Eco-Tip Challenge: Improve health and creativity, as well as ‘clear the air’, by bringing house plan
May 12, 2011 | by: Charlene Harper, PE, LEED AP
We all know that house plants remove CO2 and provide oxygen and humidity to the air through photosynthesis and transpiration, but did you know that they also remove significant amounts of air toxins? In 1989, NASA scientists did a study of 19 house plants which showed that they can remove up to 87% of benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene within 24 hours. These 3 toxins were studied due to their prevalence as indoor air pollutants: benzene is a solvent typically found in oils, paints, and cleaners, formaldehyde is often found in particle board and foam insulations, and trichloroethylene is common in paints, adhesives, inks and varnishes. Although the original point of the study was to find alternative ways to clean the air on space missions, the information is especially useful today. As buildings become more energy efficient and more tightly sealed, there is less opportunity for the toxins to leak out and fresh air to leak in (hence the importance of increased outdoor air ventilation!). Bringing in houseplants is a great way to ensure that you are breathing clean air.
Additionally, houseplants have been shown to lower blood pressure, improve creativity and make people happy!
By the way, NASA recommends that 15 – 18 house plants in 6” – 8” pots can keep the air clean in houses 2,000 sf or less.