Why is indoor pollution still such a large problem in developed nations? What are the most dangerous indoor pollutants in developing and developed nations?
What will be an ideal response?
Indoor air pollution was not recognized as a problem until fairly recently. The 1970 U.S. Clean Air Act did not even mention indoor air pollution; rather, indoor spaces were assumed to be safe havens from outdoor pollution. Even smoke from indoor fires was viewed merely as a nuisance, in the absence of data showing it to cause health problems. Furthermore, actions to seal buildings to improve energy efficiency have resulted in decreased ventilation of indoor air pollutants to the outdoors. Some of the biggest indoor air pollution problems come from dust, dander, and mites, as well as toxins given off by furniture and rugs. The two most dangerous indoor pollutants in developed nations are cigarette smoke and radon, but VOCs and microorganisms also play significant roles. In developing nations, the biggest problems are soot and carbon monoxide resulting from burning fuelwood. The UN's WHO estimates that 5% of all deaths in developing nations are attributed to these factors.
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