Air pollution is one of the most serious environmental health threats of our time. While outdoor air pollution rightly receives widespread concern, the dangers of indoor air pollution often go unnoticed, despite being just as harmful, if not more so. In Bangladesh, this silent threat affects millions of households every day.
A major source of indoor pollution is cooking fuel. In rural areas, many people still rely on wood, crop residue, or dung for cooking. These traditional fuels emit smoke and harmful gases, especially when used in poorly ventilated kitchens. Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory diseases, eye irritation, and even long-term heart and lung complications-particularly among women and children who spend more time near cooking areas.
Even in urban areas like Dhaka, where traditional stoves are less common, indoor air is not necessarily safe. Gas stoves without proper ventilation can release dangerous gases like carbon monoxide. In addition, indoor pollutants such as dust, mould, and chemicals from cleaning products, paints, furniture polish, and mosquito coils further degrade air quality. Poor indoor air also aggravates asthma and allergies, posing serious risks for elderly people and young children.
Addressing this issue requires both awareness and action. Households should be encouraged to use cleaner fuels like LPG, ensure proper ventilation, and install exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Simple habits such as regularly opening windows and avoiding overuse of chemical products can make a meaningful difference. Indoor plants and air purifiers can also help improve air quality. There is a need to raise public awareness about indoor air quality, especially in low-income and rural communities.
Protecting the air we breathe at home is essential for our health. These small but deliberate changes can make our living environments healthier and safer for all.
Amena Akter Farhana
Department of Economics
Government Titumir College
farhanaaktheramena@gmail.com
