NASA’s Secret Weapon

June 30th, 2008. Filed under: Monday's Musings.

Did you know that your indoor air can be more polluted than the air outside your home or work place? The Environmental Protection Agency says it often is.  We work hard to make sure our houses are tightly sealed to keep the cold air out and the warm air in or vice versa in the summer.  It is because of this and the fact that our homes contain a larger percentage of synthetic materials and products that our indoor air has become so polluted.

NASA’s secret weapon can help eliminate this pollution.  In the early 80’s, NASA researched the ability of plants to remove chemicals from the air.  Study results showed that houseplants metabolized the chemicals such as benzene, ammonia and formaldehyde and used them as sources of food and energy.  Of course, one lonely houseplant won’t do the job.  Make a nice little haven of greenery in your house or at work.  You also need to make sure your home is well ventilated, keep down the humidity and use fewer chemicals.

Choose your plants carefully as some prefer low light and others prefer direct sunlight.  The Encyclopedia of House Plants lists over 300 plants with descriptions and photos.  You will also find instructions on the care of these plants.  Bring the outside in and clean your air while enjoying the “greening” of your home.

1 Response to NASA’s Secret Weapon

  1. sunnyislandbreezes.com » Blog Archive » Plant Happy

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