The new report builds on previous research by the same research group. One study also detected benzene and other harmful air pollutants in unburned gas samples collected from homes in the Boston metropolitan area. In another study conducted in California, Dr. Lebel found that gas stoves still leak significant amounts of methane even when turned off.
In the latest study, researchers combined the leak findings with new measurements of benzene in unburned gases to model potential indoor benzene concentration levels. They found that in some of the worst cases, concentrations from gas connections were similar to those found in homes with smokers.
There are several factors that affect indoor benzene levels, including ventilation quality and kitchen size. However, the study found benzene in the unburned gas, suggesting that “simply opening a window or using a range hood while the stove is on” does not eliminate the risk. said Kelsey Bilsback, senior scientist at PSE Healthy Energy.
In states such as California and Massachusetts, environmentalists and local officials are phasing out gas appliances in favor of electrical appliances, largely because of the emissions impact of burning fossil fuels such as natural gas. We are increasingly promoting the abolition ofHouses and buildings are directly responsible about 13 percent Of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, it is mainly from gases burned in stoves, ovens, water heaters and furnaces.
Methane, the main component of natural gas, particularly powerful greenhouse gas. In 20 years, the same amount of carbon dioxide can warm the earth more than 80 times if released into the atmosphere without burning.
New research shows that “health and climate go hand in hand,” says Drew Michanowicz, senior scientist at PSE Healthy Energy. While it may not be feasible or affordable for some homeowners to make the switch soon, an energy policy offering tax credits and appliance rebates is a step in the right direction. He said.
Outside of smoking, “most of the major sources of benzene in our lives are associated with fossil fuels,” said Rob Jackson, a geoscientist at Stanford University who contributed to the study. These sources include automobile exhaust, gasoline, and petrochemicals (plastics, rubber, detergents, etc.).