Health and Well-being

Air quality significantly impacts our health and well-being, with children, the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions being the most susceptible. Poor air quality, both outdoors and indoors, can lead to serious health issues.

Understanding the Risks

Understanding these impacts and learning how to improve air quality in our communities and homes is essential.

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Outdoor Air Quality in South Africa; A pressing concern

Significant Health Impacts

Exposure to air pollution can lead to significant health problems, it is said to be the 8th leading risk factor of premature birth, low birth weight, asthma, and lung diseases, which are particularly harmful to newborns and young children.

More than 3,365 children under the age of five in South Africa lost their lives to air pollution-related causes in 2021. — SoGA report1

  1. The State of Global Air (SoGA), Fifth edition, 2021. report ↩︎

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Health Impacts of Outdoor Air Pollution

1. Respiratory Issues

Exposure to pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5) can cause asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases.

2. Cardiovascular Problems

Long-term exposure increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Community Actions to Improve Outdoor Air Quality

Reduce Vehicle Emissions

  • Carpooling
  • Public Transportation

Limit Open Burning

  • Avoid burning waste materials.

Plant Trees

  • Trees absorb pollutants and produce oxygen.

Indoor Air Quality: A Hidden Threat

Are you a homebody? If so, this one’s for you!

Did you know most people spend up to 90% of their time indoors? That makes indoor air quality just as crucial as what’s happening outside. Poor indoor air can lead to health issues such as allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions.
So, here’s the deal:
Taking care of your living space isn’t just about keeping it tidy—it’s about ensuring the air you breathe is clean and healthy.

Small changes can make a big difference for your well-being! Your home, your air, your health—make it count!

Common Indoor Pollutants

  • Dust and Pet Dander
  • Mold and Mildew
  • Smoke from Cooking or Tobacco
  • Chemical Fumes from Cleaning Products

Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality

  1. Ensure Proper Ventilation - Open windows and doors when weather permits. Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
  2. Maintain Cleanliness - Regularly dust and vacuum. Wash bedding weekly.
  3. Use Air Purifiers - Invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters.
  4. Avoid Indoor Smoking - Prohibit smoking inside the home.
  5. Control Humidity Levels - Use dehumidifiers to prevent mold growth. Fix leaks promptly.