Air pollution can make popular pastimes, like playing sports, impossible.




Air pollution has imperiled major sports events everywhere from Canada to India, with spiking levels of contaminants like PM2.5 posing a risk to players. That’s in part why sports governing bodies have joined the push for cleaner air, including World Athletics, which sanctions track and field events. It has installed air quality sensors around stadiums to detect poor air quality, especially risky to runners.


You can detect poor air quality by observing physical symptoms like eye irritation and fatigue, noting visible issues like mold and dust, using air quality apps like AirNow or IQAir for outdoor and indoor readings, and installing an indoor air quality monitor to get real-time data on specific pollutants like particulate matter and VOCs. Checking your HVAC system for blockages or dirt can also reveal underlying issues.

Check Your Body's Symptoms

Pay attention to how you feel:

Allergy-like symptoms: Irritated eyes, nose, and throat can signal poor air quality.
Fatigue and headaches: These can be signs of pollutants in your indoor environment.
Respiratory issues: Exacerbated asthma or other lung conditions can be a sign of high levels of indoor pollutants.

Look for Visible Signs

Look for these indicators in your environment:

Visible mold growth: Mold can be found in hidden places and is a clear sign of poor indoor air quality.

Excess dust: A build-up of dust can indicate a problem with your ventilation system, like a clogged air filter.

Damp or musty odors: This often points to high humidity or the presence of mold.

Lingering odors: Strong odors from cooking, chemicals, or garbage that don't quickly dissipate can signify unhealthy air.

Use Digital Tools

Utilize technology to get data on air quality: AirNow App: The U.S. EPA's AirNow app provides real-time air quality data and forecasts for your area.

Indoor Air Quality Monitors: For detailed, real-time data in your home, use a smart monitor. These devices can detect pollutants like CO₂, radon, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), humidity, and temperature.

Third-Party Apps: Apps like IQAir and Plume Labs also provide air quality information.

Inspect Your Home's Systems
Inspect your HVAC system for potential issues:

Blocked vents: Check that air registers and vents are not obstructed.
Accumulated dirt: Look for dust and dirt around vents and ducts, which may mean the air filter needs changing.

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