The study, led by researchers at the University of Surrey, evaluated the negative effects of indoor pollution. The results could help to monitor and avoid these harmful effects.

When mention about air pollution, of course we will think about exhaust gases from cars and factories. But a variety of pollution sources can make a bad impact on air quality. There are also a lot of pollution sources in the offices and homes, such as paints, varnishes, kitchen lampblack and fungal spores. Sometimes, the air indoors is even worse than outdoors.

In 2012, 4.3 million deaths in the world were associated with indoor air pollution, while outdoor air pollution was associated with 3.7 million. For city people, the vast majority of time is spent indoors. This is related to Sick Building Syndrome, a condition in which patients develop many symptoms associated with breathing indoor air. The disease can lead to respiratory disorder and even abnormal cognitive function.

If we can better monitor indoor air pollution, we will know where and when the pollution is the most serious. We can then search for solutions to make the air better. Sometimes, opening a window can be a simple and effective way to improve air quality, but timing is very important.

In order to gather real-time date of air pollutant levels, the research group used small, low-energy monitoring senors in the study. Their study emphasized that it is essential to ensure buildings are built with indoor pollution monitoring. This is an effective way to improve human health.

The findings have various implications for town planning and we should consider whether we really want schools, offices or hospitals to be built within these environments. A combination of policy and technology will help ensure that when we are hard at work the buildings are also working to protect us from harmful pollutants, which influence both body and mind.