According to the World Health Organisation, “[In 2019] 99% of the world’s population was living in places where the WHO air quality guidelines levels were not met.” The study concluded that, “Air pollution is one of the greatest environmental risks to health.”

However, outdoor pollution isn’t the only airborne risk to health. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranks indoor air pollution as one of the top five environmental dangers. Now more than ever, scientists and policymakers are taking indoor air quality as seriously as outdoor.

What Causes Indoor Air Pollution?

Sources of indoor air pollution include indoor energy used for lighting and cooking, personal care products, pesticides, household cleaners, and polluted air from outside that hasn’t been adequately cleaned and circulated, resulting in air contaminated with volatile organic compounds, radon, ozone, mould, dust, bacteria and particulate matter.

Indoor air pollution is exacerbated by climate change, which causes rising carbon dioxide, increased outdoor allergens and extreme weather events like wildfires. The effects of air pollution on health can be linked to asthma, heart diseases, cancer and other conditions. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated global interest in indoor air quality, as disease-free air became a matter of life and death for billions.

The Solution to Indoor Air Pollution at Sea

Because of their enclosed, contained nature, cruise and cargo ships, as well as yachts, are perfect environments for indoor air pollution to thrive. To maintain good indoor air quality on board, many vessels now use Pyure Dynamic Protection® systems, which have been a game-changer for the maritime industry.

Pyure leverages the disinfecting power of hydroxyls to keep onboard air and surfaces contaminant-free through continuous sanitation. Hydroxyls are naturally occurring molecules that cleanse our atmosphere of harmful substances and replace them with important organic compounds.

Pyure integrates directly into a vessel’s existing HVAC system, allowing hydroxyls to proactively and continuously disinfect ambient air, surfaces and fabrics.

How Effective is Pyure Dynamic Protection® in Reducing the Effects of Air Pollution?

• Eliminates up to 99.9999% of viruses, bacteria, mould, odour, and fumes in the air and on surfaces

• Reduces carbon emissions through higher recirculation and cleaner HVAC system

• Enhances the shelf life of food and produce onboard

• Lowers operational costs to achieve significant ROI

Ensuring food and water safety and preventing and mitigating disease outbreaks are key elements of public safety at sea. Today, it also includes ensuring healthy indoor air quality. We cannot change the quality of the air outside, but Pyure Dynamic Protection® can minimise indoor air pollution and promote good health on board any ship.

Learn more about Pyure air purification here.