Can climate change impact indoor air quality?

Indoor air quality isn't just a matter of filtering out pollutants. A new white paper from Blueair suggests that climate change is presenting new challenges for homeowners.

Given the increasing prevalence of extreme weather events (such as heat waves, droughts and wildfires), greenhouse gases, allergens and pollution are also on the rise.

The paper points to scientific evidence that details an increase in the number of cases of infectious, respiratory, and cardiovascular diseases resulting from climate change.

Some advice to counteract these changes is also included. For instance:

- If possible, wait with your outdoor activity until the air is cleaner.

- Reduce your activity level (for example, go for a walk instead of a jog).

- Breathe through your nose, not through your mouth. Breathing through your nose uses your body’s four-stage filtration system.

- Move your exercise inside.

- Use air purifiers to reduce indoor air pollutants.