Indoor and outdoor pollution is a significant environmental concern, largely influenced by our product choices. These choices affect the air, water, soil, flora, and fauna.
Exposure to a cocktail of chemicals found in household air and dust can have harmful effects on our health. Chemical exposures can have different reactions on people and can even elude doctors. Using products with zero or fewer toxic chemicals benefits all of us, especially those with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS).
The USA Environmental Protection Agency reports that indoor air can be ten times or more polluted than outdoor air, and continued exposure to chemicals can lead to disability. Over one million Canadians have been diagnosed with MCS (CCHS, 2020), a chronic condition triggered by exposures to substances commonly used in our living spaces.
Reading labels is essential for identifying all ingredients in a product and assessing their potential hazards. Certified organic products must clearly state their organic ingredients, ensuring they meet stringent environmental and health standards. It’s important to avoid harmful chemicals like parabens, which are petroleum-derived preservatives often linked to health risks, as well as endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol A (BPA) and its substitutes, which interfere with hormonal balance.
Altering normal hormone levels or changing the way hormones travel through the body can disrupt critical functions, leading to developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune problems in both humans and wildlife. These health concerns make it vital to avoid toxic substances in everyday products. Prioritizing safer, natural alternatives supports both personal health and environmental well-being. Using healthy, safe alternatives for daily living is key to preventing the development of conditions like MCS, ensuring long-term well-being while also supporting sustainable practices that protect both people and the environment.
For tips on how to achieve this, please refer to the following sections in our Eco Living guide:
