Here are some practical tips to help renters live more sustainably without compromising comfort or convenience.

1. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

Many rental properties come with standard appliances, but these may not always be energy-efficient. If your landlord allows it, consider investing in eco-friendly alternatives like an energy-efficient fridge or washer. If replacing appliances isn’t feasible, focus on smaller energy-efficient devices like LED light bulbs, smart plugs, and low-flow showerheads.

Even small changes, like using a power strip to eliminate phantom energy use or washing clothes in cold water, can reduce energy consumption.

2. Be Smart About Heating and Cooling

Energy usage from heating and cooling is one of the biggest contributors to a household’s carbon footprint. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to minimize your impact. These practices aren’t just good for the environment – they can also lead to bigger savings on your utility bills.

• Use a programmable thermostat if possible, or manually adjust temperatures to save energy when you’re not home.
• Seal drafts with temporary weather stripping or draft stoppers.
• Use thermal curtains to keep indoor temperatures warm.
• Dress for the season instead of over-relying on your HVAC system.

3. Save Water

Water is one of our most precious resources and there are a few steps renters can take to use it wisely. Even the smallest steps can make a big difference over time.

• Fix leaky faucets or report them to your landlord as soon as possible.
• Install water-saving showerheads and faucet aerators. (These are inexpensive and easy to install without permanent modifications).
• Collect rainwater in a small container for indoor plant watering if you have access to outdoor space.
• Be mindful of how much water you’re using — turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or scrubbing dishes.

4. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

Implementing the “3 Rs” of sustainability — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle — will help you embrace that eco-friendly lifestyle. As a renter, there are several ways to adopt this principle.

• Reduce: Avoid single-use plastics by investing in reusable alternatives such as stainless steel water bottles, silicone food bags, and cloth grocery bags.
• Reuse: Give items a second life by purchasing pre-owned furniture, clothing, or décor. Platforms like thrift stores and online marketplaces make this easy.
• Recycle: Familiarize yourself with your local recycling rules and ensure you’re sorting materials correctly. If your building doesn’t have recycling facilities, advocate for their inclusion or find nearby drop-off centers.

5. Furnish Sustainably

Instead of buying brand-new furniture and decorations, consider shopping second-hand. Thrift stores, flea markets, and online platforms often offer high-quality items with plenty of life left in them. This not only reduces waste but also saves you money.

When purchasing new items, look for brands that prioritize sustainable materials, such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled metal.

6. Embrace Indoor Plants

Indoor plants do more than just make your home pretty — they also improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plants, and succulents are excellent choices for renters.

If you have enough space, you could even start a small herb garden on your windowsill to reduce your reliance on store-bought, packaged herbs.

7. Limit Waste with Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals and come in single-use plastic containers. Switch to sustainable alternatives like biodegradable cleaning solutions, reusable cleaning cloths, and concentrated cleaning tablets.

If you have some time, you can also make your own cleaning products using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.

These swaps won’t just reduce your environmental impact – they’ll create a healthier indoor environment by eliminating exposure to toxic chemicals.

8. Share Resources with Neighbors

Community living offers renters unique opportunities to share resources. For example, if you have a tool or appliance that you don’t use often, consider lending it to neighbors instead of letting it sit unused. Likewise, join neighborhood swap groups or borrowing networks to reduce unnecessary purchases. Building a sense of community can lead to resourceful and sustainable solutions for everyone involved.

You could go one step further and find a new property and roommates that align with your eco-friendly values. Use platforms like SpareRoom.com to find rooms for rent in Houston, New York, Boston, or anywhere else in the US.

9. Advocate for Sustainability in Your Rental

While renters may not have direct control over certain aspects of their property, you can always communicate with your landlord or property manager about sustainability improvements. Here are a few ideas to suggest:

• Installing solar panels or community-shared solar programs.
• Adding a composting station for the building or community.
• Upgrading to energy-efficient windows and appliances.

Even small updates, like adding bike racks to encourage cycling, can make a difference.

10. Choose Sustainable Transportation Options

If you live in the city, consider ditching your car. Walking, biking, or using public transport can lower your carbon footprint.

If you need a car, look into car-sharing services or hybrid and electric vehicles. Some cities even offer bike-sharing programs, making it easier to adopt sustainable transportation.

11. Be Mindful of Your Food Choices

Renters can also practice sustainability in the kitchen. Focus on reducing food waste by planning meals, storing food properly, and composting scraps (if allowed in your rental). Choose locally sourced or organic produce to reduce the environmental impact of food transportation and support eco-friendly farming practices.

Additionally, consider participating in a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program or shopping at farmers’ markets to further promote sustainable food systems.

12. Make Sustainable Lifestyle Choices

Sustainability goes beyond adjusting your space. Your daily habits can actually help you reduce your carbon footprint. Here are a few additional lifestyle tips.

• Buy in bulk to minimize packaging waste.
• Support businesses that prioritize sustainability.
• Donate unwanted items instead of throwing them away.
• Educate yourself and others about sustainable practices.

13. Spread the Word

Don’t underestimate the power of awareness. Share your sustainability practices with friends, family, and neighbors. Encourage them to adopt eco-friendly habits, and consider starting a sustainability group in your community. Collaboration and shared knowledge amplify the impact of individual efforts.

Final Thoughts

Sustainability is an ongoing journey, not a one-size-fits-all solution. As a renter, you might face some limitations, but there are countless creative ways to live more sustainably. From conserving energy and water to embracing second-hand goods and advocating for eco-friendly property upgrades, even the smallest of efforts can make a meaningful impact.

This blog post will explore how these durable and stylish window coverings can help regulate your home’s temperature, lower energy bills, and create a more comfortable living space.

What Is PVC Exterior Shutters?

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) exterior shutters are window coverings made from a durable, synthetic material designed to withstand outdoor conditions. It comes in various styles, including louvered, raised panel, board-and-batten, and shaker designs, allowing homeowners to match their exterior aesthetics. Composite PVC shutters are lightweight, easy to install, and available in a wide range of colors and finishes, including options that mimic the appearance of wood. This versatility makes them suitable for both traditional and modern homes. 

Enhancing Energy Efficiency with PVC Exterior Shutters

PVC exterior shutters enhance your home’s curb appeal and play a key role in improving energy efficiency. From providing insulation to reducing heat transfer, these shutters offer practical benefits that can help you save on energy costs. Here’s how PVC shutters can make a difference:

1. Insulation Against Temperature Extremes

One of the most critical benefits of PVC exterior shutters is their ability to act as an insulating layer over your windows. Windows are a common source of heat gain and loss, making them a weak point in maintaining indoor temperature. PVC shutters help mitigate this by providing a physical barrier that slows heat transfer.

In the summer, they block direct sunlight and prevent your home from overheating, ensuring that your air conditioning system doesn’t have to work overtime. During winter, they shield against cold winds and retain warmth inside the home, keeping heating requirements to a minimum. This dual functionality ensures year-round temperature regulation, making your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

2. Reduction in Cooling and Heating Costs

Energy costs can be a significant burden, especially in extreme climates. PVC shutters help alleviate this burden by reducing reliance on artificial cooling and heating. Naturally regulating indoor temperatures lowers the workload on HVAC systems, which translates directly into reduced energy consumption.

Over time, the savings on energy bills can be substantial, making these window shutters a worthwhile investment. Additionally, the energy efficiency they provide reduces your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

3. UV Ray Protection

Harmful UV rays can cause surprising damage to your home’s interior. Constant exposure to sunlight can fade furniture, carpets, and curtains, diminishing their longevity and aesthetic appeal. PVC shutters shield against UV radiation, filtering out these harmful rays while allowing natural light to illuminate your space.

This protection not only preserves the integrity of your home’s furnishings but also helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures, reducing the need for air conditioning. By safeguarding your interiors and managing heat, these shutters enhance energy efficiency and the lifespan of your home’s decor.

4. Durability and Low Maintenance

One of the standout features of PVC shutters is their durability. Unlike wood or other materials that can warp, crack, or rot under harsh weather conditions, PVC is designed to withstand extreme climates without losing functionality. This longevity ensures that your shutters continue to provide energy-saving benefits for many years with minimal upkeep.

The low maintenance required for PVC shutters also adds to their environmental appeal, as it reduces the need for frequent replacements and repairs. Their resilience against wear and tear means they remain effective in insulating and protecting your home, offering long-term energy efficiency.

5. Customization for Optimal Shading

PVC exterior shutters are available in various styles and designs, including louvered, raised panels, and board-and-batten options. This variety allows homeowners to customize their shutters for specific shading and ventilation needs. For example, louvered shutters can provide adjustable shading, enabling you to control the amount of sunlight entering your home.

Proper customization ensures that your shutters work harmoniously with your home’s orientation and climate, optimizing energy efficiency. The ability to tailor shutters to your home’s unique requirements means you can maximize their performance in reducing heat gain and loss.

6. Enhanced Window Seal

Air leaks around windows are a common issue that can undermine your home’s energy efficiency. PVC shutters, particularly those designed to close tightly, create a seal that minimizes drafts and prevents unwanted airflow. This enhanced window seal helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the strain on your heating and cooling systems.

By eliminating these inefficiencies, your home can achieve better energy performance, lowering utility bills and enhancing overall comfort. This simple yet effective feature demonstrates how PVC shutters can contribute to energy savings.

By choosing PVC exterior shutters, you’re proactively deciding to enhance your home’s energy efficiency while adding to its visual appeal.

Conclusion

PVC exterior shutters are more than just decorative accents. They offer a practical way to boost your home’s energy efficiency while enhancing its curb appeal. These shutters provide immediate comfort and long-term savings by helping regulate indoor temperatures and protecting against the elements.

1. Facilitating Accurate and Timely Diagnostics

One of the primary responsibilities of lab couriers is the transportation of medical specimens such as blood, urine, tissue samples, and swabs. These specimens are vital for diagnostic purposes, enabling healthcare providers to determine accurate diagnoses and initiate appropriate treatments.

Timeliness is essential in this context. For instance, in critical cases such as organ transplants, delays in transporting samples for matching or testing can have life-or-death consequences. Lab couriers operate under strict timelines to ensure that specimens arrive at laboratories in optimal condition, thereby safeguarding diagnostic accuracy and speeding up patient care.

2. Ensuring the Integrity of Transported Materials

Lab specimens and research materials are highly sensitive, requiring specific conditions during transport to maintain their integrity. Many biological specimens must be kept at controlled temperatures—either refrigerated or frozen—to prevent degradation.

Lab courier services are equipped with advanced transportation solutions such as insulated containers, temperature monitors, and real-time tracking systems. These tools help preserve the quality of the materials and provide clients with transparency regarding shipment conditions.

For researchers, the integrity of transported materials like DNA samples, chemicals, or cell cultures can directly impact the outcomes of experiments or clinical trials. Lab couriers’ adherence to strict handling protocols is critical in maintaining scientific validity.

3. Supporting Medical Research and Innovation

The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries rely heavily on lab courier services to support research and innovation. Clinical trials, for instance, require the regular shipment of patient samples to testing laboratories. Without efficient specimen transport, these trials could face delays, undermining efforts to bring new treatments and therapies to market.

Moreover, the transportation of experimental drugs, vaccines, and biologics to test sites is another key area where lab couriers play a role. Their ability to handle delicate and high-value shipments with precision makes them indispensable to the advancement of medical science.

4. Adapting to the Demands of Modern Healthcare

As healthcare continues to evolve, so too do the demands placed on lab courier services. The growing prevalence of at-home testing kits and telehealth has created a need for reliable specimen pickup services from patients’ homes. This shift requires lab couriers to expand their operations and accommodate new workflows.

Additionally, the global pandemic underscored the importance of efficient courier services for transporting COVID-19 test samples, vaccines, and related materials. Lab couriers were instrumental in ensuring widespread testing and vaccination efforts, highlighting their adaptability in times of crisis.

5. Overcoming Challenges in Lab Courier Services

Lab couriers face numerous challenges, from navigating regulatory requirements to addressing logistical hurdles. Strict compliance with healthcare regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is mandatory to ensure privacy and safety.

Logistical challenges, including unpredictable weather, traffic, and equipment malfunctions, also demand quick problem-solving skills. To address these issues, courier services rely on advanced routing technologies, backup systems, and well-trained personnel.

6. The Future of Lab Courier Services

The future of lab courier services lies in leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and reliability. Innovations such as drone deliveries, autonomous vehicles, and advanced tracking systems could revolutionize specimen transportation. These technologies promise to further reduce delivery times and improve access to testing and research materials in remote areas.

Additionally, as personalized medicine and genetic testing become more prevalent, the demand for specialized courier services will likely increase. Companies that can provide customized solutions for transporting sensitive and complex materials will be at the forefront of this evolving industry.

Conclusion

Lab courier services are the unsung heroes of modern healthcare and research, ensuring the timely and secure transportation of critical materials. By maintaining specimen integrity and supporting the logistics of medical innovation, these services play a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes and advancing scientific discovery.

As the healthcare landscape continues to change, lab couriers will remain indispensable, adapting to new challenges and driving progress in medical science and patient care. Their commitment to precision, safety, and reliability makes them a cornerstone of the modern healthcare ecosystem.

In this article, you will learn how ebb and flow hydroponics systems work, why it is suitable for home-based and business-based plant growers, and how to make it automated for easier plant growing.

What is Ebb and Flow Hydroponics System?

The ebb and flow method follows the same basic principle of hydroponics. The plant’s roots get their nutrients from water that’s been pre-mixed with nutrients. The water is in contact with the roots of the plants, but unlike NFT or DWC, this contact is scheduled.

In an ebb-and-flow system, the plants can be placed on a tray or inside pots. Then, for a pre-scheduled time, the tray floods with nutrient solution, soaking the roots. After that, the water drains back into a reservoir. Rinse and repeat – flood and drain – ebb and flow, all different names to the same method.

How Does Ebb and Flow Work?

As long as you follow this flood -> drain -> flood -> drain continuous cycle, your method will be considered ebb and flow.

1. Flood: The pump activates, pushing water from the reservoir into the grow tray, where your plants’ roots are.
2. Drain: The pump switches off, allowing the water to drain back into the reservoir. This drainage exposes the roots to air, providing the oxygen they need. You can also drain its waste which is less sustainable.
3. Cycle: This process cycles several times throughout the day, keeping a perfect balance between feeding and aerating the roots.

This flow works because it gives plants a perfect mix of water, nutrients, and oxygen, avoiding waterlogged roots, which can be a problem in other systems.

A Brief History of Ebb and Flow

The ebb and flow method goes back centuries—some say ancient civilizations like the Babylonians used similar techniques. It’s particularly popular for small-scale indoor growers, and for good reason—it’s efficient and easy to set up. Some say that this is the origin of the entire hydroponics method.

Different Types of Ebb and Flow Systems

There’s more than one way to build an ebb and flow system. Here are a few options to consider:

• Growace Scheduled Flood and Drain Systems: These systems come with timers to flood and drain at set intervals. Simple and effective.

• Autopot Mechanical Systems: A mechanical option that uses gravity-fed water and float valves, no pumps are required. 

• Grow Tray Systems with Pump: A hybrid approach where the tray’s pump pushes water through the system, acting like an NFT/DWC combo. Water drains slowly, leaving just enough behind to keep roots moist between cycles.

3 Main Advantages of Ebb and Flow

Ebb and flow is popular for a reason—it offers some key benefits over other systems:

1. Root Aeration: With the roots exposed to air between cycles, you avoid root rot and other water-related issues.
2. Watering Automation: The pump operates on a timer, so it’s pretty foolproof. Once it’s set up, you don’t have to worry about manually feeding your plants.
3. Less fails related to power outages: Even if the power cuts out, there’s always a little water left in the system to keep the roots from drying out, unlike systems like NFT that rely on constant water flow.

Automating Ebb and Flow Hydroponics

So we got into the main dish, how to automate the whole thing?

1. Set Up Watering Timer: You’ll need a system with a timer to schedule when your tray floods and drains. This is a basic feature on most ebb and flow setups, but make sure yours has it.
2. Add a Secondary Reservoir AKA Top-Off Tank: A second tank can hold pre-mixed nutrients, ready to refill the ebb and flow system when needed. This way, you won’t need to constantly check and top off.
3. Install Float Valves: A float valve ensures the reservoir refills automatically, preventing you from manually refilling it.
4. Add Growee: Here’s where things get easy. With Growee’s automation system, you can automatically monitor and adjust the pH and nutrient levels in your reservoir. Growee’s dosers balance your water perfectly, handling all the fine-tuning so you don’t have to. Set it up, and your system will automatically adjust pH and EC levels for optimal plant health.

With automation, growing becomes a whole lot easier. No more second-guessing. Healthier plants with way less effort means you’ve got more time to focus on the rest of your grow or even just kick back. The Growee system handles the nutrient dosing and pH adjustments for you, keeping your ebb and flow setup running smoothly. It’s simple, reliable, and pretty much foolproof—ideal for anyone wanting to streamline their hydroponics.

Wrapping It Up
Ebb and flow hydroponics is already a solid, low-maintenance setup, especially for small-scale growers. But throw in some automation, and you’ve got a game-changer. Why not give it a go? With the right tools, like Growee, and a bit of setup, you can sit back and let your plants thrive with minimal hassle. 

FAQ 

1. What is an Ebb and Flow Hydroponic System?

An ebb and flow hydroponic system is a grow method where water floods a tray of plants, providing nutrients, then drains back into a reservoir. This cycle repeats, giving the roots both nutrients and oxygen. It’s a popular method due to its simplicity and effectiveness, making it ideal for automation. 

2. How can I automate an Ebb and Flow system?

To automate an ebb and flow system, use a timer to control the flood and drain cycles. Add a secondary reservoir with a float valve to refill the system automatically. Growee’s automation system can monitor and adjust pH and nutrient levels, creating a fully automated hydroponics setup. 

3. What are the advantages of automating an Ebb and Flow system with Growee?

Automating an ebb and flow system with Growee saves time and ensures consistent automated nutrient dosing and pH control. Growee adjusts your system automatically, reducing errors and leading to healthier plants. The system also runs reliably even during power outages, offering peace of mind. 

4. Why is Ebb and Flow hydroponics good for small-scale growers?

Ebb and flow hydroponics is great for small-scale growers because it’s space-efficient, cost-effective, and easy to set up. When automated with Growee, it requires minimal maintenance, allowing you to grow with less manual work while maintaining optimal conditions for your plants. 

5. Can Growee be used to automate nutrient dosing in my Ebb and Flow setup?

Yes, Growee automates nutrient dosing in an ebb-and-flow system. Growee monitors pH and EC levels in real time and adjusts them automatically, ensuring your plants receive the correct nutrient mix. This leads to better plant growth without the risk of manual errors. 

6. What are the different types of Ebb and Flow systems I can automate?

You can automate various types of ebb and flow systems, including Growace scheduled flood and drain systems, Autopot mechanical systems, and grow tray systems with pumps. Each can be fully automated using timers, float valves, and Growee’s nutrient and pH control technology. 

7. How does the Growee system improve Ebb and Flow hydroponics?

Growee improves ebb and flow hydroponics by automating nutrient dosing and pH control. By continuously monitoring your system’s water quality, Growee makes precise adjustments, keeping your plants in the optimal range for growth. This reduces manual labor and boosts plant health. 

8. How do I set up a top-off tank for my Ebb and Flow system?

To set up a top-off tank for an ebb and flow system, add a secondary reservoir with pre-mixed nutrients. Connect it to your main reservoir with a float valve for automatic refills. Use Growee’s system to automate pH and nutrient adjustments, ensuring a fully automated hydroponic setup.

1. Start with a Sustainability Check

Ever wonder what your business’s impact really is? A sustainability audit takes a snapshot of what you are doing now. Look at energy use, waste, water usage, and even carbon footprint. From there, set clear goals: perhaps to reduce energy use by 20% in the next year. By monitoring these things from the very beginning, you create a baseline against which you can measure progress over time.

2. Ramp Up Energy Efficiency

The easiest way to help the environment is by reducing energy waste. Do little tasks to help: replace old lightbulbs with energy-saving LEDs. You would be surprised at how much of a difference this simple swap can make! If you’re ready to go big, consider renewable energy options like solar panels or wind energy. Yes, there’s an up-front cost, but it could lead to lowered bills – and possibly some nifty tax perks – later on. And don’t forget about smart systems: thermostats and lighting that automatically adjust while you’re away to save energy.

3. Get Serious About Cutting Waste

Another big win for the planet is waste reduction, and it’s really not that hard. Take a close look at single-use items and see if there’s any way you could switch over to reusables or biodegradables. Of course, there’s recycling, but make it easy: set out clear bins and post what can and can’t go in them. If you are still drowning in paper, maybe it is time to go digital. Cloud-based storage allows invoices, documents, and communications to be in the cloud rather than taking up space and wasting paper. Another benefit of cloud-based document storage management is that it ensures seamless security and speedy recovery in the event of a disast. There is also the question of shredded documents – as you should make that a part of your routine for data security reasons. But can you recycle shredded documents? Of course, you can! And if you don’t know how to do it yourself, take shredded paper to companies that will recycle it for you.

4. Source Materials Responsibly

It’s easy to overlook where your materials come from, but responsible sourcing can have a major impact. Partnering with eco-conscious suppliers and taking steps to green your supply chain will go a long way in enhancing your sustainability efforts.

Also, think local! Sourcing locally cuts down on transportation emissions and supports other businesses in your community. Whenever possible, look for materials that are recycled or sustainably produced.

For instance, if your business requires furniture, consider partnering with companies like churchchairsbycomfortek.com, which offers high-quality seating solutions designed with both comfort and environmental responsibility in mind.

5. Green Building with Your Team

Sustainability shouldn’t be solely a managerial decision but a corporate commitment. For instance, it would be easier for employees to be greener with incentives to bike to work or use public transportation. If possible, working from home would mean a large reduction in emissions due to transportation, but it would also be one way of showing flexibility in work arrangements. Similarly, simple steps like providing eco-friendly office supplies go a long way in reinforcing the green mindset.

6. Redesign Products and Packaging

When was the last time you reimagined your product’s packaging? If you still use multi-layers of plastic, it’s time to transition to recyclable or compostable materials. Think minimalistic; more often than not, less is indeed more. Design resilient products so they do not need incessant replacements, reducing the amount of waste emanating from circular economic activities. Consider adding, for products that eventually need to be disposed of, a program where customers can return items for recycling. It is a great method of engaging the customer while reducing waste.

7. Make Your Supply Chain Sustainable

It’s up to you to ensure that your pledge to sustainability doesn’t end at the door. Partnering with environmentally conscious vendors strengthens your commitment to going green. Let’s look now at logistics: Is there a way to reduce emissions? Think route optimization, effective packing, and fleet upgrades. Lastly, closely track sustainability metrics to ensure that all links in the supply chain are on course and find areas of improvement over time.

8. Bring Your Customers Along for the Ride

Going green is great, but making your customers ‘in the know’ is even better. Educate them on your sustainable initiatives and engage them by offering eco-friendly options or supporting your recycling programs. Many businesses implement a take-back system in which customers return old products to be disposed of or recycled appropriately. And remember, customers love feeling part of the change, so let them know how they can contribute.

9. Keep Improving, Share the Wins

Sustainability is the marathon, not the sprint. As you get better, shout about your wins! It keeps your business on track and informs customers and stakeholders alike that you are serious about making a difference in the world. Celebrate each milestone; if something works, really lean into it. Adaptation and evolution are keys to keeping this journey of sustainability in the right direction.

Wrapping It Up

Creating a more sustainable business does not happen overnight. Yet, every small step you take brings you closer to making an actual impact, not only about the environment but about the future of your business. Sustainability is not just about being “green” but smart, adaptative, and forward-looking. Ready to get started? The planet-and your customers-are waiting!

Humans are merely animals, just like any other species. We may be smarter than most, but we’re still flesh and blood, and our environment matters. We can only be healthy and content if everything around us is balanced.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of things that some of us live close to that can harm us. You need to be aware of the following environmental factors if you want to stay healthy and live a long, fulfilling life.

Asbestos

If you live within close proximity to an industry that utilized asbestos, it’s probably time for you to move. That’s because you don’t always know how well the cleanup crews are getting rid of the asbestos in your area.

Asbestos:

• Can cause certain cancers
• Was very common up till about 1980

For several decades, all sorts of industries used asbestos, especially construction. Asbestos makes great insulation since it is water, heat, and flame resistant. It’s also inexpensive to produce.

It wasn’t until years later that doctors began to realize how dangerous it is. The real problems start when you break it up and begin inhaling the particulate matter.

If you know that you live near an industry that used asbestos, then at the very least, you should look into how they’re disposing of any of it that remains. If there’s any chance of exposure, then you should move away from there without delay.

Water Pollution

A few years ago, news about Flint, Michigan, shocked the public. The water there was making everyone sick. That’s hardly the only place that has had these issues, though.

You should look into the water quality where you live. Check for contaminants like:

• Lead
• Aluminum
• Copper
• Chromium

Elsewhere, you might also deal with barium, arsenic, or cadmium. None of that is good for you, and even trace amounts can make you ill over time. It’s even worse if you’re trying to raise kids around it.

You might buy bottled water to drink, but presumably, you’re also brushing your teeth and bathing in the local water. If you’re concerned, then look into your part of the country’s water purity levels. If things are awful and you don’t think that they’ll improve, you might move because of that.

Air Quality

Air pollution can be just as lethal as water pollution. If you have a condition like asthma, or others in your family do, you should have even more concern.

Some cities commonly have smog alerts. Los Angeles and some other West Coast cities deal with it, even though LA is not as bad as it once was.

If you reside in a heavily industrialized area, then you should think about these things and do some research. You might have to look for a city or state that’s more rural, where this won’t be as much of a problem.

Soil Quality

Your soil quality is also something about which you should learn. Many people like to purchase locally-grown fruits and veggies. In general, it’s a fine thing to do, as you are supporting local farmers.

However, those items might not be so good for you if they’re grown in poor-quality soil. Some farmers still try to get away with spraying their crops with pesticides or spreading it through groundwater. It allows plants to grow while keeping pests away.

If you ingest enough of it, though, it can make you very sick. If you visit farmer’s markets or anywhere else that sells local produce, you can ask them what chemicals they use.

Urban Sprawl

Urban sprawl is a term that people sometimes use when talking about deforestation and humans spreading out as population increases. There’s no stopping progress, but living in densely populated areas can also harm you.

You may experience depression or anxiety if you’re living too close to other people. Think about a city like New York, with more than eight million individuals packed into just a few square miles. It’s no wonder that some people can’t deal with the claustrophobia, and they eventually feel like they have to leave.

You can avoid the urban sprawl by moving to a less populated area. You don’t have to completely move to the country if that doesn’t appeal to you. You can look for a community where the homes are further apart from each other, and you can breathe a bit easier.

Be sure to monitor these and other environmental factors. Only that way can you feel healthy and safe as you go through your daily life.

This February, thousands of patients, advocates and specialists are celebrating National Cancer Prevention Month. The months aims to highlight simple lifestyle adjustments that can help safeguard health and prevent the development of different forms of cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), roughly 30 to 50 percent of all cancer diagnoses are actually preventable. However, some individuals are unaware of the different ways to protect themselves and their families.

An easy place to begin prevention is in the home and workplace. Americans spend approximately 87 percent of time indoors and six percent inside a vehicle. Considering the amount of time spent breathing the air at the office or in the home, the air quality of these spaces should be thoroughly inspected. Three often forgotten indoor toxins impacting health include, formaldehyde, asbestos and radon. 

Formaldehyde is a flammable chemical commonly used in building materials and household products. It is colorless with a strong odor. The chemical is produced both industrially and naturally – through the decaying of plant material in the soil and normal chemical processes completed by living organisms. Exposure occurs primarily through the inhalation of formaldehyde gas or vapor, however, liquid formaldehyde can be absorbed through the skin. Potential sources of exposure include pressed-wood products, tobacco smoke, automobile emissions, gas stoves, wood burning stoves, kerosene heaters.

Formaldehyde can cause irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat. High levels of formaldehyde may even cause cancer. To decrease exposure, The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using “exterior-grade” pressed-wood products, increasing ventilation, and maintaining moderate temperatures within the home and office.

Another toxin to say mindful of is asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral which was commonly used prior to the 1970’s. The material can be found across a variety of industries, ranging from construction to consumer products. At one point, asbestos was known as a “miracle” material for its strong resistance to heat, electricity and fire. Because asbestos use was so prevalent, it can still be found in homes built before 1980 and items currently in production. Although heavily regulated, asbestos is still legal and regularly imported into the United States. Potential sources of exposure include cements, automotive materials, cement pipes, flooring & tiles, roofing & shingles and more.

Asbestos becomes dangerous when the particles are released into the air. Once inhaled, the asbestos fibers can embed themselves in the lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen where mesothelioma cancer may develop. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of the disease, accounting for roughly 70 to 80 percent of new diagnoses. Symptoms most often include chest pain, persistent coughing, shortness of breath, and fluid around the lungs. There is currently no cure for mesothelioma cancer, but early detection does improve life expectancy.

You can prevent exposure to asbestos, and the likelihood of contracting mesothelioma by staying mindful and limiting exposure to asbestos materials. If you find that your home does have asbestos, it is in your best interest to have it inspected by a licensed professional.

An additional toxin that is also no stranger to the home is radon. The radioactive gas forms naturally in the environment when the uranium in rocks, soil and water breakdown. The toxin is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas which travels from the ground and diffuses into the air, often finding its way into homes through the cracks in the floor or foundation.

Testing is the only way to determine if there are unhealthy levels of radon present in the home or office. The World Health Organization recommends taking action if levels exceed 100 becquerels (Bq), or 2.7 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Radon levels in homes can be reduced by: increasing under-floor ventilation, installing a radon sump system in the basement or under a solid floor, avoiding the passage of radon from the basement into living rooms, sealing floors and walls and improving the ventilation of the house.

If radon gas is inhaled the particles can damage the cells that line the lungs. Radon exposure is the second overall leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, right behind cigarette smoking. It is estimated that there are 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. annually as a result of radon exposure. 

According to the EPA, the average person takes between 17,280 and 23,040 breaths a day, exposing themselves to potential air pollution and lung risk with each inhale. In light of National Cancer Prevention Month this February, take a moment to examine the air quality within the home and workplace to safeguard health and prevent cancer. Action now can prevent necessary reaction in the future.