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Research & Innovation
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Clean and bacteria-free objects and houses, fire-safe homes, indispensable electronics such as the TV, computers and coffee machines, protective and colorful clothing, well-insulated, design and chic interiors – these are conveniences without which modern and healthy living cannot be conceived. |
With the development of sophisticated analytical techniques, traces of particles or volatile substances entering in the composition of the products can be found in their immediate environment.
| Biological, chemical and behaviour-induced factors |
All closed or semi-closed living environments are characterised by different levels of what is called indoor air quality. There are many sources contributing to depreciated indoor air quality in any home. These can relate to biological, chemical and behaviour-induced factors, including:
- biological contaminants such as bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander and cat saliva, house dust mites, cockroaches, and pollen
- combustion sources such as oil, gas, kerosene, coal, wood and emission like fine particles and dust,
- tobacco smoke;
- building materials and furnishings as diverse as wall paper and IT equipment
- wet or damp carpets,
- products for household cleaning and maintenance, personal care, or hobbies;
- central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices; and
- outdoor air pollution
- radon emissions in certain EU regions.
It is estimated that people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. In parallel, diseases like asthma and allergies are increasing. It is also acknowledged that, from a scientific point of view, we still need to learn more about the link between health impacts and these various pollutants.
Specific activities have been therefore initiated at national and EU level with the aim of better understanding the contribution of the different sources to a harmful indoor air quality and the actual impact that they have on health, as part of the overall burden of disease. To reach this goal, indoor air was included in the European Commission Environment and Health Strategy and Action Plan (2004-2010).
| The chemical industry is committed to: |
- developing a better understanding of the scientific basis for the connection between the different contributors to indoor air quality and health effects (LRI research programme ),
- ensuring that its products continue to be used safely by consumers and keep contributing to high living standards and innovation.
Therefore, a Cefic-coordinated Indoor Air Group was constituted and engaged in addressing indoor air issue. Priority tasks include:
- dialogue and cooperation with the European institutions and other concerned stakeholders (i.e. participation in the newly created EU Working Group on Indoor Air), as well as
- improving the current standards for the adequate assessment of materials and products.
Cefic contact: Loredana Ghinea
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