Indoor air pollution refers to the introduction of toxic substances mainly from the use of domestic fuels into our families. Indoor air pollution has become a major global challenge more so in the sub-Saharan African countries where the cost of alternative fuels has ever been on the increase. Indoor pollution is also associated with poor sanitation in the environment. In highly industrialized countries like Japan the scenario is even complicated as most individuals are likely to suffer from related ailments like cancer, etc. indoor pollution is interestingly becoming a major area in research as different world agencies on health are drawing their attention to it. (Indoor and outdoor air pollution, 2009)
Indoor, pollution causes life-threatening ailments including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia, and other lower respiratory infections. It’s the responsibility of the world health organization to ensure that the world at large is informed on the latest development concerning these ailments. Indoor pollution and related conditions are a big burden to the already suffering world according to the reports of the world health organization that it’s the 8th most important risk factor and is perceived to contribute to 2.7% of the world’s burden of disease. (Indoor and outdoor air pollution, 2009)
Countries like Guatemala and Nepal should give priority to adopting the use of improved stoves, kerosene, and gas. These forms of fuel are not only environmentally friendly but are also cost-effective. The current global economic trend requires careful cost-benefit analysis so that one is not financially confused. Their government should also be on the forefront for championing the importance of sanitation and the dangers of a polluted environment. This should be adequately communicated to every citizen at all times. This should be done in conjunction with the world health organization as they are a ware that the energy system in most third world countries is inadequate so there should be an alternative that will be advantageous to both the poor and the rich. (Environmental protection agency, 2009)
The people of Guatemala are actually poor. Poverty has become one of the biggest global challenges to our economies. In poor countries there are so many humanitarian organizations going round to help improve the living conditions of the local individuals. These are mainly non-governmental organizations that are charitable that specializes in giving donations to the less fortunate. It would be more convenient to use these organizations to champion this idea of low cost sanitation.
Their responsibility will be to explain to the individuals the associated benefits and dangers of poor sanitation and to persuade them to adopt this idea in their daily endeavors in life. The only thing that may appear to be a stumbling block for the people of Nepal to invest into their low cost of sanitation is whether they can be able to get sufficient resource and the public attitude. These are people who are already with little income. Otherwise it would be very important to use other agencies to reach them. (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1989)
Conclusion
Indoor pollution is a big threat to the human health. Even though life has become so difficult especially in the third world countries, attention should be paid to the severally available alternatives for fuels. We are a ware that the major cause of indoor pollution is mainly our domestic methods of cooking. With the increasing cost of life the use of charcoal, coal and other related sources of fuel will remain common in the arena of many people. (Environmental protection agency, 2009)
List of references
Environmental protection agency, (2009), indoor air pollution. Web.
Indoor and outdoor air pollution, (2009). Web.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, (1989), Office of Air and Radiation. Report to Congress on Indoor Air Quality, Volume II: Assessment and Control of Indoor Air Pollution, pp. I, 4-14. EPA 400-1-89-001C.