Increasingly polluted homes

• Modern building insulation is one of the causes of the increase in indoor air pollution. On average, it is 8 times more polluted than outside air!

• Polluted household air

  The air in our homes is often much more polluted than the air outside: on average, 8 times more. This is a very alarming problem since we spend up to 90% of our time indoors!

  According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 4.3 million premature deaths are caused by this kind of pollution every year.

  Many possible sources of pollution

  There are many elements that can emit into our indoor air. Our daily activities —such as heating, cooking, cleaning, etc.—can emit substances like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fine particles, etc. In addition, building materials (for insulation, for example) and furniture can emit on a permanent basis; just like paints, lacquers and varnishes used to decorate the walls of our homes, which can continue to release substances even long after they have been applied.  Some volatile substances are very harmful, such as formaldehyde, a known carcinogen recognised by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer).

  And many others!

  Insulation contributes to poor indoor air quality

  This invisible pollution has been increasing for several decades due to widespread home insulation. Indeed, by insulating our buildings to gain in thermal efficiency, we make our houses airtight; as we reduce natural ventilation, pollutants cannot be dispersed by air circulation.

  A polluted indoor environment particularly affects children, the elderly and people with respiratory and heart diseases.

  Take action to protect indoor air

  Nowadays, we can't afford to avoid building insulation. That is why it is essential to take measures to promote indoor air pollutants dispersion. There are several possible solutions that may be combined, such as ventilation systems, air purifiers and low-emission products.

  Tackling the source of the emissions

  It is crucial to limit the emissions into indoor air. Easy daily actions can help you improve your Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), as explained in our article "10 tips to preserve your home’s air quality".

  Choosing low-emission products is now possible (and very simple) thanks to the “Air Label Score” certification. Its clear rating allows you to identify at a glance  products emitting the least into your home. Find here all the certified products.

• Sources: La Fédération Française du bâtiment , Wallonia Public Service  - Environnement , Agence Wallonne de l'Air et du Climat , l'ONE (Office de la Naissance et de l'Enfance).