Air Quality Overview

Air quality, both indoor and outdoor, is affected by the type of energy we use to power our businesses and the equipment and products we rely on in the workplace. Cleaning supplies, paint, adhesives or printer cartridges, for example, can release volatile organic compounds or other dangerous pollutants into the air. An energy-guzzling cooling system requires power plants to burn more coal for electricity, generating more air and global warming pollution. Older diesel trucks and equipment can emit more than ten times as much soot pollution as new models—and can usually be retrofit to be reduce their pollution before they are replaced. By reducing waste, purchasing energy-efficient and low-emission equipment and choosing products that minimize the release of harmful pollutants, your company can help reduce both indoor and outdoor air pollution.