Credit: Ellen Harding-Smith et al.
University of York researchers have discovered that fragranced cleaning products marketed as “green” could potentially release as many harmful chemicals as regular products. The findings underscore the need for stricter regulations and consumer guidance regarding household cleaning products.
Cleaning products emit numerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some of which are hazardous or can generate harmful secondary pollutants after undergoing chemical transformation. In the study, published in Environmental Science: Processes & Impact, researchers analyzed the VOC composition of 10 regular household cleaning products and 13 green cleaning products.
During analysis, researchers discovered that the fragrances used in the “green” products lead to an increase in emitted monoterpenes when compared with their regular counterparts. Monoterpenes can increase the concentration of harmful secondary pollutants such as formaldehyde and peroxyacyl nitrates. As concentrations of these pollutants increase, susceptible people can develop irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, or skin, as well as difficulting breathing. Additionally, repeated exposure to formaldehyde can lead to cancer.
"Our research found there is no strong evidence to suggest that clean green products are better for indoor air quality compared to regular products," said Ellen Harding-Smith, Environmental Chemistry researcher from the Department of Environment & Geography. "In fact, there was very little difference. Many consumers are being misled by the marketing of these products, which could be damaging the air quality in their homes as a result—potentially putting their health at risk. For so many products on the supermarket shelves, green doesn't mean clean."
"Manufacturers really need to be so much clearer about what's in these products and make clear how to mitigate their harm. For example, just improving ventilation and opening windows when using these cleaning products makes air quality at home so much better," Harding-Smith added.
With “green” cleaners gaining popularity worldwide due to the assumption that they are better for our health and environment, stricter regulation will become paramount to maintaining indoor air quality.