantines, Dr. Stanley’s clinic was the first dental clinic in Portugal to close its doors for safety. He understood that he’d need a practical solution for keeping his patients and staff safe.

IQAir’s reputation for excellence stood out to him. “I trust Swiss tech a lot. I've always invested in quality, and I hold the belief that if it's something that is important to you, you have to buy the best.”

Dr. Stanley purchased four IQAir CleanZone systems for his clinic. Armed with IQAir’s patented HyperHEPA filtration technology (far superior to standard HEPA filters and proven to trap more than 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—a level of filtration crucial in dental clinics), the White Clinic would be well-protected from bacteria and viruses like SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

“IQAir filtration became an essential part of our medical armamentarium.”

“IQAir filtration became an essential part of our medical armamentarium throughout dental procedures and improved the air quality for everyone in the room. We use it for our laser surgery to filler aerosols as well as mercury amalgam removal under the SMART protocol,” Dr. Stanley said.

Seeing the clean air difference

In his medical advocacy, Dr. Stanley notes that it’s essential for dentists to always place safety first in their practices. This is foundational for Slow Dentistry.

Doctors, surgeons, and dentists all generate aerosols in their practice. From chemical disinfectants to higher-than-average levels of inorganic mercury (Hg), there is demonstrable increased risk of poor health impacts from aerosolized pollutants.

Extra oral suction and negative pressure equipment, which Dr. Stanley invested in during dental treatments, is a central component to safe, effective dentistry. But beyond his immediate practice needs, he wanted to elevate the air quality in his practice to the highest possible standard.

Dr. Stanley runs his IQAir systems at the highest possible setting. And in his practice, he can actually see the systems working to keep him and his team safe.

Aerosols that could impact his safety are visible. “I use and Er-Yag laser for surgery and because I also use Zeiss microscope magnification with LED light, I can see this cloud of aerosols magnified. I can really see it's being sucked into the IQAir tube. I can actually see it, so I'm not feeling it. That is worth gold to me.”

Safe, effective air cleaning technology, Dr. Stanley feels, is essential for a wide variety of medical settings. “Adopting IQAir’s filtration technology has been a game-changer, ensuring that our practice not only meets but exceeds health and safety standards. This technology is pivotal and should become a standard in dental practices worldwide for its undeniable benefits in protecting both patients and staff.”

“This technology is pivotal and should become a standard in dental practices worldwide for its undeniable benefits in protecting both patients and staff.”

The future of dentistry

Dr. Stanley’s advocacy and grounding in systemic healthcare, connecting all aspects of the body to better health outcomes and great longevity, is a fundamental aspect of his practice. \"I envision a future where everyone understands the true foundations of longevity—embracing simple, vital practices like healthy eating, sound sleep, and avoiding harmful habits.”

Dr Stanley has also recently developed MissingLink, an AI platform that can scan dental X-rays and looking for hidden pathologies that patients can also use. As Dr. Stanley said, “Its a simple tool that connects doctors to dentists.”

Conclusion

By investing in IQAir’s advanced air purification systems, Dr. Stanley extends his holistic health philosophy into every aspect of his practice, thus safeguarding both patients and staff against airborne pollutants.

He would love to see more patients take an active role in their own healthcare, and to better understand how systemic healthcare care improve longevity and healthful living. Part of that solution requires access to clean, healthy air.

He encourages other dentists to investigate high performance air filtration for their practices as well. And he was satisfied with his own investment in IQAir filtration.

“They're very robust, very trustworthy, and the price and quality are amazing.”

","dr-miguel-stanley-chooses-iqair-cutting-edge-dental-practice","gid://shopify/Article/607939592491","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/dr-miguel-stanley-chooses-iqair-cutting-edge-dental-practice","trackingParameters","publishedAt","2024-08-05T21:00:00Z",[1152,653,838],"Dental","Meet Dr. Miguel Stanley: Cutting-edge dental surgeon","image",{"_10":1156,"_243":1157,"_246":1158,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/407214948726","Dentists performing treatment ","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_MiguelStanley_Desk_5d38eb7c-a290-4f05-a407-c10709d5cc16.jpg?v=1754907415",2880,1500,{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1162,"_1120":1163,"_1136":1164,"_1138":1164,"_1140":1165,"_1142":1166,"_985":1167,"_10":1168,"_1146":1169,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1170,"_577":1171,"_541":1172,"_1154":1173},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Discover how Miami’s Garcia Orthodontics transformed their practice with IQAir amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.","In 2012, Dr. Francisco Garcia took the helm of a well-established orthodontics practice, and he was confident of its success. Garcia Orthodontics had been serving the Kendall and greater Miami metropolitan area for over forty years, earning a stellar reputation and a loyal customer base. Under Dr. Garcia's stewardship, the practice grew, and a new 5,000 square-foot office was planned. During the design process, Dr. Garcia sought to create a modern, clean, and visually appealing new office, with the health and safety of staff and patients as top priorities. Of course, clean air was one of the chief concerns. Clean Air Facility Learn how to provide the safest, cleanest air possible in your facility. CLICK HERE Garcia Orthodontics Turns to IQAir \"Maintaining clean air was non-negotiable. It is part of our promise to deliver the very best for our patients and staff,\" Dr. Garcia said. In his search for the best solution to mitigate particulate matter, viruses, bacteria, and chemicals, Dr. Garcia discovered IQAir's top-rated air purifiers. In collaboration with IQAir’s team of experts, and recognizing the comprehensive protection that these systems could provide to his busy dental practice, Dr. Garcia installed five IQAir Dental Hg FlexVac air purification systems. Combined with intra oral suction, these IQAir extra oral suction air purifiers were placed right at the patient source—reducing the aerosol levels, bacterial colonies, and airborne viral particles from dental procedures to nearly zero. Strategically located, the IQAir systems continuously circulate and purify the air across the entire office space, ensuring maximum filtration and maintaining the highest standard of air quality. IQAir’s Systems Protected Against COVID-19 In early 2020, just as Dr. Garcia and his team were settling into the new space, the news of a respiratory disease outbreak in Wuhan, China broke out. Science has clearly shown how better air quality has a direct impact on health.- Dr. Garcia Throughout the pandemic and in its aftermath, IQAir’s Clean Air Facility team supported the clean air efforts in Garcia Orthodontics, protecting patients and staff from COVID-19, airborne pollutants, and the other air quality concerns common in dental practices. Secure a Healthier Dental Environment Discover the Power of IQAir's Dental Series Air Purifiers SHOP NOW “Science has clearly shown how better air quality has a direct impact on health,” Dr. Garcia remarked. The takeaway Dr. Garcia's story illustrates the powerful impact of air purification in general, and the specific effectiveness of IQAir's Dental Series of air purifiers for dental practices, ensuring the health and safety of both staff and patients in the face of airborne challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.","

In 2012, Dr. Francisco Garcia took the helm of a well-established orthodontics practice, and he was confident of its success. Garcia Orthodontics had been serving the Kendall and greater Miami metropolitan area for over forty years, earning a stellar reputation and a loyal customer base.

Under Dr. Garcia's stewardship, the practice grew, and a new 5,000 square-foot office was planned. During the design process, Dr. Garcia sought to create a modern, clean, and visually appealing new office, with the health and safety of staff and patients as top priorities. Of course, clean air was one of the chief concerns.

Clean Air Facility

Learn how to provide the safest, cleanest air possible in your facility.

CLICK HERE

Garcia Orthodontics Turns to IQAir

\"Maintaining clean air was non-negotiable. It is part of our promise to deliver the very best for our patients and staff,\" Dr. Garcia said. In his search for the best solution to mitigate particulate matter, viruses, bacteria, and chemicals, Dr. Garcia discovered IQAir's top-rated air purifiers.

In collaboration with IQAir’s team of experts, and recognizing the comprehensive protection that these systems could provide to his busy dental practice, Dr. Garcia installed five IQAir Dental Hg FlexVac air purification systems. Combined with intra oral suction, these IQAir extra oral suction air purifiers were placed right at the patient source—reducing the aerosol levels, bacterial colonies, and airborne viral particles from dental procedures to nearly zero.

Strategically located, the IQAir systems continuously circulate and purify the air across the entire office space, ensuring maximum filtration and maintaining the highest standard of air quality.

IQAir’s Systems Protected Against COVID-19

In early 2020, just as Dr. Garcia and his team were settling into the new space, the news of a respiratory disease outbreak in Wuhan, China broke out.

Science has clearly shown how better air quality has a direct impact on health.
- Dr. Garcia

Throughout the pandemic and in its aftermath, IQAir’s Clean Air Facility team supported the clean air efforts in Garcia Orthodontics, protecting patients and staff from COVID-19, airborne pollutants, and the other air quality concerns common in dental practices.

Secure a Healthier Dental Environment

Discover the Power of IQAir's Dental Series Air Purifiers

SHOP NOW

“Science has clearly shown how better air quality has a direct impact on health,” Dr. Garcia remarked.

The takeaway

Dr. Garcia's story illustrates the powerful impact of air purification in general, and the specific effectiveness of IQAir's Dental Series of air purifiers for dental practices, ensuring the health and safety of both staff and patients in the face of airborne challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

","garcia-orthodontics-iqair","gid://shopify/Article/606875746603","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/garcia-orthodontics-iqair","2023-07-20T18:33:28Z",[1152,838],"Miami’s Garcia Orthodontics Chooses IQAir for a Healthier Practice",{"_10":1174,"_243":1175,"_246":1176,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406582296950","Garcia Orthodontics","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_GarciaOrtho_Desk_B_b2afb4bf-d1b2-47e8-83c6-b144c3d85880.jpg?v=1752659022",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1178,"_1120":1179,"_1136":1180,"_1138":1180,"_1140":1181,"_1142":1182,"_985":1183,"_10":1184,"_1146":1185,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1186,"_577":1187,"_541":1188,"_1154":1189},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Learn more about our Dental Series for infection control, extraoral suction, and airborne aerosols.","Regular dental work is key to maintaining oral health. Tooth and gum conditions can be difficult to treat, so preventive cleanings and common procedures like fillings can help stop cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay early on. But dental practices can be subject to a variety of indoor air quality issues that can expose dentists, patients, and staff to biological contaminants and infectious pathogens. And infection risks have become even more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic, exposing dental workers and patients to even more critical risks beyond typical dental practice hazards. Download our eBook to explore research and current findings on the topic of airborne infections, biological contaminants, and mercury vapor exposure inside dental practices: A review of potential health effects of biological contaminants, airborne aerosols and micro-droplets carrying viral and bacterial material, and mercury vapor exposure The level of biological contaminants released during dental drilling and other procedures involving high-speed instruments, such as ultrasonic scaling Environmental exposure to airborne aerosols carrying viruses and bacteria among dental workers Current research on mercury vapor exposure and precautions to take even as amalgam fillings are removed Sensible solutions, including extraoral suction and infection control, you can put in place at your practice Fill out the form on this page to get instant access. Air quality in dental practices Why should you be concerned about the air quality in your dental practice? Dental practices and operatories experience specific air quality problems that can expose dentists, hygienists, and patients to infectious airborne pathogens, such as biological contaminants and viruses, as well as other unhealthy pollutants like chemicals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ultrafine particles produced from high-speed instruments.1 According to Dental Research Journal and the United States Department of Labor, dental work is one of the most hazardous occupations because of high risk of exposure to infections like COVID-19, toxic substances, and radiation for dentists, hygienists, and patients.2,3 Here are some of the possible air quality hazards that a dental worker or patient can face in a dental practice or operatory: viral infections from splattering liquid, droplets, or aerosols from high-speed drilling and cleaning instruments that can carry viral material for viruses like COVID-19, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis B biological contaminants, such as bacteria, that can be spread through airborne dental aerosols, improperly sterilized tools and surfaces, or from close, direct contact with a patient with an active bacterial infection, such as tuberculosis and syphilis allergies to substances in dental tools and equipment, such as latex in gloves, detergents used to clean equipment, and chemicals used to develop X-rays chemicals from disinfectants and cleaning supplies used to sterilize tools and the dental practice environment airborne mercury vapor from amalgam filling removal and disposal that can cause respiratory and neurological damage (less common in modern dental practices) Extra oral suction system and infection control Extra oral suction systems are an important first-line defense in ensuring that any dental aerosols carrying infected viral or bacterial matter are captured at the source – the patient’s mouth – when they result from high-speed instrumentation procedures that increase the concentration of airborne aerosols. High-speed dental instruments, such as those used for cavity drilling and ultrasonic scaling techniques during cleanings, often generate millions of microscopic dental aerosols and tiny micro-droplets that can contain highly infectious bacterial or viral pathogens from the patient’s mouth, including COVID-19.4,5 Once airborne, these aerosols and droplets can make contact with the clothes of patients, hygienists, staff, and dentists. These infected particles can stay on clothing for up to several days. This increases the risk that infectious pathogens are transferred from clothes into the respiratory system when, for example, a dental worker touches their face. Airborne aerosols can also remain in the air for hours before bacterial or viral material settles on surfaces. While they’re airborne, aerosols can also be inhaled by anyone in the dental practice and cause respiratory infections, such as COVID-19. As a result, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association has recommended that aerosol-producing procedures should be avoided whenever possible.6 Mercury Modern mercury (Hg) removal techniques and newer, non-mercury filling materials have reduced the exposure of many dental workers and patients to harmful mercury vapor toxins. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes the absolute permissible exposure limit (PEL) to mercury at 0.1 milligrams per cubic meter of air (mg/m³). The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends exposure to no more than 0.5 mg/m³ during a 10-hour workday.7,8 But studies suggest that many dentists and their staff still experience exposure to mercury beyond these safe levels. This is primarily because of the continued practice of removing amalgam fillings and, in some cases, placing new amalgam fillings. As a result, dentists and their staff have consistent, prolonged exposure to mercury that’s settled on surfaces throughout the dental practice from years of use as well as to mercury vapor that can be inhaled during mercury removal procedures that involve high-speed drilling. Prolonged exposure leads to demonstrably higher than average levels of inorganic mercury in the blood and urine of dentists and their staff. Over time, inhalation of mercury can increase the risk of harm to the digestive, nervous, and immune system as well as kidney and cognitive dysfunction. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to levels of airborne mercury vapor around 20 μg/m3 over a period of years can cause nervous system toxicity and kidney conditions, including kidney failure.9 Disinfectants Disinfectants are critical to keeping a dental practice clean, especially from infectious viruses like COVID-19 that can spread through contact with surfaces.10 Disinfectants are also important for sterilizing dental unit water lines (DUWL) used in cleanings, where bacteria can build up in thin layers called biofilms.11 But disinfectant chemicals, such as glutaraldehyde and peracetic acid, can produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that result in unpleasant odors. And over time, exposure to VOCs can result in chemical sensitivity that can produce severe symptoms in both staff and patients, including skin irritation (dermatitis) and asthma.12 This sensitivity can also reduce immune system function and increase dental worker risk for COVID-19 and other airborne infections in dental practices.13 Air purifier for dental practices IQAir Dental Series air purifiers for dental practices are rated as the best air purifiers for dental practices, designed for a wide range of air cleaning needs in dental practices, including extra oral suction systems, infection control, and customizable modules that can enable dentists to create negative pressure environments in the dental practice during procedures where aerosols, mercury, and other infectious material can become airborne. The modular design of Dental Series dental air purifiers makes them ideal for designing a dental operatory where no infected aerosols, droplets, or other harmful substances like mercury vapor can escape using the following components: Dental air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration, such as the HealthPro Plus, to capture up to 99.5% of all airborne particles down to 0.003 microns, including aerosols and particulate matter, as well as gas-phase filters for chemical and odors Extra oral suction system, such as the VM FlexVac suction arm kit, to capture aerosols and infectious material at the source with suction adjacent to the patient’s mouth for immediate capture Negative pressure equipment, such as the FlexVac extraoral suction extraction system, that can be combined with an extraoral suction system to immediately capture airborne pathogens and biological contaminants and remove them from the dental practice environment","

Regular dental work is key to maintaining oral health. Tooth and gum conditions can be difficult to treat, so preventive cleanings and common procedures like fillings can help stop cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay early on.

But dental practices can be subject to a variety of indoor air quality issues that can expose dentists, patients, and staff to biological contaminants and infectious pathogens.

And infection risks have become even more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic, exposing dental workers and patients to even more critical risks beyond typical dental practice hazards.

Download our eBook to explore research and current findings on the topic of airborne infections, biological contaminants, and mercury vapor exposure inside dental practices:

A review of potential health effects of biological contaminants, airborne aerosols and micro-droplets carrying viral and bacterial material, and mercury vapor exposure
The level of biological contaminants released during dental drilling and other procedures involving high-speed instruments, such as ultrasonic scaling
Environmental exposure to airborne aerosols carrying viruses and bacteria among dental workers
Current research on mercury vapor exposure and precautions to take even as amalgam fillings are removed
Sensible solutions, including extraoral suction and infection control, you can put in place at your practice

Fill out the form on this page to get instant access.

Air quality in dental practices

Why should you be concerned about the air quality in your dental practice?

Dental practices and operatories experience specific air quality problems that can expose dentists, hygienists, and patients to infectious airborne pathogens, such as biological contaminants and viruses, as well as other unhealthy pollutants like chemicals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ultrafine particles produced from high-speed instruments.¹

According to Dental Research Journal and the United States Department of Labor, dental work is one of the most hazardous occupations because of high risk of exposure to infections like COVID-19, toxic substances, and radiation for dentists, hygienists, and patients.^2,3

Here are some of the possible air quality hazards that a dental worker or patient can face in a dental practice or operatory:

viral infections from splattering liquid, droplets, or aerosols from high-speed drilling and cleaning instruments that can carry viral material for viruses like COVID-19, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis B
biological contaminants, such as bacteria, that can be spread through airborne dental aerosols, improperly sterilized tools and surfaces, or from close, direct contact with a patient with an active bacterial infection, such as tuberculosis and syphilis
allergies to substances in dental tools and equipment, such as latex in gloves, detergents used to clean equipment, and chemicals used to develop X-rays
chemicals from disinfectants and cleaning supplies used to sterilize tools and the dental practice environment
airborne mercury vapor from amalgam filling removal and disposal that can cause respiratory and neurological damage (less common in modern dental practices)

Extra oral suction system and infection control

Extra oral suction systems are an important first-line defense in ensuring that any dental aerosols carrying infected viral or bacterial matter are captured at the source – the patient’s mouth – when they result from high-speed instrumentation procedures that increase the concentration of airborne aerosols.

High-speed dental instruments, such as those used for cavity drilling and ultrasonic scaling techniques during cleanings, often generate millions of microscopic dental aerosols and tiny micro-droplets that can contain highly infectious bacterial or viral pathogens from the patient’s mouth, including COVID-19.^4,5

Once airborne, these aerosols and droplets can make contact with the clothes of patients, hygienists, staff, and dentists.

These infected particles can stay on clothing for up to several days. This increases the risk that infectious pathogens are transferred from clothes into the respiratory system when, for example, a dental worker touches their face.

Airborne aerosols can also remain in the air for hours before bacterial or viral material settles on surfaces.

While they’re airborne, aerosols can also be inhaled by anyone in the dental practice and cause respiratory infections, such as COVID-19. As a result, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association has recommended that aerosol-producing procedures should be avoided whenever possible.⁶

Mercury

Modern mercury (Hg) removal techniques and newer, non-mercury filling materials have reduced the exposure of many dental workers and patients to harmful mercury vapor toxins.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes the absolute permissible exposure limit (PEL) to mercury at 0.1 milligrams per cubic meter of air (mg/m³). The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends exposure to no more than 0.5 mg/m³ during a 10-hour workday.^7,8

But studies suggest that many dentists and their staff still experience exposure to mercury beyond these safe levels. This is primarily because of the continued practice of removing amalgam fillings and, in some cases, placing new amalgam fillings.

As a result, dentists and their staff have consistent, prolonged exposure to mercury that’s settled on surfaces throughout the dental practice from years of use as well as to mercury vapor that can be inhaled during mercury removal procedures that involve high-speed drilling.

Prolonged exposure leads to demonstrably higher than average levels of inorganic mercury in the blood and urine of dentists and their staff. Over time, inhalation of mercury can increase the risk of harm to the digestive, nervous, and immune system as well as kidney and cognitive dysfunction.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to levels of airborne mercury vapor around 20 μg/m³ over a period of years can cause nervous system toxicity and kidney conditions, including kidney failure.⁹

Disinfectants

Disinfectants are critical to keeping a dental practice clean, especially from infectious viruses like COVID-19 that can spread through contact with surfaces.¹⁰ Disinfectants are also important for sterilizing dental unit water lines (DUWL) used in cleanings, where bacteria can build up in thin layers called biofilms.¹¹

But disinfectant chemicals, such as glutaraldehyde and peracetic acid, can produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that result in unpleasant odors.

And over time, exposure to VOCs can result in chemical sensitivity that can produce severe symptoms in both staff and patients, including skin irritation (dermatitis) and asthma.¹²

This sensitivity can also reduce immune system function and increase dental worker risk for COVID-19 and other airborne infections in dental practices.¹³

Air purifier for dental practices

IQAir Dental Series air purifiers for dental practices are rated as the best air purifiers for dental practices, designed for a wide range of air cleaning needs in dental practices, including extra oral suction systems, infection control, and customizable modules that can enable dentists to create negative pressure environments in the dental practice during procedures where aerosols, mercury, and other infectious material can become airborne.

The modular design of Dental Series dental air purifiers makes them ideal for designing a dental operatory where no infected aerosols, droplets, or other harmful substances like mercury vapor can escape using the following components:

\nDental air purifier with HyperHEPA filtration, such as the HealthPro Plus, to capture up to 99.5% of all airborne particles down to 0.003 microns, including aerosols and particulate matter, as well as gas-phase filters for chemical and odors
\nExtra oral suction system, such as the VM FlexVac suction arm kit, to capture aerosols and infectious material at the source with suction adjacent to the patient’s mouth for immediate capture
\nNegative pressure equipment, such as the FlexVac extraoral suction extraction system, that can be combined with an extraoral suction system to immediately capture airborne pathogens and biological contaminants and remove them from the dental practice environment

","dental-practice-operatory-air-quality-guide","gid://shopify/Article/606888395051","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/dental-practice-operatory-air-quality-guide","2023-01-16T15:58:15Z",[853,390,1152],"Control airborne contaminants in your dental practice",{"_10":1190,"_243":1191,"_246":1192,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406365405558","Air Quality In Dental Practices And Operatories","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/DentalLP_Revamp_A_b77c30c5-7157-4fb1-976b-a8ce2fe3ce7d.jpg?v=1751888297",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1194,"_1120":1195,"_1136":1196,"_1138":1196,"_1140":1197,"_1142":1198,"_985":1199,"_10":1200,"_1146":1201,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1202,"_577":1203,"_541":1204,"_1154":-5},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"How air purification elevates Dr. Kelly Blodgett’s practice to the next level. Learn More.","For Dr. Kelly Blodgett, dentistry is a true calling. After undergraduate studies, his plan was to work towards a doctorate in psychology and counselling. Dr. Blodgett had already been accepted into a program to pursue that goal when in a moment of inspiration, he set his sights on becoming a dentist. Essential to that new calling was a fervent desire to help reverse the negative stereotype of dentistry. “Twenty-seven years after that epiphany, I am still striving to improve patients’ experiences and health outcomes,” Dr. Blodgett relates. His has been a successful endeavour, with patients of his well-established practice in Portland, Oregon benefiting from his dedication to the advancement of the standard of care that his practice offers patients. Dr. Blodgett's tireless pursuit of excellence led him to integrate IQAir air purifiers into his practice, a move that significantly enhanced patient experience. Read on to discover how this has become an indispensable part of his dental office. Clean Air FacilityLearn how to provide the safest, cleanest air possible in your facility. DOWNLOAD NOW ×Close Email No Thanks An innovator Dr. Blodgett became the first dentist in the State of Oregon to be board certified in Naturopathic Medical Dentistry and Integrative Biological Dental Medicine. And while he was becoming certified for SMART (safe mercury amalgam removal technique) by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), he heard about IQAir’s room air purifiers from some of the trade organization’s other members. Dr. Blodgett researched what IQAir could offer his practice to enhance it and help achieve his overarching goal. He was so impressed with the technology of the Dental Series Hg and its specialized mercury filtration that he purchased a system. Not just for mercury vapours In addition to facilitating safe mercury removal procedures, IQAir’s Dental Series Hg also improves environmental control in dentists’ offices by helping to protect against viruses (including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic), bacteria, disinfectants, and other airborne pollutants. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPA filtration in the Dental Series filters 95% of all particles down to 0.003 microns – the smallest particles that exist. “We use them for all procedures now. Patient's love the safety that they offer.” “I soon discovered that it is an awesome device for all aerosol collection, so I bought two more so that we would have one for each of our doctor rooms,” enthuses Dr. Blodgett. “We use them for all procedures now. Patient's love the safety that they offer.” An unexpected benefit Another way that the Dental Series Hg assisted his business came as a pleasant surprise: the curiosity patients expressed about the interesting-looking air purifier with its long receiving nozzle that draws in 300 cubic feet of air per minute. “It demonstrates how we invest in the best health for our patients and our practice.” “This offers us the opportunity to share about the technology, the improved air quality, and it demonstrates how we invest in the best health for our patients and our practice,” Dr. Blodgett relates. A big help in challenging times During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, dental offices in the state of Oregon could only deliver emergency treatments. On May 1, 2020, the state eased that restriction to give dentists the option to accept patients for any treatment. Some in the industry felt that it was still not safe to return to full operations. Dr. Blodgett wasn’t one of them, but he did understand the concerns of those that did worry. He told Portland television station KATU, “If their practice is not equipped to manage aerosols well right now, it would be wise to take another two weeks or four weeks so that they can be properly prepared to manage the airflow around the patients (1).” Numerous studies have shown how poor dental office air quality tends to be. According to Dr. Blodgett, numerous studies have shown how poor dental office air quality tends to be. He cites the dangers of working in an environment like that: “particularly considering the risks of long-term exposure to aerosols and mercury vapor.” He adds, “This is not only unacceptable but also completely avoidable.” Secure a Healthier Dental Environment Discover the Power of IQAir's Dental Series Air Purifiers SHOP NOW The takeaway “IQAir has been an integral part of both the patient experience and the safety we offer in our practice,” states Dr. Blodgett. His advice to other dentists considering high performance air filtration is to make that choice sooner than later. “Don't wait until a patient or, more likely, one of your team members gets sick from chronic exposure to mercury vapour and toxic aerosols. Make the investment for the sake of every person who walks into your office.” Dr. Blodgett concludes, “Frankly, in my opinion, the price point is so reasonable for the health benefits that IQAir provides, there is no reason why every dental operating room shouldn't have a unit like this. And the cost of maintenance is relatively low so there's no barrier to long-term enjoyment of the system.” “Your patients and your team will thank you. Not to mention that you will be differentiating your practice for the right reasons.”","

For Dr. Kelly Blodgett, dentistry is a true calling. After undergraduate studies, his plan was to work towards a doctorate in psychology and counselling. Dr. Blodgett had already been accepted into a program to pursue that goal when in a moment of inspiration, he set his sights on becoming a dentist.

Essential to that new calling was a fervent desire to help reverse the negative stereotype of dentistry.

“Twenty-seven years after that epiphany, I am still striving to improve patients’ experiences and health outcomes,” Dr. Blodgett relates.

His has been a successful endeavour, with patients of his well-established practice in Portland, Oregon benefiting from his dedication to the advancement of the standard of care that his practice offers patients.

Dr. Blodgett's tireless pursuit of excellence led him to integrate IQAir air purifiers into his practice, a move that significantly enhanced patient experience. Read on to discover how this has become an indispensable part of his dental office.

Clean Air Facility
Learn how to provide the safest, cleanest air possible in your facility.

DOWNLOAD NOW

\n\n

\n
\n

An innovator

Dr. Blodgett became the first dentist in the State of Oregon to be board certified in Naturopathic Medical Dentistry and Integrative Biological Dental Medicine.

And while he was becoming certified for SMART (safe mercury amalgam removal technique) by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), he heard about IQAir’s room air purifiers from some of the trade organization’s other members.

Dr. Blodgett researched what IQAir could offer his practice to enhance it and help achieve his overarching goal. He was so impressed with the technology of the Dental Series Hg and its specialized mercury filtration that he purchased a system.

Not just for mercury vapours

In addition to facilitating safe mercury removal procedures, IQAir’s Dental Series Hg also improves environmental control in dentists’ offices by helping to protect against viruses (including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic), bacteria, disinfectants, and other airborne pollutants.

IQAir’s patented HyperHEPA filtration in the Dental Series filters 95% of all particles down to 0.003 microns – the smallest particles that exist.

“We use them for all procedures now. Patient's love the safety that they offer.”

“I soon discovered that it is an awesome device for all aerosol collection, so I bought two more so that we would have one for each of our doctor rooms,” enthuses Dr. Blodgett. “We use them for all procedures now. Patient's love the safety that they offer.”

An unexpected benefit

Another way that the Dental Series Hg assisted his business came as a pleasant surprise: the curiosity patients expressed about the interesting-looking air purifier with its long receiving nozzle that draws in 300 cubic feet of air per minute.

“It demonstrates how we invest in the best health for our patients and our practice.”

“This offers us the opportunity to share about the technology, the improved air quality, and it demonstrates how we invest in the best health for our patients and our practice,” Dr. Blodgett relates.

A big help in challenging times

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, dental offices in the state of Oregon could only deliver emergency treatments. On May 1, 2020, the state eased that restriction to give dentists the option to accept patients for any treatment.

Some in the industry felt that it was still not safe to return to full operations. Dr. Blodgett wasn’t one of them, but he did understand the concerns of those that did worry.

He told Portland television station KATU, “If their practice is not equipped to manage aerosols well right now, it would be wise to take another two weeks or four weeks so that they can be properly prepared to manage the airflow around the patients (1).”

Numerous studies have shown how poor dental office air quality tends to be.

According to Dr. Blodgett, numerous studies have shown how poor dental office air quality tends to be. He cites the dangers of working in an environment like that: “particularly considering the risks of long-term exposure to aerosols and mercury vapor.”

He adds, “This is not only unacceptable but also completely avoidable.”

Secure a Healthier Dental Environment

Discover the Power of IQAir's Dental Series Air Purifiers

SHOP NOW

\n
\n

The takeaway

“IQAir has been an integral part of both the patient experience and the safety we offer in our practice,” states Dr. Blodgett.

His advice to other dentists considering high performance air filtration is to make that choice sooner than later.

“Don't wait until a patient or, more likely, one of your team members gets sick from chronic exposure to mercury vapour and toxic aerosols. Make the investment for the sake of every person who walks into your office.”

Dr. Blodgett concludes, “Frankly, in my opinion, the price point is so reasonable for the health benefits that IQAir provides, there is no reason why every dental operating room shouldn't have a unit like this. And the cost of maintenance is relatively low so there's no barrier to long-term enjoyment of the system.”

“Your patients and your team will thank you. Not to mention that you will be differentiating your practice for the right reasons.”

","drblodgett","gid://shopify/Article/606873190699","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/drblodgett","2022-05-25T19:56:04Z",[1152,653,838],"Dr. Kelly Blodgett Success Story",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1206,"_1120":1207,"_1136":1208,"_1138":1208,"_1140":1209,"_1142":1210,"_985":1211,"_10":1212,"_1146":1213,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1214,"_577":1215,"_541":1216,"_1154":1217},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Learn more about the symptoms of mercury toxicity and how to prevent mercury vapor released during dental procedures.","Dentistry’s history with mercury dates back nearly 150 years. Mercury is a versatile, affordable filling known for its strength and durability. It isn’t used just by itself, though. It’s part of what’s called an amalgam, which means it’s a combination of metals, including silver, tin, copper and even small amounts of zinc, indium or palladium. Mercury is also commonly used in dental amalgam. With it, dental fillings become more pliable and, when mixed with an alloy powder, mercury helps create a compound soft enough for dentists to press into a tooth for a cavity filling. Mercury amalgam hardens quickly, and durably withstands the rigors of biting and chewing. Dentists place more than 1 billion mercury fillings in patients’ mouths each year.Do amalgams release mercury vapor?For decades it was believed that once mercury amalgam was dried in a tooth, no mercury was released into a person’s mouth. But researchers have discovered that small amounts of mercury vapor are released during normal filling wear. With more sophisticated scientific tests now available, researchers now know that amalgam fillings generate up to 27 micrograms of mercury vapor per day. The amount of mercury vapor released during dental procedures could result in levels of exposure that exceed government safety standards.Are dental staff at risk for mercury toxicity?Those who regularly work with mercury fillings are required to take precaution. Daily mercury exposure can cause build up and produce symptoms of toxicity. Studies have also shown that some dental staff have elevated levels of mercury in their bodies. The reason is mercury vapor. Elemental mercury liquefies at room temperature and easily vaporizes. Also, drilling and removing amalgam generates fine particles and vapor, then is easily absorbed into the lungs and nasal tissues. Although there is risk for patients, it is small in comparison with dental office staff. For a guide to protecting yourself or dental staff from the serious health risks associated with drilling mercury amalgam, please visit: http://info.iqair.com/mercury-amalgam-guide.Symptoms of mercury toxicity include: Tremors Weakness Muscle atrophy Headaches Hair loss Autoimmune disease Allergies Fatigue How to prevent mercury vapor released during dental proceduresTo help prevent mercury toxicity during dental procedures, dentists are encouraged to use high-powered suction tools during the dental filling or removal process.There are two suction techniques to help reduce mercury vapor when drilling: Saliva ejector. A saliva ejector removes saliva from a patient’s mouth. High-volume suction device. This device helps keep the tooth dry. It also removes debris, such as mercury amalgam particles, as the dental drill dislodges them. High-suction dental tools, do not, however, control mercury vapor. How to remove mercury vapor from dentist’s officesBecause mercury can also be vaporous, dental offices are encouraged to take safety a step further by using an air purifying and filtration system. The IQAir Dental Series, for example, is designed to filter indoor air pollutants found in most dental offices. Dental pollutants include not only mercury vapor in the air, but also disinfectant smells, abrasion powder, drill aerosols, bacteria, viruses and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).A study conducted by the Institute of Hygiene at the University of Heidelberg concluded that IQAir air purifiers in dental offices effectively eliminate mercury vapors, formaldehyde, particulates, microorganisms and odors. The result is a cleaner, healthier dental office that’s safe for both patients and dental staff.","

Dentistry’s history with mercury dates back nearly 150 years. Mercury is a versatile, affordable filling known for its strength and durability. It isn’t used just by itself, though. It’s part of what’s called an amalgam, which means it’s a combination of metals, including silver, tin, copper and even small amounts of zinc, indium or palladium. Mercury is also commonly used in dental amalgam. With it, dental fillings become more pliable and, when mixed with an alloy powder, mercury helps create a compound soft enough for dentists to press into a tooth for a cavity filling. Mercury amalgam hardens quickly, and durably withstands the rigors of biting and chewing. Dentists place more than 1 billion mercury fillings in patients’ mouths each year.

Do amalgams release mercury vapor?

For decades it was believed that once mercury amalgam was dried in a tooth, no mercury was released into a person’s mouth. But researchers have discovered that small amounts of mercury vapor are released during normal filling wear. With more sophisticated scientific tests now available, researchers now know that amalgam fillings generate up to 27 micrograms of mercury vapor per day. The amount of mercury vapor released during dental procedures could result in levels of exposure that exceed government safety standards.

Are dental staff at risk for mercury toxicity?

Those who regularly work with mercury fillings are required to take precaution. Daily mercury exposure can cause build up and produce symptoms of toxicity. Studies have also shown that some dental staff have elevated levels of mercury in their bodies. The reason is mercury vapor. Elemental mercury liquefies at room temperature and easily vaporizes. Also, drilling and removing amalgam generates fine particles and vapor, then is easily absorbed into the lungs and nasal tissues. Although there is risk for patients, it is small in comparison with dental office staff. For a guide to protecting yourself or dental staff from the serious health risks associated with drilling mercury amalgam, please visit: http://info.iqair.com/mercury-amalgam-guide.

Symptoms of mercury toxicity include:

Tremors
Weakness
Muscle atrophy
Headaches
Hair loss
Autoimmune disease
Allergies
Fatigue

How to prevent mercury vapor released during dental procedures

To help prevent mercury toxicity during dental procedures, dentists are encouraged to use high-powered suction tools during the dental filling or removal process.

There are two suction techniques to help reduce mercury vapor when drilling:

\nSaliva ejector. A saliva ejector removes saliva from a patient’s mouth.
\nHigh-volume suction device. This device helps keep the tooth dry. It also removes debris, such as mercury amalgam particles, as the dental drill dislodges them. High-suction dental tools, do not, however, control mercury vapor.

How to remove mercury vapor from dentist’s offices

Because mercury can also be vaporous, dental offices are encouraged to take safety a step further by using an air purifying and filtration system. The IQAir Dental Series, for example, is designed to filter indoor air pollutants found in most dental offices. Dental pollutants include not only mercury vapor in the air, but also disinfectant smells, abrasion powder, drill aerosols, bacteria, viruses and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

A study conducted by the Institute of Hygiene at the University of Heidelberg concluded that IQAir air purifiers in dental offices effectively eliminate mercury vapors, formaldehyde, particulates, microorganisms and odors. The result is a cleaner, healthier dental office that’s safe for both patients and dental staff.

","is-mercury-vapor-released-during-dental-procedures","gid://shopify/Article/606882038059","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/is-mercury-vapor-released-during-dental-procedures","2016-11-01T23:33:02Z",[390,1152,653],"Is mercury vapor released during dental procedures?",{"_10":1218,"_243":1219,"_246":1220,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405597880694","Image of dental professional performing procedure on woman","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/dentalblog2-A_8d3b6747-db20-4faf-9b0f-74c8a05d9d16.jpg?v=1749207743",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1222,"_1120":1223,"_1136":1224,"_1138":1224,"_1140":1225,"_1142":1226,"_985":1227,"_10":1228,"_1146":1229,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1230,"_577":1231,"_541":1232,"_1154":1233},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Can dental silver crowns be hazardous? In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know before getting dental silver crowns.","Although amalgam dental fillings contain mercury, dental crowns do not. While fillings are used to fill cavities, a crown is used to entirely cover or \"cap\" a damaged tooth. Besides strengthening a damaged tooth, a crown can be used to improve its appearance, shape or alignment. Porcelain, acrylic or ceramic crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Other materials include gold and metal alloys. While stainless steel crowns may appear silver in color, they are actually composed of chromium, nickel and iron.Silver fillings contain mercuryDental crowns, therefore, are not considered potentially toxic, while dental amalgam fillings are. Amalgam containing mercury has been used in dentistry for about 150 years. That’s because amalgam, which is a combination of mercury, tin, copper, zinc,and palladium, is durable enough to withstand the rigors of biting and chewing. It’s also reasonably priced, making it affordable to most people who require dental work. It’s estimated that dentists place about 1 billion amalgam fillings per year.Usually, those fillings remain intact until there is a reason to remove or update them. When fillings are removed or worked on, dentists drill the tooth. By disturbing the filling, mercury vapors and fine particles are released from the amalgam and into the air. The mercury, which is toxic, then becomes a hazard that dental practices must take precautions against.Risks in the dental officeWhat you may not realize is that dental crowns, although they do not contain mercury, might still be hazardous. Often, crowns are placed right over the already-existing amalgam filling. It may give you the impression that because the filling is covered, the mercury is somehow sealed off. In reality, though, the mercury can seep from your filling to the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. From there it can spread to your body’s nerve tissue and bloodstream.Teeth require crowns because of damage or decay. After a root canal, dentists insert a small post into the tooth where the root was.About two thirds of the post’s length descends downward into the jaw. The top sticks out above the jaw and becomes an anchor for the crown. Amalgam isn’t just used to manufacture fillings. It’s also frequently used to manufacture the posts for crowns, which is another source of mercury.Some other risks besides mercury exposure include: bacteria from exfoliated skin, which can lead to infection1 chemical disinfectants, which can release VOCs into the air2 viruses, including HBV, HIV, and HCV, as well as respiratory viruses like Covid-193 Steps you can takeBecause dentists work so frequently with amalgam, they should take precautions against mercury toxicity in the office. Some dentists use high-powered suction devices to keep teeth dry and remove debris, such as amalgam particles, during procedures. Some also use specialized waste management systems help keep mercury out of the plumbing system.Dental practitioners can go even further to control infectious aerosols by installing a high-performance air purification system like the IQAir Dental Series with the FlexVac attachment. The FlexVac is an extraoral suction and infection control device that can control potential air quality issues at the source, filtering pollutants like: mercury vapors airborne pathogens drill aerosols bacteria viruses disinfectant smells abrasion powder volatile organic compounds (VOCs) These precautions bring dental office safety another step closer to making the industry healthier. As long as mercury continues to be in amalgam, the need for precautions will continue.","

Although amalgam dental fillings contain mercury, dental crowns do not. While fillings are used to fill cavities, a crown is used to entirely cover or \"cap\" a damaged tooth. Besides strengthening a damaged tooth, a crown can be used to improve its appearance, shape or alignment. Porcelain, acrylic or ceramic crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Other materials include gold and metal alloys. While stainless steel crowns may appear silver in color, they are actually composed of chromium, nickel and iron.

Silver fillings contain mercury

Dental crowns, therefore, are not considered potentially toxic, while dental amalgam fillings are. Amalgam containing mercury has been used in dentistry for about 150 years. That’s because amalgam, which is a combination of mercury, tin, copper, zinc,and palladium, is durable enough to withstand the rigors of biting and chewing. It’s also reasonably priced, making it affordable to most people who require dental work. It’s estimated that dentists place about 1 billion amalgam fillings per year.

Usually, those fillings remain intact until there is a reason to remove or update them. When fillings are removed or worked on, dentists drill the tooth. By disturbing the filling, mercury vapors and fine particles are released from the amalgam and into the air. The mercury, which is toxic, then becomes a hazard that dental practices must take precautions against.

Risks in the dental office

What you may not realize is that dental crowns, although they do not contain mercury, might still be hazardous. Often, crowns are placed right over the already-existing amalgam filling. It may give you the impression that because the filling is covered, the mercury is somehow sealed off. In reality, though, the mercury can seep from your filling to the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. From there it can spread to your body’s nerve tissue and bloodstream.

Teeth require crowns because of damage or decay. After a root canal, dentists insert a small post into the tooth where the root was.

About two thirds of the post’s length descends downward into the jaw. The top sticks out above the jaw and becomes an anchor for the crown. Amalgam isn’t just used to manufacture fillings. It’s also frequently used to manufacture the posts for crowns, which is another source of mercury.

Some other risks besides mercury exposure include:

bacteria from exfoliated skin, which can lead to infection¹\n
chemical disinfectants, which can release VOCs into the air²\n
viruses, including HBV, HIV, and HCV, as well as respiratory viruses like Covid-19³\n

Steps you can take

Because dentists work so frequently with amalgam, they should take precautions against mercury toxicity in the office. Some dentists use high-powered suction devices to keep teeth dry and remove debris, such as amalgam particles, during procedures. Some also use specialized waste management systems help keep mercury out of the plumbing system.

Dental practitioners can go even further to control infectious aerosols by installing a high-performance air purification system like the IQAir Dental Series with the FlexVac attachment. The FlexVac is an extraoral suction and infection control device that can control potential air quality issues at the source, filtering pollutants like:

mercury vapors
airborne pathogens
drill aerosols
bacteria
viruses
disinfectant smells
abrasion powder
volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
\n\n\t

These precautions bring dental office safety another step closer to making the industry healthier. As long as mercury continues to be in amalgam, the need for precautions will continue.

","do-silver-crowns-contain-mercury","gid://shopify/Article/606881972523","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/do-silver-crowns-contain-mercury","2016-11-01T23:27:09Z",[390,1152],"Do silver crowns contain mercury?",{"_10":1234,"_243":1235,"_246":1236,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405500199286","Image of dental professional and child in dental office","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/dental_blog1-A_f89618a2-9757-4ff4-9d08-331b42f540c6.jpg?v=1748943207",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1238,"_1120":1239,"_1136":1240,"_1138":1240,"_1140":1241,"_1142":1242,"_985":1243,"_10":1244,"_1146":1245,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1246,"_577":1247,"_541":1248,"_1154":1249},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"A recent act of apparent vandalism at a vacant home in El Mirage, Ariz., drew attention to the very real dangers of mercury pollution.","A recent act of apparent vandalism at a vacant home in El Mirage, Ariz., drew attention to the very real dangers of mercury pollution. A real estate agent and a potential homebuyer discovered nearly a pound of liquid mercury on the pavement outside the house during a viewing of the unoccupied house. They backed away from the toxic puddle and called 911. Mercury is highly toxic. Mercury vapors or organic mercury can cause personality changes, tremors, vision problems, deafness, and other symptoms. Very small amounts, such as just a few drops from a broken thermometer or other source, can raise air concentrations of mercury to hazardous levels. Because the droplets are difficult to detect on furniture, carpet, floors, walls, etc., mercury can threaten the health of building occupants for months or years. Mercury was often an ingredient in the paint in homes painted before 1991, when its use in house paints was banned. Mercury is also present in amalgam dental fillings, and dentists and their assistants are at risk of exposure to mercury in working with dental fillings.IQAir manufactures a series of stand-alone air purifiers (see picture at right) just for use in dentists’ offices. Mercury exposure due to thermometer breakages is a significant indoor air quality issue.1 In one case, three children suffered mercury poisoning after a single thermometer broke on the carpet in the children’s bedroom but was not cleaned up. One of the children, a 33-month-old girl, was admitted to the hospital for anorexia, eczema and other symptoms. TheU.S. Environmental Protection Agency is currently working on new standards for mercury released from coal- and oil-fired generating plants.2 The companies in charge of the cleanup at the El Mirage house yesterday reported that cleanup efforts are complete, pending soil sample analysis. Mercury in Dental Amalgams The threat of mercury exposure can also be a concern for many dental practitioners, as mercury can be present during amalgam fillings. To prevent both this and other pollutants like bacteria and infection, consider looking into a high-performance air purification system like the IQAir Dental Series, along with the FlexVac attachment. Studies have shown that the positioning of air cleaners in dental clinics are of major significance for controlling aerosol particle dispersion in dental clinics.3 The FlexVac is an extra oral suction and infection control device that can control potential air quality issues at the source. The extendable hose of the FlexVac ensures the best coverage for filtering pollutants from any angle. Mercury Pollution Both Indoors and Outdoors Mercury pollution is no joke. And the worst part is that mercury pollution is not limited to outdoor air - it can also affect indoor environments. While the puddles of mercury in El Mirage are of concern, exposure from them is out of the control of most individuals. You can, however, control the quality of air in your work or home environment. Taking precautions like investing in air filtration units are a big step in making sure you know what is in the air you’re breathing.","

A recent act of apparent vandalism at a vacant home in El Mirage, Ariz., drew attention to the very real dangers of mercury pollution.

A real estate agent and a potential homebuyer discovered nearly a pound of liquid mercury on the pavement outside the house during a viewing of the unoccupied house. They backed away from the toxic puddle and called 911.

Mercury is highly toxic. Mercury vapors or organic mercury can cause personality changes, tremors, vision problems, deafness, and other symptoms.

Very small amounts, such as just a few drops from a broken thermometer or other source, can raise air concentrations of mercury to hazardous levels. Because the droplets are difficult to detect on furniture, carpet, floors, walls, etc., mercury can threaten the health of building occupants for months or years.

Mercury was often an ingredient in the paint in homes painted before 1991, when its use in house paints was banned. Mercury is also present in amalgam dental fillings, and dentists and their assistants are at risk of exposure to mercury in working with dental fillings.IQAir manufactures a series of stand-alone air purifiers (see picture at right) just for use in dentists’ offices.

Mercury exposure due to thermometer breakages is a significant indoor air quality issue.¹ In one case, three children suffered mercury poisoning after a single thermometer broke on the carpet in the children’s bedroom but was not cleaned up. One of the children, a 33-month-old girl, was admitted to the hospital for anorexia, eczema and other symptoms.

TheU.S. Environmental Protection Agency is currently working on new standards for mercury released from coal- and oil-fired generating plants.²

The companies in charge of the cleanup at the El Mirage house yesterday reported that cleanup efforts are complete, pending soil sample analysis.

Mercury in Dental Amalgams

The threat of mercury exposure can also be a concern for many dental practitioners, as mercury can be present during amalgam fillings.

To prevent both this and other pollutants like bacteria and infection, consider looking into a high-performance air purification system like the IQAir Dental Series, along with the FlexVac attachment.

Studies have shown that the positioning of air cleaners in dental clinics are of major significance for controlling aerosol particle dispersion in dental clinics.³ The FlexVac is an extra oral suction and infection control device that can control potential air quality issues at the source. The extendable hose of the FlexVac ensures the best coverage for filtering pollutants from any angle.

Mercury Pollution Both Indoors and Outdoors

Mercury pollution is no joke. And the worst part is that mercury pollution is not limited to outdoor air - it can also affect indoor environments.

While the puddles of mercury in El Mirage are of concern, exposure from them is out of the control of most individuals. You can, however, control the quality of air in your work or home environment.

Taking precautions like investing in air filtration units are a big step in making sure you know what is in the air you’re breathing.

","arizona-mercury-puddle-raises-iaq-concerns","gid://shopify/Article/606879613227","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/arizona-mercury-puddle-raises-iaq-concerns","2016-09-19T17:20:48Z",[390,1152,653],"Arizona mercury puddle raises IAQ concerns",{"_10":1250,"_243":1251,"_246":1252,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406079963510","Mercury puddles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/151_mercury_banner_25acf588-370e-4ef8-85ae-62bd4374cd5d.jpg?v=1750841824","pageInfo",{"_1255":45,"_1256":45,"_1257":1258,"_1259":1260},"hasPreviousPage","hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2MDY4Nzk2MTMyMjcsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE0NzQzMDU2NDgwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6Nn0=","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjo2MDc5Mzk1OTI0OTEsImxhc3RfdmFsdWUiOjE3MjI4OTE2MDAwMDAsIm9mZnNldCI6MH0=","selectedTag",{"_541":1263,"_983":43,"_246":987,"_988":1264},"IQAir News - Dental",{"_990":991,"_992":1265,"_12":1263,"_983":43,"_246":987},"Blog","categorizedArticles",{"_1268":1269,"_1305":1306,"_1405":1406,"_1473":1474,"_1544":1545},"featured",[1270,1287],{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1271,"_1120":1272,"_1136":1273,"_1138":1274,"_1140":1275,"_1142":1276,"_985":1277,"_10":1278,"_1146":1279,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1280,"_577":1281,"_541":1283,"_1154":1284},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Learn how HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particles far smaller than the HEPA standard, and why that matters for indoor air quality.","

Learn how HyperHEPA filtration captures ultrafine particles far smaller than the HEPA standard, and why that matters for indoor air quality.

","Indoor air often contains a mix of pollutants that are easy to overlook—dust, pollen, smoke, and microscopic particles from traffic or combustion that can stay suspended in the air we breathe. For people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, reducing those particles indoors can make a noticeable difference in comfort and health. A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier designed to capture particles far smaller than the size standard commonly associated with HEPA filtration. In simple terms, it is built for environments where reducing ultrafine airborne particles is especially important. To understand why that matters, it helps to start with what standard HEPA filtration does well—and where higher-performance filtration can go further. What is HEPA filtration? HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores (1)(2). Originally developed during World War II to contain radioactive particles, HEPA technology has since become the industry standard for air purification. It works by forcing air through a dense mat of fibers, where particles are captured through a combination of interception, impaction, and diffusion. However, HEPA filters have limits. They struggle with ultrafine particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including some viruses and combustion particles. In real-world use, filtration performance also depends on the purifier’s design. If air can bypass the filter because of gaps or poor sealing, some polluted air may circulate without being filtered. In real-world use, those limitations can matter most when the air contains large amounts of ultrafine pollution—such as wildfire smoke, traffic-related combustion particles, or other high-particle events. In those situations, filter performance depends not just on the filter media itself, but also on how well the overall system is sealed. What is HyperHEPA filtration? A HyperHEPA air purifier is an air purifier built with filtration media designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than the 0.3-micron benchmark commonly associated with standard HEPA filtration. That matters because many of the particles people worry about most indoors are extremely small. Ultrafine particles from combustion, traffic pollution, smoke, and some airborne biological material can behave differently from larger dust or pollen particles, staying suspended longer and reaching deeper into the respiratory system. A HyperHEPA air purifier is not a different category of appliance from an air purifier—it is a higher-performance particle filtration approach within an air purifier. In practice, that means the purifier is designed not only around the filter media itself, but also around system sealing and airflow so that filtered air is less likely to bypass the filter. Why ultrafine particles matter Not all airborne particles behave the same way. Larger particles, like visible dust or some pollen, settle more quickly. Ultrafine particles are different: they are so small that they can stay airborne longer and move more easily through indoor spaces. That’s one reason wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related pollution can be so difficult to manage indoors. Even when the air looks clean, ultrafine particles may still be present. A higher-efficiency filtration system is designed to reduce more of those smaller particles from the air people actually breathe. How is HyperHEPA different from HEPA? When comparing HEPA and HyperHEPA filtration, the main differences come down to particle size performance and system design. Particle size range HEPA filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. This covers many common indoor particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores. HyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, extending protection deeper into the ultrafine range. Real-world filtration performance A filter’s effectiveness depends not only on the media, but also on how well the purifier is built. If air bypasses the filter because of gaps or leakage, overall performance drops. HyperHEPA systems are typically designed with tighter sealing so that more of the air moved through the unit is actually filtered rather than escaping around the filter. This difference matters most when indoor air contains a large amount of ultrafine pollution, such as smoke, traffic-related particles, or other combustion byproducts. How to think about air purifier claims Not every air-cleaning technology works in the same way. Some systems are designed to capture pollutants, while others claim to destroy, neutralize, or transform them. That distinction matters. Physical filtration removes particles from circulation by trapping them in filter media. Other technologies may rely on chemical reactions, ionization, or light-based processes, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the pollutant, the room, and how the system is used. When evaluating an air purifier, it helps to ask a few simple questions: What pollutants is it actually designed to address? A good purifier should clearly state whether it is built for particles, gases and odors, or both. Particle filters address things like dust, pollen, smoke, and ultrafine particles; gases and VOCs require sorbent media such as activated carbon. Does it physically remove particles from the air? This is one of the clearest signs of a strong air-cleaning approach. Filtration-based systems trap particles in filter media instead of trying to alter them in the air or push them onto nearby surfaces. Does it rely on added reactive chemistry or generate byproducts? If a purifier uses ozone, ionization, or other reactive processes, it’s worth asking what else may be created along the way. A stronger approach is one that removes pollutants without adding new ones to the room. Is its performance based on clear, testable standards? Look beyond broad marketing claims. CADR can help show how quickly a purifier reduces particles in a room under short-term test conditions, but it does not tell you how performance holds up over time. CCM is useful because it reflects how well a purifier continues performing as filters load with pollutants, giving a better picture of long-term effectiveness. A stronger air purifier claim is usually a simpler one: capture pollutants efficiently, move enough air, and maintain that performance over time. Conclusion A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier built to capture extremely small airborne particles—well beyond the particle-size range most people associate with standard HEPA. That makes it especially relevant in situations where ultrafine pollution matters, such as wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related indoor air concerns. The key idea is simple: don’t look only at whether a purifier says “HEPA.” Look at how small a particle it is designed to capture, how the system is sealed, and whether the overall design supports real-world performance over time.","

Indoor air often contains a mix of pollutants that are easy to overlook—dust, pollen, smoke, and microscopic particles from traffic or combustion that can stay suspended in the air we breathe. For people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, reducing those particles indoors can make a noticeable difference in comfort and health.

A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier designed to capture particles far smaller than the size standard commonly associated with HEPA filtration. In simple terms, it is built for environments where reducing ultrafine airborne particles is especially important.

To understand why that matters, it helps to start with what standard HEPA filtration does well—and where higher-performance filtration can go further.

What is HEPA filtration?

HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores (1)(2).

Originally developed during World War II to contain radioactive particles, HEPA technology has since become the industry standard for air purification. It works by forcing air through a dense mat of fibers, where particles are captured through a combination of interception, impaction, and diffusion.

However, HEPA filters have limits. They struggle with ultrafine particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including some viruses and combustion particles. In real-world use, filtration performance also depends on the purifier’s design. If air can bypass the filter because of gaps or poor sealing, some polluted air may circulate without being filtered.

In real-world use, those limitations can matter most when the air contains large amounts of ultrafine pollution—such as wildfire smoke, traffic-related combustion particles, or other high-particle events. In those situations, filter performance depends not just on the filter media itself, but also on how well the overall system is sealed.

What is HyperHEPA filtration?

A HyperHEPA air purifier is an air purifier built with filtration media designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than the 0.3-micron benchmark commonly associated with standard HEPA filtration.

That matters because many of the particles people worry about most indoors are extremely small. Ultrafine particles from combustion, traffic pollution, smoke, and some airborne biological material can behave differently from larger dust or pollen particles, staying suspended longer and reaching deeper into the respiratory system.

$\"\"$

A HyperHEPA air purifier is not a different category of appliance from an air purifier—it is a higher-performance particle filtration approach within an air purifier. In practice, that means the purifier is designed not only around the filter media itself, but also around system sealing and airflow so that filtered air is less likely to bypass the filter.

Why ultrafine particles matter

Not all airborne particles behave the same way. Larger particles, like visible dust or some pollen, settle more quickly. Ultrafine particles are different: they are so small that they can stay airborne longer and move more easily through indoor spaces.

That’s one reason wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related pollution can be so difficult to manage indoors. Even when the air looks clean, ultrafine particles may still be present. A higher-efficiency filtration system is designed to reduce more of those smaller particles from the air people actually breathe.

How is HyperHEPA different from HEPA?

When comparing HEPA and HyperHEPA filtration, the main differences come down to particle size performance and system design.

Particle size range

\nHEPA filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. This covers many common indoor particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores.
\nHyperHEPA filtration is designed to capture 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, extending protection deeper into the ultrafine range.

Real-world filtration performance

A filter’s effectiveness depends not only on the media, but also on how well the purifier is built. If air bypasses the filter because of gaps or leakage, overall performance drops.
HyperHEPA systems are typically designed with tighter sealing so that more of the air moved through the unit is actually filtered rather than escaping around the filter.

This difference matters most when indoor air contains a large amount of ultrafine pollution, such as smoke, traffic-related particles, or other combustion byproducts.

How to think about air purifier claims

Not every air-cleaning technology works in the same way. Some systems are designed to capture pollutants, while others claim to destroy, neutralize, or transform them.

That distinction matters. Physical filtration removes particles from circulation by trapping them in filter media. Other technologies may rely on chemical reactions, ionization, or light-based processes, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the pollutant, the room, and how the system is used.

When evaluating an air purifier, it helps to ask a few simple questions:

\nWhat pollutants is it actually designed to address? A good purifier should clearly state whether it is built for particles, gases and odors, or both. Particle filters address things like dust, pollen, smoke, and ultrafine particles; gases and VOCs require sorbent media such as activated carbon.
\nDoes it physically remove particles from the air? This is one of the clearest signs of a strong air-cleaning approach. Filtration-based systems trap particles in filter media instead of trying to alter them in the air or push them onto nearby surfaces.
\nDoes it rely on added reactive chemistry or generate byproducts? If a purifier uses ozone, ionization, or other reactive processes, it’s worth asking what else may be created along the way. A stronger approach is one that removes pollutants without adding new ones to the room.
\nIs its performance based on clear, testable standards? Look beyond broad marketing claims. CADR can help show how quickly a purifier reduces particles in a room under short-term test conditions, but it does not tell you how performance holds up over time. CCM is useful because it reflects how well a purifier continues performing as filters load with pollutants, giving a better picture of long-term effectiveness.

A stronger air purifier claim is usually a simpler one: capture pollutants efficiently, move enough air, and maintain that performance over time.

Conclusion

A HyperHEPA air purifier is a filtration-based air purifier built to capture extremely small airborne particles—well beyond the particle-size range most people associate with standard HEPA. That makes it especially relevant in situations where ultrafine pollution matters, such as wildfire smoke, traffic emissions, and other combustion-related indoor air concerns.

The key idea is simple: don’t look only at whether a purifier says “HEPA.” Look at how small a particle it is designed to capture, how the system is sealed, and whether the overall design supports real-world performance over time.

","what-is-a-hyperhepa-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/1000763818358","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/what-is-a-hyperhepa-air-purifier","2026-04-14T16:30:19Z",[853,390,1282,653],"Featured articles","What is a HyperHEPA air purifier?",{"_10":1285,"_243":-5,"_246":1286,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414442652022","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/B_080be3ce-0c50-4315-a1a1-2fd015040564.jpg?v=1776184950",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1288,"_1120":1289,"_1136":1290,"_1138":1291,"_1140":1292,"_1142":1293,"_985":1294,"_10":1295,"_1146":1296,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1297,"_577":1298,"_541":1299,"_1154":1300},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Airborne pollutants can cross continents and oceans, impacting lives far from their source; learn what we can do to control transboundary pollution.","

Airborne pollutants can cross continents and oceans, impacting lives far from their source; learn what we can do to control transboundary pollution.

","Air pollution is often discussed as a local problem. However, our climate system is singular and interconnects the entire planet. The atmosphere operates without political borders, as these are a human construct. Every year, desert dust, wildfire smoke, crop burning haze, and industrial emissions travel hundreds or even thousands of miles from where they began. A pollution event in one region can shape air quality, health risks, and public warnings far away. That makes air pollution more than a domestic policy issue. It is a shared public-health challenge—one that requires collective action—better monitoring, better coordination, and a clearer understanding that the air over one country rarely belongs to that country alone. Air pollution is one of the clearest examples of how environmental risks can move across political boundaries (1). The science, monitoring tools, and policy models to respond already exist—but acting on them requires coordination that matches how the atmosphere actually works. Why air pollution becomes everyone’s problem Wind patterns, seasonal weather systems, and jet streams can carry pollution across regions, continents, and oceans. That means the health effects of a pollution source are not always felt only where emissions begin. This matters because air pollution is already a major global health risk. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution contributes to around 7 million premature deaths each year, many linked to respiratory and cardiovascular disease (2). The 2025 World Air Quality Report estimated that only 14% of global cities met recommended annual air quality guideline levels. When pollution crosses borders, it can complicate public-health warnings, blur accountability, and expose communities far from the original source. The costs are not only medical. Poor air quality can strain healthcare systems, disrupt schools and travel, reduce productivity, and create major economic losses (3). Yet despite this shared reality, air pollution is still too often treated as a domestic issue rather than a regional or global one. When desert dust travels thousands of miles One of the clearest examples of transboundary pollution is Saharan dust. Each year, powerful dust storms lift vast amounts of particles from North Africa and carry them westward across the Atlantic. In June 2020, a record-breaking Saharan dust plume—widely referred to as the “Godzilla Dust Storm”—traveled more than 5,000 miles, affecting air quality across the Caribbean, parts of the United States, Central America, and northern South America. During events like this, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations can rise sharply, increasing health risks for people with asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory vulnerabilities. (4). While Saharan dust can play ecological roles—such as fertilizing parts of the Amazon—its health impacts are also well documented. Studies have found that Saharan dust events can worsen respiratory conditions and are associated with increased respiratory health risks (5). Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing lung disease, may face greater risk during major dust episodes. Saharan dust affects health not only across North Africa, but also in parts of Europe and the Americas. Similar long-range dust transport also affects East Asia, where desert dust can degrade air quality in China, Korea, and Japan. How seasonal haze spreads across borders Though it’s a global practice, crop burning is particularly acute in South Asia and Southeast Asia. In South Asia, annual crop residue burning primarily in India and Pakistan creates a toxic smog that blankets Nepal, Bangladesh, and beyond (6). This seasonal haze spikes PM2.5 levels, leading to school closures, flight cancellations, and thousands of hospitalizations for respiratory distress. The 2013 “Airpocalypse” in China, meanwhile, saw PM2.5 concentrations reach extreme levels and reportedly drove Beijing Children’s Hospital to treat about 7,000 patients a day (7). The smog didn’t stop at China’s borders; it drifted into South Korea and Japan and prompted calls for greater regional cooperation (8). Airborne pollutants from Chinese factories and power plants can contribute to air quality problems in East Asia and beyond. While China has made progress in reducing domestic pollution—sulfur dioxide emissions have dropped by 75% between 2013 and 2020—the transboundary nature of the issue demands broader solutions (9). Wildfire smoke travels farther than most people think Wildfire smoke is another reminder that air pollution does not stop at the border. During Canada’s record-setting 2023 wildfire season, releasing an estimated 647 teragrams of carbon. The smoke spread across North America and, at times, across the Atlantic into Europe (10)(11). That smoke degraded air quality far from the fires themselves, exposing millions to elevated PM2.5 levels and producing hazy skies in cities thousands of miles away (12). Australia’s 2019–2020 bushfires offered another striking example. Smoke from those fires circled much of the globe and was detected as far away as South America and Antarctica (13). Greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed. As the climate warms, many regions are seeing longer and more intense wildfire seasons. In some places, fires are burning hotter, spreading farther, and producing more smoke over longer periods of time. Rather than blaming neighbors, greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed. Why national policy alone is not enough National air quality laws remain essential. They help countries regulate emissions, set standards, and build enforcement systems. But they are not enough on their own when pollution regularly travels beyond the jurisdiction that produced it. That is the central mismatch in transboundary air pollution: the atmosphere moves freely, while policy usually stops at the border. Domestic laws such as the U.S. Clean Air Act remain essential for source control and enforceable standards, but they cannot fully address pollution that regularly moves across jurisdictions (14). The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, signed in 2002, remains one of the few regional agreements focused specifically on cross-border air pollution (15). While it has fostered some cooperation—such as shared monitoring and emergency response protocols—its effectiveness is limited by national sovereignty concerns and uneven enforcement. Cross-border monitoring systems, regional directives, and international clean air initiatives offer stronger models for cooperation—especially when they combine shared data, common standards, and earlier public-health warnings (16)(17)(18). Without that kind of coordination, health warnings can come later, accountability can weaken, and communities downwind are left to manage risks they did not create. Collective action needed across borders Transboundary air pollution is a large-scale problem, but not an abstract one. The most effective responses combine earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and practical steps that reduce exposure while cutting pollution at the source. What governments can do Expanded cross-border data sharing, real-time air quality monitoring, and unified standards can improve public health responses. Strengthen legally binding treaties and agreements with clear accountability mechanisms to reduce emissions at the source. By investing in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, governments can cut pollution before it crosses borders. Enforce existing legislation and treaties to curtail industrial pollution and crop burning practices. What individuals can do Urge leaders to prioritize global air quality in climate and health agendas. Citizen-led air quality monitoring initiatives can help communities spot poor air days sooner and make better-informed choices, such as staying indoors or closing windows. Downloading a free air quality app can provide alerts when pollution levels rise On high-pollution days, running an air purifier and wearing a mask while outdoors can provide essential personal protection. Conclusion Air pollution may begin locally, but it often does not stay local. Dust, smoke, and industrial emissions can travel far beyond their source, exposing communities that had no role in creating them. That is why transboundary pollution requires more than national action alone. It requires shared data, earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and policies that reflect how the atmosphere actually works. The air people breathe is shaped not only by what happens nearby, but also by what happens upwind, across borders, and sometimes across oceans. Cleaner air depends on treating that reality as a shared responsibility.","

Air pollution is often discussed as a local problem. However, our climate system is singular and interconnects the entire planet. The atmosphere operates without political borders, as these are a human construct.

Every year, desert dust, wildfire smoke, crop burning haze, and industrial emissions travel hundreds or even thousands of miles from where they began. A pollution event in one region can shape air quality, health risks, and public warnings far away.

That makes air pollution more than a domestic policy issue. It is a shared public-health challenge—one that requires collective action—better monitoring, better coordination, and a clearer understanding that the air over one country rarely belongs to that country alone.

Air pollution is one of the clearest examples of how environmental risks can move across political boundaries (1). The science, monitoring tools, and policy models to respond already exist—but acting on them requires coordination that matches how the atmosphere actually works.

Why air pollution becomes everyone’s problem

Wind patterns, seasonal weather systems, and jet streams can carry pollution across regions, continents, and oceans. That means the health effects of a pollution source are not always felt only where emissions begin.

This matters because air pollution is already a major global health risk. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution contributes to around 7 million premature deaths each year, many linked to respiratory and cardiovascular disease (2).

The 2025 World Air Quality Report estimated that only 14% of global cities met recommended annual air quality guideline levels. When pollution crosses borders, it can complicate public-health warnings, blur accountability, and expose communities far from the original source.

The costs are not only medical. Poor air quality can strain healthcare systems, disrupt schools and travel, reduce productivity, and create major economic losses (3). Yet despite this shared reality, air pollution is still too often treated as a domestic issue rather than a regional or global one.

When desert dust travels thousands of miles

One of the clearest examples of transboundary pollution is Saharan dust. Each year, powerful dust storms lift vast amounts of particles from North Africa and carry them westward across the Atlantic.

In June 2020, a record-breaking Saharan dust plume—widely referred to as the “Godzilla Dust Storm”—traveled more than 5,000 miles, affecting air quality across the Caribbean, parts of the United States, Central America, and northern South America. During events like this, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations can rise sharply, increasing health risks for people with asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory vulnerabilities. (4).

While Saharan dust can play ecological roles—such as fertilizing parts of the Amazon—its health impacts are also well documented. Studies have found that Saharan dust events can worsen respiratory conditions and are associated with increased respiratory health risks (5). Vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing lung disease, may face greater risk during major dust episodes.

Saharan dust affects health not only across North Africa, but also in parts of Europe and the Americas. Similar long-range dust transport also affects East Asia, where desert dust can degrade air quality in China, Korea, and Japan.

How seasonal haze spreads across borders

Though it’s a global practice, crop burning is particularly acute in South Asia and Southeast Asia.

In South Asia, annual crop residue burning primarily in India and Pakistan creates a toxic smog that blankets Nepal, Bangladesh, and beyond (6). This seasonal haze spikes PM2.5 levels, leading to school closures, flight cancellations, and thousands of hospitalizations for respiratory distress.

The 2013 “Airpocalypse” in China, meanwhile, saw PM2.5 concentrations reach extreme levels and reportedly drove Beijing Children’s Hospital to treat about 7,000 patients a day (7). The smog didn’t stop at China’s borders; it drifted into South Korea and Japan and prompted calls for greater regional cooperation (8).

Airborne pollutants from Chinese factories and power plants can contribute to air quality problems in East Asia and beyond. While China has made progress in reducing domestic pollution—sulfur dioxide emissions have dropped by 75% between 2013 and 2020—the transboundary nature of the issue demands broader solutions (9).

Wildfire smoke travels farther than most people think

Wildfire smoke is another reminder that air pollution does not stop at the border. During Canada’s record-setting 2023 wildfire season, releasing an estimated 647 teragrams of carbon. The smoke spread across North America and, at times, across the Atlantic into Europe (10)(11).

That smoke degraded air quality far from the fires themselves, exposing millions to elevated PM2.5 levels and producing hazy skies in cities thousands of miles away (12).

Australia’s 2019–2020 bushfires offered another striking example. Smoke from those fires circled much of the globe and was detected as far away as South America and Antarctica (13).

Greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed.

As the climate warms, many regions are seeing longer and more intense wildfire seasons. In some places, fires are burning hotter, spreading farther, and producing more smoke over longer periods of time.

Rather than blaming neighbors, greater regional planning and cooperation for wildfire season and its accompanying smoke is needed.

Why national policy alone is not enough

National air quality laws remain essential. They help countries regulate emissions, set standards, and build enforcement systems. But they are not enough on their own when pollution regularly travels beyond the jurisdiction that produced it.

That is the central mismatch in transboundary air pollution: the atmosphere moves freely, while policy usually stops at the border. Domestic laws such as the U.S. Clean Air Act remain essential for source control and enforceable standards, but they cannot fully address pollution that regularly moves across jurisdictions (14).

The ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, signed in 2002, remains one of the few regional agreements focused specifically on cross-border air pollution (15). While it has fostered some cooperation—such as shared monitoring and emergency response protocols—its effectiveness is limited by national sovereignty concerns and uneven enforcement.

Cross-border monitoring systems, regional directives, and international clean air initiatives offer stronger models for cooperation—especially when they combine shared data, common standards, and earlier public-health warnings (16)(17)(18). Without that kind of coordination, health warnings can come later, accountability can weaken, and communities downwind are left to manage risks they did not create.

Collective action needed across borders

Transboundary air pollution is a large-scale problem, but not an abstract one. The most effective responses combine earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and practical steps that reduce exposure while cutting pollution at the source.

What governments can do

Expanded cross-border data sharing, real-time air quality monitoring, and unified standards can improve public health responses.
Strengthen legally binding treaties and agreements with clear accountability mechanisms to reduce emissions at the source.
By investing in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, governments can cut pollution before it crosses borders.
Enforce existing legislation and treaties to curtail industrial pollution and crop burning practices.

What individuals can do

Urge leaders to prioritize global air quality in climate and health agendas.
\nCitizen-led air quality monitoring initiatives can help communities spot poor air days sooner and make better-informed choices, such as staying indoors or closing windows.
\nDownloading a free air quality app can provide alerts when pollution levels rise
On high-pollution days, running an air purifier and wearing a mask while outdoors can provide essential personal protection.

Conclusion

Air pollution may begin locally, but it often does not stay local. Dust, smoke, and industrial emissions can travel far beyond their source, exposing communities that had no role in creating them.

That is why transboundary pollution requires more than national action alone. It requires shared data, earlier warnings, stronger regional coordination, and policies that reflect how the atmosphere actually works.

The air people breathe is shaped not only by what happens nearby, but also by what happens upwind, across borders, and sometimes across oceans. Cleaner air depends on treating that reality as a shared responsibility.

","one-planet-one-climate-system","gid://shopify/Article/1000928313718","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/one-planet-one-climate-system","2026-04-13T16:22:21Z",[390,638,1282],"One planet, one climate system: Transboundary pollution requires collective action",{"_10":1301,"_243":-5,"_246":1302,"_248":1303,"_244":1304},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414412898678","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/A_264ff032-fa92-435c-a29a-991dba8d6477.jpg?v=1776116320",839,674,"latest",[1307,1324,1340,1356,1373,1389],{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1308,"_1120":1309,"_1136":1310,"_1138":1311,"_1140":1312,"_1142":1313,"_985":1314,"_10":1315,"_1146":1316,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1317,"_577":1318,"_541":1319,"_1154":1320},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Find out more about the Smoke Show Fire currently active in Mississippi and its impact on surrounding areas.","

Find out more about the Smoke Show Fire currently active in Mississippi and its impact on surrounding areas.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? On April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire is an active wildfire burning near New Augusta in Perry County, Mississippi. Located in the southeastern region of the state, the fire is being closely monitored through national tracking systems, including the National Interagency Fire Center. Which cities or areas are affected by the Smoke Show Fire? The cities and areas affected by the Smoke Show Fire include: New Augusta Perry County What is the current containment status of the Smoke Show Fire? On April 16, 2025, the Smoke Show Fire has burned 4,896.2 acres and remains 0% contained. Fire response efforts are being led by the U.S. Forest Service in coordination with the Mississippi Interagency Coordination Center, though detailed progress on containment operations has not been publicly disclosed. (2) Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? There are no reported mandatory evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, or active emergency alerts associated with the Smoke Show Fire. Additionally, there are no confirmed road closures, shelter activations, or curfew measures in place. Residents are encouraged to remain informed through local emergency management authorities for any potential updates. How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. On April 16, 2025, this fire is 0% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

On April 16, 2026, the Smoke Show Fire is an active wildfire burning near New Augusta in Perry County, Mississippi.

Located in the southeastern region of the state, the fire is being closely monitored through national tracking systems, including the National Interagency Fire Center.

Which cities or areas are affected by the Smoke Show Fire?

The cities and areas affected by the Smoke Show Fire include:

New Augusta
Perry County

What is the current containment status of the Smoke Show Fire?

On April 16, 2025, the Smoke Show Fire has burned 4,896.2 acres and remains 0% contained.

Fire response efforts are being led by the U.S. Forest Service in coordination with the Mississippi Interagency Coordination Center, though detailed progress on containment operations has not been publicly disclosed. (2)

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There are no reported mandatory evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, or active emergency alerts associated with the Smoke Show Fire.

Additionally, there are no confirmed road closures, shelter activations, or curfew measures in place. Residents are encouraged to remain informed through local emergency management authorities for any potential updates.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

On April 16, 2025, this fire is 0% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-smoke-show-fire-mississippi","gid://shopify/Article/1001087172982","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-smoke-show-fire-mississippi","2026-04-16T09:01:59Z",[390,638,663],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Smoke Show Fire, Mississippi",{"_10":1321,"_243":1322,"_246":1323,"_248":1303,"_244":1304},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414534861174","Forest wrapped in a haze of smoke","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire8Desktop_19209a0e-a94a-465e-8986-0329f61938e2.jpg?v=1776359485",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1325,"_1120":1326,"_1136":1327,"_1138":1328,"_1140":1329,"_1142":1330,"_985":1331,"_10":1332,"_1146":1333,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1334,"_577":1335,"_541":1336,"_1154":1337},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Chiang Mai records unhealthy air with AQI above 150 due to seasonal burning and haze. Learn more about causes and expected improvements.","

Chiang Mai records unhealthy air with AQI above 150 due to seasonal burning and haze. Learn more about causes and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Chiang Mai? As of April 16, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+7) Chiang Mai is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range. Elevated PM2.5 concentrations are the primary pollutant, contributing to dense haze and reduced visibility across the region. Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Chiang Mai’s air quality map. While pollution levels are currently elevated, long-term data suggest more moderate conditions overall. In 2025, Chiang Mai recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 18.2 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 63, placing it in the Moderate category and 3.6 times above the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. Air quality map of Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Chiang Mai? Short-term improvements depend largely on weather changes. Stronger winds and rainfall can help disperse accumulated pollutants and reduce PM2.5 concentrations. However, during the late dry season in northern Thailand, air quality often remains poor due to persistent haze and limited atmospheric mixing. Pollution levels may continue to fluctuate in the coming days, with more noticeable improvement expected only when consistent rainfall arrives and regional burning activity declines (1). Hourly air quality forecast for Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir. What is causing poor air quality in Chiang Mai? Air pollution in Chiang Mai is primarily driven by seasonal biomass burning across northern Thailand and neighboring countries. Agricultural burning, forest fires, and land clearing release large volumes of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel long distances and accumulate over the region (2). Local sources also contribute to the problem. Vehicle emissions, urban activities, and small-scale industries add to PM2.5 levels, especially in densely populated areas. The region’s mountainous geography further exacerbates pollution by trapping air masses and limiting dispersion (3). Dry season conditions, including low wind speeds and minimal rainfall, allow pollutants to build up and persist, leading to recurring haze episodes each year. How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Chiang Mai?

As of April 16, 2026, 2:30 PM (local time, GMT+7) Chiang Mai is experiencing poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index exceeding 150, placing conditions in the unhealthy range.

Elevated PM2.5 concentrations are the primary pollutant, contributing to dense haze and reduced visibility across the region.

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time view of current pollution levels, see Chiang Mai’s air quality map.

While pollution levels are currently elevated, long-term data suggest more moderate conditions overall. In 2025, Chiang Mai recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 18.2 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 63, placing it in the Moderate category and 3.6 times above the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³.

$\"\"$ Chiang Mai, Thailand, ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Chiang Mai?

Short-term improvements depend largely on weather changes. Stronger winds and rainfall can help disperse accumulated pollutants and reduce PM2.5 concentrations. However, during the late dry season in northern Thailand, air quality often remains poor due to persistent haze and limited atmospheric mixing. Pollution levels may continue to fluctuate in the coming days, with more noticeable improvement expected only when consistent rainfall arrives and regional burning activity declines (1).

$\"\"$ Hourly air quality forecast for Chiang Mai, Thailand, as of April 16, 2026, at 2:30 PM. Source: IQAir.

What is causing poor air quality in Chiang Mai?

Air pollution in Chiang Mai is primarily driven by seasonal biomass burning across northern Thailand and neighboring countries. Agricultural burning, forest fires, and land clearing release large volumes of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel long distances and accumulate over the region (2).

Local sources also contribute to the problem. Vehicle emissions, urban activities, and small-scale industries add to PM2.5 levels, especially in densely populated areas. The region’s mountainous geography further exacerbates pollution by trapping air masses and limiting dispersion (3).

Dry season conditions, including low wind speeds and minimal rainfall, allow pollutants to build up and persist, leading to recurring haze episodes each year.

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","chiang-mai-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-16-2026","gid://shopify/Article/1001086615926","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/chiang-mai-among-top-10-most-polluted-cities-in-the-world-4-16-2026","2026-04-16T08:11:57Z",[390,638],"April 16, 2026: Chiang Mai among top 10 most polluted cities in the world",{"_10":1338,"_243":-5,"_246":1339,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414508876150","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/ChiangMaiDesktop_7a555f3b-e255-47c7-bac5-d1c4ca1dd793.jpg?v=1776327121",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1341,"_1120":1342,"_1136":1343,"_1138":1344,"_1140":1345,"_1142":1346,"_985":1347,"_10":1348,"_1146":1349,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1350,"_577":1351,"_541":1352,"_1154":1353},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

China grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in China? As of April 16, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 1:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, UTC+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025. Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China? As of April 16, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Aksu Baise Beijing Changchun Chengde Hebi Jinzhou Tangshan Tianjin Xinxiang Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map. Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in China? With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold. More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1). What is causing poor air quality in China? The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions. Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in China?

As of April 16, 2026, air quality in China remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 1:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, UTC+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China?

As of April 16, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 1:00 PM (CST) on April 16, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in China?

With spring now underway, the end of the coal-fired heating season should bring some relief, as heating-related emissions begin to ease. However, March and April bring their own challenge: this period has the highest frequency of sand and dust weather, with storms primarily originating from Mongolia, capable of spiking PM10 concentrations several fold.

More sustained improvement is expected by late April to May, as warmer temperatures, stronger winds, and spring rainfall help disperse pollutants. Lasting progress still depends on continued emission controls and cleaner energy adoption (1).

What is causing poor air quality in China?

The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emission, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (2).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to frequent dust storms from the Gobi Desert, Taklimakan Desert, and Inner Mongolian Plateau, causing sudden PM10 spikes. Higher temperature and humidity levels rise, and winds contribute to the smog by carrying pollutants from industrialized regions.

Resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, and transboundary pollution also contribute. Meteorological conditions favor the mobilization and transport of dust in spring (3).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","china-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/999656948086","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/china-air-quality-alert","2026-04-16T05:01:07Z",[390,638],"China Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1354,"_243":-5,"_246":1355,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414505894262","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/BeijingDesktop_2e6a5ba2-e47a-468a-a6d2-7e8263d8c893.jpg?v=1776315673",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1357,"_1120":1358,"_1136":1359,"_1138":1360,"_1140":1361,"_1142":1362,"_985":1363,"_10":1364,"_1146":1365,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1366,"_577":1367,"_541":1369,"_1154":1370},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.","

Extensive flooding has caused most Michigan counties to enter a flood watch. Learn more about what is causing the Michigan floods.

","What is the location of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1). Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2). Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3): River Oak, near Au Sable River Sherman, near Manistee River Evart, near Muskegon River Newaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams. What is the current containment status of the flooding? On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4). Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, intense rainfall on top of saturated snowy grounds has caused extensive flooding across northern and southwestern areas of Michigan. With an earlier onset of spring and warmer weather, previous snowfall melted at quick rates. On top of the rainy conditions, the excess water has caused small dam failures, an overflow of rivers and streams, as well as road closures (1).

Counties across Michigan and neighboring states have received flood watch warnings including eastern Wisconsin, northern Indiana, northwestern Ohio, and northeastern Illinois (2).

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Most communities experiencing significant flooding are located near riverbanks or streams that have become overflown by flood water, including (3):

River Oak, near Au Sable River
Sherman, near Manistee River
\nEvart, near Muskegon River
\nNewaygo and Bridgeton, near Muskegon River

Excess flooding usually collects and drains into larger bodies of water, creating massive overflow that has caused the damage and breakage of a few small, unregulated dams.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

On April 15, 2026, the flood is ongoing as rainfall continues to feed into the overflow of water. Michigan has seen up to 2.5 inches of rainfall since Tuesday and is expected to receive an additional 3 inches over the next two days. County officials are preparing structures for impact, stacking sandbags along dams to reinforce the walls containing the excess water. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statewide energy emergency, suspending some regulations to allow for faster response time (4).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

County authorities across the state have issued individual warnings to various communities and begun evacuations for flood-prone areas. Almost the entire state has entered a flood watch warning or received evacuation notices. In Cheboygan, Michigan state troopers visited residents door-to-door to warn people and ensure everyone is aware of evacuation orders in place. Cheboygan County is located near Little Black River, which has caused a flooding for residents living in lower regions of the community (5).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","gid://shopify/Article/1001085206902","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-michigan-flooding","2026-04-15T21:16:48Z",[390,638,1368],"Molds","Indoor Air Quality Alert: Michigan Flooding",{"_10":1371,"_243":-5,"_246":1372,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414498685302","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding3Desktop_b703fdf0-20fa-4f5d-a7f5-87456f67d470.jpg?v=1776289010",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1374,"_1120":1375,"_1136":1376,"_1138":1377,"_1140":1378,"_1142":1379,"_985":1380,"_10":1381,"_1146":1382,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1383,"_577":1384,"_541":1385,"_1154":1386},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Pakistan grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

Pakistan grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in Pakistan? As of April 15, 2026, air quality in some parts of Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 10:30 AM (Pakistan Standard Time), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy.” This level is nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, making Pakistan the most polluted country. Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan? As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Faisalabad Lahore Multan Rahim Yar Khan Sargodha Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map. Lahore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Pakistan? Short-term improvements depend on weather. Wind, rain, and stronger mixing can lower concentrations within days. In spring (March-May), as temperatures increase, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5. Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2). What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan? The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhausts, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (3). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollen particles and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (4). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Pakistan?

As of April 15, 2026, air quality in some parts of Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" levels and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 10:30 AM (Pakistan Standard Time), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m³, equivalent to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy.” This level is nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³, making Pakistan the most polluted country.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan?

As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Lahore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 AM (PST) on April 15, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Pakistan?

Short-term improvements depend on weather. Wind, rain, and stronger mixing can lower concentrations within days. In spring (March-May), as temperatures increase, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5.

Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2).

What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan?

The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhausts, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (3).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollen particles and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (4).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","pakistan-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/999612154230","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/pakistan-air-quality-alert","2026-04-15T05:33:57Z",[390,638],"Pakistan Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1387,"_243":-5,"_246":1388,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414493049206","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/KarachiDesktop_c83fb92c-ab09-40ba-b5c7-de14e1deb6a7.jpg?v=1776268209",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1390,"_1120":1391,"_1136":1392,"_1138":1393,"_1140":1394,"_1142":1395,"_985":1396,"_10":1397,"_1146":1398,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1399,"_577":1400,"_541":1401,"_1154":1402},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"India grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.","

India grapples with unhealthy air pollution, affecting major cities and public health. Learn more about the impacted regions, underlying causes, and expected improvements.

","Is the air quality good in India? As of April 15, 2026, air quality in India remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 10:30 AM IST (Indian Standard Time, GMT+5:30), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, India’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 48.9 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 134, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups\". This level is nearly 9.78 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing India sixth globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report. Air quality map of India and neighboring countries as of April 15, 2026, according to IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in India? As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across India are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Agra Asansol Delhi Gwalior Kolkata Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see India's air quality map. Delhi and Kolkata ranked among the most polluted cities globally, as of 10:30 AM (IST), April 15, 2026, according to IQAir. When will the air quality improve in India? Short-term improvements depend on favorable weather; winds, rain, and increased atmospheric mixing will help disperse pollutants. In spring (March-May), as temperatures rise, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5. Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants and dramatically reduces PM2.5 levels, as seen in Kolkata where monsoon averages drop to 20-21 µg/m³ compared to winter highs of 77-80 µg/m³ (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2). What is causing poor air quality in India? The root causes of air pollution in India include household emissions, power sector emissions, industrial activities, transportation, open burning of crops and waste, and dust, with household emissions contributing about 30-50% of ambient PM2.5 levels year-round (3). In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, dust storms and resuspension of road dust in dry and semi-arid regions causing sudden PM10 spikes, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollens and allergens. Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (4). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in India?

As of April 15, 2026, air quality in India remains poor, with some of the major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 10:30 AM IST (Indian Standard Time, GMT+5:30), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, India’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 48.9 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 134, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups\". This level is nearly 9.78 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing India sixth globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report.

$\"\"$ Air quality map of India and neighboring countries as of April 15, 2026, according to IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in India?

As of April 15, 2026, several major cities across India are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Agra
Asansol
Delhi
Gwalior
Kolkata

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see India's air quality map.

$\"\"$ Delhi and Kolkata ranked among the most polluted cities globally, as of 10:30 AM (IST), April 15, 2026, according to IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in India?

Short-term improvements depend on favorable weather; winds, rain, and increased atmospheric mixing will help disperse pollutants. In spring (March-May), as temperatures rise, hot air rises and cooler air sinks, easing pollution. However, early spring may still have stagnant air, low winds, and high temperatures trapping pollutants like PM2.5.

Full relief comes with the monsoon season (June-September), which washes away pollutants and dramatically reduces PM2.5 levels, as seen in Kolkata where monsoon averages drop to 20-21 µg/m³ compared to winter highs of 77-80 µg/m³ (1). Lasting improvement requires policy action and seasonal controls. Without those, severe episodes are likely to recur (2).

What is causing poor air quality in India?

The root causes of air pollution in India include household emissions, power sector emissions, industrial activities, transportation, open burning of crops and waste, and dust, with household emissions contributing about 30-50% of ambient PM2.5 levels year-round (3).

In spring (March-May), pollution persists due to resuspended road dust from construction and urbanization, dust storms and resuspension of road dust in dry and semi-arid regions causing sudden PM10 spikes, high temperatures accompanied by little wind and stagnant air trapping particulate matter, and high density of pollens and allergens.

Residual effects from winter stubble burning and transboundary pollution from neighboring regions also contribute (4).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","india-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/999673004406","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/india-air-quality-alert","2026-04-15T05:03:31Z",[390,638],"India Air Quality Alert",{"_10":1403,"_243":-5,"_246":1404,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/414458347894","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/DelhiDesktop_ad4c0566-0c73-44f4-9940-90823686eaa1.jpg?v=1776229426","popular",[1407,1425,1441,1457],{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1408,"_1120":1409,"_1136":1410,"_1138":1410,"_1140":1411,"_1142":1412,"_985":1413,"_10":1414,"_1146":1415,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1416,"_577":1417,"_541":1420,"_1154":1421},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Learn why wildfire smoke poses a health risk to people living far downwind and what you can do to help protect yourself.","When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation. The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation. Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways: by robbing it of oxygen through particulate matter irritation Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.1 Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke. What’s in wildfire smoke? Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire. Wildfire smoke often contains: water vapor particulate matter trace minerals carbon dioxide carbon monoxide nitrogen oxides hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O3) levels volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants) Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body. Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including: the types of wood and vegetation burning the moisture content the fire temperature wind conditions other weather-related influences The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health. Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs. The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body. Clean the air with high-performance air filtration Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers Click here Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:2 Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition. Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population. Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease. Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk. Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.3 The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.4 Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.5 The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition. How wildfire smoke behaves Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as: weather geographical terrain the stage of the fire wind Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you. Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact. Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts. Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.6 Wildfire safety tips Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires. Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires. Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available. Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help. Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO2 from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire. Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO2, and NO2, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health. Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions. During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air. The takeaway Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source. Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks. By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.","

When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation.

The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.

Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways:

by robbing it of oxygen
through particulate matter irritation

Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.¹

Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke.

What’s in wildfire smoke?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire.

Wildfire smoke often contains:

\n
water vapor
\n
\n
particulate matter
\n
\n
trace minerals
\n
\n
carbon dioxide
\n
\n
carbon monoxide
\n
\n
nitrogen oxides
\n
\n
hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O₃) levels
\n
\n
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants)
\n

Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body.

$\"What's$

Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir

Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including:

\n
the types of wood and vegetation burning
\n

\n
the moisture content
\n
\n
the fire temperature
\n
\n
wind conditions
\n
\n
other weather-related influences
\n

The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health.

Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs.

The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body.

\n \n

\n\n

Clean the air with high-performance air filtration
Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers

\n\n

Click here

Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations

Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:²

\n
Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition.
\n
\n
Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population.
\n
\n
Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease.
\n
\n
Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk.
\n
\n
Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia.
\n

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.³

The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.⁴

Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.⁵ The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition.

 Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition.

How wildfire smoke behaves

Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as:

\n
weather
\n
\n
geographical terrain
\n
\n
the stage of the fire
\n
\n
wind
\n

Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you.

$\"placeholder$

Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact.

Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts.

Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.⁶

Wildfire safety tips

Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires.

\n
Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
\n
\n
Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
\n
\n
Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
\n
\n
Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants.
\n
\n
Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.
\n
\n
Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO₂, and NO₂, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health.
\n

$\"Google$ $\"App$ $\"Android\"$

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air.

The takeaway

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source.

Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks.

By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.

","how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/606869291307","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","2025-07-01T20:46:00Z",[390,638,1418,1419],"Popular articles","Wildfires","How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_10":1422,"_243":1423,"_246":1424,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406601138550","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_790d6d55-874f-4c95-bff8-11655661a476.jpg?v=1752702197",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1426,"_1120":1427,"_1136":1428,"_1138":1428,"_1140":1429,"_1142":1430,"_985":1431,"_10":1432,"_1146":1433,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1434,"_577":1435,"_541":1436,"_1154":1437},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"How can you know what air purifier manufacturers to trust? Let's look more critically at air purification.","The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification. But not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction. What should I look for in an air purifier? Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier. 1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry. What is a HEPA filter? High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market. But it wasn’t always that way. Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1). Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2). HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants. In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3). Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size. 2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal. All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA. To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4). The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5). So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6). Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less. Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media. 3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA. While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air. Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in. How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think: Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen. Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields. Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter). Air passes through the activated carbon bed. Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area. Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8). Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to. The takeaway Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are: HyperHEPA media for particle filtration No system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing Activated carbon for gas and odor filtration But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier. What should I avoid in an air purifier? When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited. But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase. So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health. Ionizer air purifiers Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture. Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10). But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12): Ionizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions. Ionizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations. Verdict Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.” Ozone Generators It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13). Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm. However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18): Ozone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases. Ozone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children. Indoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks. Verdict Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets. UV Light Purifiers Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20). One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI. In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21). But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26): Bacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful. Some bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light. UV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5. Many UV air purifiers produce ozone. UV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer. Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter. Verdict Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated. What do I do now? At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system. So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality: Get a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence. Use advanced gas-phase filtration. Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon. The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration. Use a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere. Install a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality. Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs. The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.","

The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification.

But not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction.

What should I look for in an air purifier?

Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier.

$\"Air$

1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1).

Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2).

HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants.

In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3).

Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.

The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems.

Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size.

2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal.

All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA.

To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4).

The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5).

So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6).

Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less.

Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media.

3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA.

While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air.

Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in.

How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think:

Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen.
Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields.
Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter).
Air passes through the activated carbon bed.
Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area.

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8).

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes.

Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to.

The takeaway

Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are:

\nHyperHEPA media for particle filtration
\nNo system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing
\nActivated carbon for gas and odor filtration

But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier.

What should I avoid in an air purifier?

When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited.

But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase.

So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health.

Ionizer air purifiers

Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture.

Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10).

But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12):

\nIonizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions.
\nIonizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. \n

Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations.

Verdict

Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.”

Ozone Generators

It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13).

Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm.

However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18):

\nOzone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases.
\nOzone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children.
\nIndoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks.

Verdict

Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets.

UV Light Purifiers

Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20).

One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI.

In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21).

But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26):

\nBacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful.
\nSome bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light.
\nUV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5.
Many UV air purifiers produce ozone.
\nUV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer.

Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter.

Verdict

Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated.

What do I do now?

At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system.

So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality:

\nGet a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence.
\nUse advanced gas-phase filtration.\n
- Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon.
- The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration.
\n
\nUse a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere.
\nInstall a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality.

Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs.

The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.

","do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869193003","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","2022-01-02T14:14:32Z",[853,653,1418],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_10":1438,"_243":1439,"_246":1440,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/408358224246","Close-up of what appears to be a room air purifier with some plants in the background (another indoor air purifying tool that has been shown to be ineffective in improving indoor air quality).","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_misconceptions-about-air-purifiers_5058ed72-2e8d-4b0f-9570-93510f9f1f89.jpg?v=1758212336",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1442,"_1120":1443,"_1136":1444,"_1138":1444,"_1140":1445,"_1142":1446,"_985":1447,"_10":1448,"_1146":1449,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1450,"_577":1451,"_541":1452,"_1154":1453},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"They look great on your nightstand, but are they worth their salt as air purifiers? Learn more.","Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?Again, two words: negative ionization.If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.1 Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.2The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O3).There are two main types of ozone: Stratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke. Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including: Coughing Wheezing Trouble breathing Stuffy nose Dizziness Tingling in arms and legs Fever3,4 Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:5 Stable air temperature Moderate to high humidity Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium Lack of airborne pollutants Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.6Take the claims with a grain of...well, saltSo here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead: Be aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes. Control sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions. Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%. Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites. Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas. Ventilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels. Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good. Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking. Use an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone. Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.","

Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.

These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.

They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.

But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.

A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.

And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.

Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?

Again, two words: negative ionization.

If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.

In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.

This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.¹ Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.

The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.

Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.²

The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.

And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O₃).

There are two main types of ozone:

\nStratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
\nTropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke.

Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.

If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including:

Coughing
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Stuffy nose
Dizziness
Tingling in arms and legs
Fever^3,4\n

Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.

So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.

So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?

So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?

The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.

Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:⁵

Stable air temperature
Moderate to high humidity
Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Lack of airborne pollutants

Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.⁶

Take the claims with a grain of...well, salt

So here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.

But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.

You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead:

\nBe aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes.
\nControl sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions.\n\n\t
- Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%.
- Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites.
- Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas.
\n\n\t
\nVentilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels.\n\n\t
- Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking.
\n\n\t
\nUse an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone.

Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.
\n\n

","himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869356843","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","2019-06-17T13:49:29Z",[390,653,1418],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_10":1454,"_243":1455,"_246":1456,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406288400758","Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_HimalayanSalt_061419_750_ebdb5244-3cb4-49a7-b887-47de5134ba96.jpg?v=1751543557",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1458,"_1120":1459,"_1136":1460,"_1138":1460,"_1140":1461,"_1142":1462,"_985":1463,"_10":1464,"_1146":1465,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1466,"_577":1467,"_541":1468,"_1154":1469},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Learn more how scented candles release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit — and can harm your health.","Are scented candles bad for you?Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.Paraffin waxAre paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like: alkenes acetone benzene toluene These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).Is burning candles bad for you?In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including: allergies asthma COPD (5) respiratory tract infections heart attacks strokes cancer So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).Chemical fragrancesAnother problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7): formaldehyde petroleum distillates limonene alcohol esters These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as: headaches dizziness allergy symptoms asthma attacks respiratory tract infections cancer Cored wicksMany candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).Safer alternativesTo limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air: Use essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma. Simmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. Create potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home. The takeawayLighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.","

Are scented candles bad for you?

Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.

Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.

Paraffin wax

Are paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?

According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like:

alkenes
acetone
benzene
toluene

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.

A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).

Is burning candles bad for you?

In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).

A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).

Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including:

allergies
asthma
COPD (5)
respiratory tract infections
heart attacks
strokes
cancer

So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).

Chemical fragrances

Another problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7):

formaldehyde
petroleum distillates
limonene
alcohol
esters

These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as:

headaches
dizziness
allergy symptoms
asthma attacks
respiratory tract infections
cancer
\n\n\t

Cored wicks

Many candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.

Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.

All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.

However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).

Safer alternatives

To limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).

If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air:

\nUse essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma.
\nSimmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
\nCreate potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.

The takeaway

Lighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.

","hidden-dangers-scented-candles","gid://shopify/Article/606869127467","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-scented-candles","2016-12-04T22:35:53Z",[653,1418],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_10":1470,"_243":1471,"_246":1472,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405721284982","Two lit candles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/49_scented_desktop_RE_3518d342-9492-4308-82e5-ee4111074a17.jpg?v=1749633010","successStories",[1475,1492,1509,1524],{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1476,"_1120":1477,"_1136":1478,"_1138":1479,"_1140":1480,"_1142":1481,"_985":1482,"_10":1483,"_1146":1484,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1485,"_577":1486,"_541":1487,"_1154":1488},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.","

Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.

","“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.” In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data. Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning. \"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.” “It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Local expertise, global resources drive innovation Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight. The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity. The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life. These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa. By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa. The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives. Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said. Cultivating environmental consciousness Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.” “Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.” Conclusion From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.","

“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.”

In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data.

Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air

In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning.

\"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.”

“It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Local expertise, global resources drive innovation

Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight.

The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity.

The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life.

These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa.

By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa.

The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa

The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report , there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.

Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives.

Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow

Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.

The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said.

Cultivating environmental consciousness

Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"

Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.”

“Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.”

Conclusion

From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.

Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.

Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.

","revealing-the-invisible-kenya","gid://shopify/Article/607976751403","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-kenya","2025-12-01T04:00:00Z",[648,838],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_10":1489,"_243":1490,"_246":1491,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/411421278582","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_4f1dd00b-baa3-4e27-9eed-3acd42f2faae.jpg?v=1767630558",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1493,"_1120":1494,"_1136":1495,"_1138":1496,"_1140":1497,"_1142":1498,"_985":1499,"_10":1500,"_1146":1501,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1502,"_577":1503,"_541":1504,"_1154":1505},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.","

WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.

","In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen. In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat. \"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan. As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.” Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data. \"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained. WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan. “Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data. With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country. Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers. Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change. Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan. \"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.” Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives. With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution. Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data. \"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution. The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\" “Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.” In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents. It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1). Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony. Conclusion WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters. “This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”","

In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen.

In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more.

Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat.

\"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan.

As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.”

Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data

Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data.

\"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained.

WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan.

“Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data.

With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country.

Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network

WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers.

Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change.

Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan

With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan.

\"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.”

Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives.

With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution.

Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions

WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data.

\"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution.

The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\"

“Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.”

In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents.

It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1).

Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony.

Conclusion

WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play.

As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters.

“This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”

","revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","gid://shopify/Article/997495079286","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","2025-11-12T17:43:03Z",[643,648,838],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_10":1506,"_243":1507,"_246":1508,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/410126352758","WWF Team standing Next to Solar Panel","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_PakistanContributor_Desk_A_a18d7b5d-29f7-4e70-ad5d-e0c4f15aebc6.jpg?v=1762969386",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1510,"_1120":1511,"_1136":43,"_1138":43,"_1140":1512,"_1142":1513,"_985":1514,"_10":1515,"_1146":1516,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1517,"_577":1518,"_541":1519,"_1154":1520},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors. A vision born from necessity Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted. Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air. “There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.” –Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health The journey of Permian Health Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside. \"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\" Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions. Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.” “The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.” Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March. Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data. Pioneering work on the ground To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\" This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said. However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues. ‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained. Uniting minds and garnering accolades To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project. A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data. \"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray. This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country. Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors. With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors. Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further. Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment. Hopes for the Future Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia. Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed. Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia. “We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.” \"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\" A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan. According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\" \"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network. Conclusion Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders. Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.","

In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors.

A vision born from necessity

Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted.

Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.

\n
“There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”
\n
–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health
\n

The journey of Permian Health

Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside.

\"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\"

Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality

Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions.

$\"\"$

Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.”

\n
“The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.”
\n

Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March.

Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data.

Pioneering work on the ground

To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\"

This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said.

However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues.

‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained.

Uniting minds and garnering accolades

To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project.

A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data.

\"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray.

This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country.

Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors.

With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors.

Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further.

Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment.

Hopes for the Future

Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia.

$\"\"$

Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed.

Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia.

\n
“We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.”
\n

\"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\"

A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan.

According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\"

\"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network.

Conclusion

Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders.

Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.

","permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","gid://shopify/Article/998083264886","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","2025-03-24T10:03:00Z",[643,648,838],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s air quality crusade in Gambia",{"_10":1521,"_243":1522,"_246":1523,"_248":1159,"_244":1160},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/407094034806","Man working on pole","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/PermianHealth_Desk_A_82dc4964-aaa3-4053-96ec-1d5218eb3bd9.jpg?v=1754470616",{"_1129":1130,"_1131":1525,"_1120":1526,"_1136":1527,"_1138":1528,"_1140":1529,"_1142":1530,"_985":1531,"_10":1532,"_1146":1533,"_1148":-5,"_1149":1534,"_577":1535,"_541":1537,"_1154":1538},{"_12":1133},{"_985":1135},"A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.","

A kitten rescue in Ontario needed a powerful clean air solution fast – and found it. Learn more about the essential role of clean air in shelters.

","Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region. Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them. Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively. Mission built on compassion Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017. “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” “I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.” Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.” But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality. Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem. “The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.” There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.” This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes. Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions. Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs. Life changing air cleaning solution Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively. Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’” That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable. The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges. “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared. The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat. Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.” “The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.” When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night. Looking ahead For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes. The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens. Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.” Conclusion Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal. For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.","

Nestled in a small town near Cornwall, Canada, Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue serves as a lifeline for abandoned and vulnerable kittens (1). For nearly eight years, rescue founder Mellissa has worked tirelessly to save and nurture the most fragile feline lives in the region.

Yet despite Mellissa’s dedication to maintaining a clean environment for those in her care, animal rescues must always contend with a formidable health challenge. Poor air quality impacts both kittens and the humans who care for them.

Thanks to advanced air purification technology, the rescue now breathes easier—literally and figuratively.

Mission built on compassion

Mellissa’s journey to creating Tiny but Mighty began with heartbreak. As a volunteer at her local animal shelter, she learned of the euthanasia of kittens deemed too young to care for. Unwilling to accept this outcome, she founded her own kitten-focused rescue in 2017.

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

“I had so many dreams about saving these kittens. They wouldn’t let up,” Mellissa shared. “Something told me to just do it myself—start my own rescue.”

Mellissa provides a safe space for kittens to grow and thrive until they find their carefully screened forever homes. Today, the rescue operates solely on donations and community support. “It’s such an incredible community. People do come through to support what I’m doing, so it’s incredible.”

But running a rescue isn’t without its challenges, and one significant one she uncovered was air quality.

Nova the kitten enjoying toys at the Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue.

Good air quality: Essential in animal rescues

Caring for kittens in any enclosed environment presents unique challenges. Despite her meticulous cleaning habits, Mellissa found air quality to be a problem.

“The dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and sneeze.”

There would still be dust, odors, and allergens in the space “even though I use 99% dust-free litter.” Mellissa explained. “It’s great compared to some I’ve tried, but the dust is crazy. The kittens will go in their litter box and make little sneezes.”

This poor air quality not only affected visitors but also had potential health implications for the kittens and Mellissa herself. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on animal’s dead skin, can cause year-round allergic reactions in both cats and humans, including sneezing, runny and itchy noses, watery eyes, and even rashes.

Components of pet dander can also act as an allergen, triggering similar reactions.

Determined to find a solution to her dust problem, she began her search for an air purifier that could meet the rescue’s unique needs.

Life changing air cleaning solution

Determined to tackle the persistent dust and allergens, Mellissa sought an air purifier that could truly meet the unique demands of her rescue. After years of frustration with a previous model, she knew she needed a solution that could handle constant activity, fine dust particles, and odors effectively.

Mellissa recalled, “The dust was still spreading throughout the house, and I thought, ‘this is just not enough.’”

That’s when Mellissa’s father suggested looking into IQAir’s HealthPro Plus XE. Intrigued by its reputation for advanced filtration capabilities, Mellissa decided to give it a try—and the results were immediate and noticeable.

The HealthPro Plus XE is equipped with HyperHEPA filtration, capable of capturing particles as small as 0.003 microns—100 times smaller than most air purifiers can filter. This efficiency, proven to remove particles far smaller than bacteria or viruses, combined with gas-phase filtration to eliminate odors, made it an ideal solution for the rescue’s air quality challenges.

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact,” Mellissa shared.

$\"\"$

The HealthPro Plus XE at work next to Leia the cat.

Not only did she see a dramatic improvement in the air quality for the kittens, but visitors also noticed the difference. The previously lingering food and litter odors were gone. “I definitely don’t smell that anymore,” Mellissa said. “I’m really impressed.”

“The kittens aren’t sneezing anymore. The air purifier has had a huge impact.”

When it comes to daily use, Mellissa has found a setup that works perfectly for the rescue’s needs. During cleaning, she runs the fan at its highest setting, ensuring dust and particles are quickly filtered out. For everyday operation, she adjusts the fan to levels 2 or 3, which run quietly enough not to disturb the kittens at night.

Looking ahead

For Mellissa, clean air ensures a brighter future for Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue. She intends to continue providing even more kittens with a safe haven before transitioning to loving homes.

The cleaner air and lack of odor in the rescue has already improved adoption visits, a critical step in finding forever homes for the kittens.

Mellissa emphasizes her desire to address the root cause of ownerless kittens—unspayed and neutered animals in the population. She hopes to get the word out to more pet owners about the crucial role of spaying and neutering their animals. As she warns, “the cat overpopulation is so crazy here. Spay and neuter your cats, spay and neuter your dogs to help lower those populations.”

Conclusion

Tiny but Mighty Kitten Rescue’s story underscores the profound difference clean air technology can make in transforming lives—both human and animal.

For Mellissa, investing in air purification wasn’t just about solving a nuisance; it was about creating a healthier, more inviting space where kittens could thrive and visitors could feel comfortable. By addressing the often-overlooked issue of air quality, she has set a powerful example for other rescues, shelters, and even individual pet owners facing similar challenges.

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