Article credits – Gulf News. Published: April 05, 2019, 16:34
Poor Air Quality
To protect our planet for the benefit of future generations, the time to act is now.
Almost by the day, new research, studies, and scientific findings emerge that ought to offer enough evidence that, collectively, we are doing long-term irreparable damage to our environment. As present-day stewards of this green planet, our actions and inaction are harming it for generations to come.
The annual State of Global Air report, published on Wednesday, should serve as a clarion call that we must act urgently to improve the quality of our air.
Why Improve the Quality of Our Air?
Because lives literally depend on it, and the young are most vulnerable. Simply put, the life expectancy of children born today will be shortened by 20 months on average by simply inhaling the toxic air that is widespread across the globe.
Poor air quality was responsible for one in 10 early deaths in 2017 alone, according to the study. And things certainly haven’t improved since then. Here, between the Middle East and South Asia, the issue of poor air quality is acute. It’s a bigger killer than malaria and road traffic accidents and is almost akin to the death rates resulting from smoking.
Impact of Air Quality in Saharan Africa
In sub-Saharan Africa, every new person born today will likely live 24 months less than expected, and poor air quality, caused by traffic, industrial emissions, poor indoor air, and smoke from cooking fires, is to blame.
But poor air quality does not discriminate against the young. No. Older adults are at risk when air quality plummets, with one in ten deaths now attributable to the air filling their lungs. Simply put, poor air is a leading factor in 41 per cent of deaths attributable to chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, 20 per cent from type 2 diabetes, 19 per cent from lung cancer, 16 per cent of heart diseases, and 11 per cent of strokes.
Here in the UAE, the government is taking action. Officials have focused on expanding renewable energy sources and are taking measures to ensure that the vehicles on our roads are cleaner and greener. That’s an example that needs to be followed by others.
In bigger countries like India, where choking air quality regular exceeds safe limits in large cities, more needs to be done to ensure that people have the proper means to prepare their meals, have the access to cleaner public transport, and that the factories and plants powering the country’s growth are clean and green. And that needs to be an election issue for all.
FAQ
1. What are the main causes of poor indoor air quality in the UAE?
Indoor air quality (IAQ) issues in the UAE are commonly caused by AC duct contamination, high humidity leading to mold growth, construction dust, VOCs from furniture and cleaning products, and poor ventilation. In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, sealed buildings make indoor pollution worse than outdoor air. Professional IAQ testing can identify hidden pollutants and help you fix them effectively.
2. How do I know if my home or office has poor air quality?
Common signs include persistent allergies, headaches, fatigue, unpleasant odors, visible mold, or excessive dust buildup. If occupants frequently experience respiratory discomfort indoors but feel better outside, it’s a strong indicator of poor IAQ. A certified indoor air quality assessment provides accurate data and actionable solutions.
3. How does poor air quality impact health and productivity?
Poor air quality is linked to respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and reduced cognitive performance. Studies show it contributes to major health risks, including lung disease and stroke, while also lowering workplace productivity due to fatigue and poor concentration. In commercial spaces, this directly affects employee performance and absenteeism.
4. What is the best way to improve indoor air quality in UAE buildings?
Improving IAQ requires a combination of AC duct cleaning, proper ventilation, humidity control, air purification systems, and continuous monitoring. In the UAE’s climate, mold prevention and HVAC maintenance are critical. A professional IAQ solution provider can design a customized plan based on your building conditions.
5. Do I need professional indoor air quality testing in Dubai, or can I fix it myself?
Basic steps like cleaning and ventilation help, but they don’t detect hidden pollutants such as mold spores, bacteria, or fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Professional IAQ testing uses specialized equipment to measure pollutants accurately and recommend targeted solutions. This is especially important for offices, schools, healthcare facilities, and residential buildings with recurring air quality issues.
