Indoor Air Pollution From Cooking

Indoor air pollution from cooking is a serious problem in the developing world, especially for women and children. According to the World Health Organization, indoor air pollution causes one death every 20 seconds--1.6 million per year.

Causes

Indoor air pollution is the result of cooking with solid fuel, such as dung, wood and coal, in dwellings without chimneys or other proper ventilation systems.

Harmful to Children

Indoor air pollution more than doubles the risk of pneumonia in children under 5 years old. Pneumonia is the leading cause of death worldwide for this age group.

Risks to Adults

In adults, indoor air pollution can lead to increased risk for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, cataracts and lung cancer. Women are especially at risk because they spend more time in the home cooking.

Developed Countries

Indoor air pollution can be a problem for children and the elderly in developed countries, too. A study by the California Environmental Protection Agency found that even with modern gas and electric stoves, cooking causes unsafe levels of pollutants.

Solutions

Ways to decrease indoor air pollution include creating more fuel-efficient stoves and providing cleaner-burning fuel to people in developing countries.

References

• World Health Organization
• Blacksmith Institute
• California Environmental Protection Agency