In the face of increasing global environmental concerns, air quality remains a paramount issue, both outdoors and inside our homes and offices. Recent studies by the Environmental Protection Agency suggest that indoor air pollutants are often two to five times higher than outdoor levels. These indoor air contaminants can lead to a host of health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, and even chronic diseases such as cancer. Thankfully, research shows that nature might offer a solution to this mounting problem.
Plant-Powered Air Purification
A team of scientists at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in Australia recently published a fascinating study on the potential of indoor plants to purify the air. The research, funded by plant-scaping company Ambius, discovered that certain plants within a vertical wall system were capable of absorbing harmful compounds found in petrol vapors. These toxins, known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs, are often present in public spaces such as offices, hospitals, and classrooms.
During an average workday, the experimental setup demonstrated that the plants could reduce the concentration of several notorious carcinogenic compounds to less than 20% of their original levels. The implications of this discovery for improving indoor air quality are immense, potentially offering an eco-friendly alternative to energy-intensive ventilation systems.
Assessing the Efficacy of Plant ‘Purifiers’
Although similar research has previously been conducted on the ability of plants to absorb VOCs, most studies assessed the removal of single chemical species under controlled conditions. In contrast, the UTS team exposed common household plants to petrol vapors, a significant source of mixed VOCs. The plants used in this study included Devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum), Arrowhead plants (Syngonium podophyllum), and Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum).
What sets this study apart is the effectiveness and speed with which these plants were able to purify the air. As UTS environmental scientist Fraser Torpy explains, “Not only can plants remove the majority of pollutants from the air in a matter of hours, they remove the most harmful petrol-related pollutants from the air most efficiently.”
Implications for Indoor Air Quality
The potential for vertical gardens to improve indoor air quality is significant, especially in urban areas where indoor pollution from attached parking garages is a concern. The researchers found that the more concentrated the toxins in the air, the faster and more efficient the plants became at removing the toxins, demonstrating that plants adapt to the conditions they’re growing in.
However, it’s important to understand the limitations of this method. While these vertical greening systems are effective, they require a considerable number of potted plants, rigged up to air pumps, to make a significant difference in indoor air quality. A small, standalone collection of plants is unlikely to have the same impact. Despite this, even a few indoor plants can boost mood and contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
Future of Green Wall Technologies
The pandemic has highlighted the importance of indoor air quality on a global scale. As a result, commercial interest in green wall technologies is likely to increase. However, as pointed out by Torpy and his co-authors, more research is needed to fully understand the potential of plants as air purifiers. This includes studying the long-term effects of pollutants on soil microbes and whether plants reach a saturation point. Future research could also evaluate the efficacy of various plant types and air filters, and how these factors influence indoor air quality.
Furthermore, the researchers expressed interest in exploring the plants’ ability to absorb chemicals off-gassed from synthetic materials. These are the kinds of compounds that give your car its “new-car smell,” which, despite its initial appeal, can be a significant source of indoor pollution. The current study did not measure this aspect, but it could be a fruitful area for future investigation.
Broader Health Implications of Improved Indoor Air Quality
The benefits of improved air quality are myriad. By reducing airborne contaminants, especially highly carcinogenic benzene compounds, we can mitigate several health risks. Chronic exposure to these pollutants has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing cancers, including leukemia, as documented by the National Cancer Institute.
Furthermore, cleaner air can have a positive impact on respiratory health. Conditions like asthma, allergies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be exacerbated by poor indoor air quality. Research published in the Journal of Environmental Management and the Science of The Total Environment has documented these connections, underlining the vital role of air quality in our overall health.
It is worth noting that these benefits aren’t limited to physical health alone. Improved air quality can also positively affect mental health. Studies have linked exposure to air pollution with increased stress levels, depression, and cognitive decline. Therefore, any efforts to improve indoor air quality could have wide-reaching implications for our health and wellbeing.
The Green Future of Indoor Spaces
While our understanding of the potential for indoor plants to improve air quality continues to evolve, the promise shown in studies like the UTS research offers a hopeful glimpse into the future. As Torpy and his team concluded, only through continued investigation will we fully understand how to most effectively utilize plants in our quest for cleaner indoor air.
The full UTS report can be found online.
The recent findings shed light on a promising eco-friendly, cost-effective solution to reduce indoor air pollution. By harnessing the air-purifying abilities of common houseplants and implementing green wall technologies, we can significantly improve the quality of the air we breathe indoors, bringing us one step closer to a healthier and more sustainable future.
Pet Safety and Indoor Plants
While indoor plants can greatly contribute to improved air quality and overall well-being, it’s essential to consider our furry friends’ safety. Certain houseplants can pose risks to pets if ingested or even touched. The three plants highlighted in the UTS study – Devil’s ivy, Arrowhead plants, and Spider plants – each have varying levels of safety for pets.
1. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
Commonly known as Pothos, Devil’s Ivy is indeed toxic to both cats and dogs. According to the ASPCA, ingestion can cause oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
2. Arrowhead plants (Syngonium podophyllum)
Arrowhead plants are also harmful to pets. If ingested, these plants can cause similar symptoms as the Devil’s Ivy, including oral irritation, excessive drooling, and vomiting. The ASPCA lists the Arrowhead plant as toxic to dogs, cats, and even horses.
3. Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum)
On a brighter note, Spider plants are generally considered safe for pets. As per the ASPCA, they are non-toxic to both dogs and cats. Despite their safety, it’s still best to prevent pets from chewing on these plants, as it can lead to mild digestive upset.
Remember, always consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful plant. Although indoor plants offer many benefits, it’s crucial to ensure that they’re compatible with all members of your household, including our four-legged companions.
