Climate Knowledge

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is toxic to humans when inhaled. It is produced when fuels such as gasoline, wood, or natural gas are burned.

Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can be deadly, as it prevents the body’s cells from getting enough oxygen. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and chest pain. In severe cases, it can cause loss of consciousness or death.

People who are exposed to low levels of carbon monoxide over a long period of time may experience symptoms such as tiredness, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Children, the elderly, and people with heart or lung conditions may be more sensitive to the effects of carbon monoxide.

It is important to be aware of the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning and to take steps to prevent it. This includes properly maintaining fuel-burning appliances, using them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home. If you suspect that you or someone else may be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Looking for plastic-free alternatives of your favourite products? Then you are at the right price. We are going to review some great products of similar and even better quality with which you will truly be a climate hero.

Kicking it off with bamboo – great material for kitchenware and textiles.

Why we recommend products from bamboo?

Biodegradability
Bamboo is a biodegradable material, which means it can break down naturally and quickly without harming the environment. This makes it a much more environmentally friendly option than materials like plastic, which can take hundreds of years to decompose.

Sustainability
Bamboo is a highly sustainable material, as it is one of the fastest-growing plants in the world. It can grow up to three feet in just 24 hours and reaches maturity in just three to five years, making it a much more sustainable option than other materials like wood.

Durability
Despite being lightweight and flexible, bamboo is incredibly strong and durable. It is resistant to scratches, stains, and even water damage, making it a great material for a wide range of applications.

Versatility
Bamboo can be used to create a wide range of products, from furniture to clothing to utensils. Its versatility makes it a great alternative to other materials that may be less sustainable or durable.

Ammonia is a chemical compound that is composed of nitrogen and hydrogen. It is a colorless gas with a strong, pungent smell. Ammonia is found naturally in the environment and is also produced by humans for use in a variety of products, such as fertilizers and cleaning agents.

There are several sources of ammonia, both natural and human-made.

Some of the main sources of ammonia include:

• Agricultural activities Ammonia is used as a fertilizing agent in agriculture and is produced by the breakdown of organic matter in soil.
• Industrial processes: Ammonia is produced for use in the production of a variety of products, including plastics, textiles, and cleaning agents.
• Waste treatment: Ammonia is produced as a byproduct of the treatment of sewage and other organic waste materials.
• Natural sources: Ammonia is also produced naturally through the decomposition of organic matter, such as the breakdown of animal and plant material in the environment.Ammonia is also produced naturally through the decomposition of organic matter, such as the breakdown of animal and plant material in the environment.
• Vehicle emissions: Ammonia can also be released into the air as a result of vehicle emissions.

Impact on the environment

It is important to note that while some sources of ammonia are necessary and have beneficial uses, it is important to carefully manage the production and release of ammonia to minimize any potential negative impacts on human health and the environment.

At low levels, ammonia does not pose a significant health risk to humans. However, exposure to high levels of ammonia can be harmful to humans and may cause respiratory problems, throat irritation, and coughing. In severe cases, it can lead to lung damage or even death.

Ammonia is also toxic to many plants and animals, and it can have negative impacts on the environment if it is released into the air or water. Ammonia can react with other chemicals in the air to form fine particles, which can contribute to air pollution and may have negative impacts on human health.

It is important to use caution when handling products that contain ammonia, and to follow proper safety guidelines to avoid accidental exposure. If you are concerned about your exposure to ammonia, you should consult a healthcare professional for advice.

We also recommend:

Further sources:

[1] Pubchem

[2] European Environment Agency

Because of its effects on human health and the environment, tackling air pollution is now a top priority for organizations and companies globally. Most actions required can be found in institutional/ country policies, which are based on sound scientific research and provide a framework for individuals and businesses. We are presenting some examples from 3 global organizations.

The United Nations (UN)

The UN has introduced the so-called sustainable development goals:  

The idea behind them is to be implementable by all countries, independent of their resources and income. It is required to put in global efforts to tackle climate change and ensure a sustainable future for everyone. The goals are not only oriented towards the environment, but also equality at the workplace, social security, justice, health.

The World Health Organization (WHO)

Substantial work has been done to understand the effects of both outdoor and indoor (ambient) air pollution. Based on research, the WHO has managed to identify “healthy” ranges for most pollutants – and at what point they become dangerous. According to WHO, nowadays 9 out of 10 people breathe unhealthy air, with pollutant concentrations way above the acceptable ranges. Continuous policy making is still required to ensure better compliance and widespread understanding of the health effects of air pollution.

The European Commission

Europe has some of the strictest emissions policies for companies. Industries are required to measure their emissions, submit regular reports, and keep within certain ranges. In the EU, emissions are capped to a maximum. Companies can trade with their emissions allowance – so companies, who produce less emissions, can sell allowance to companies, who produce more emissions. The EU supports efforts to cut emissions by e.g. optimizing manufacturing processes, renewing and modernizing equipment, installing filters. There are however emissions that can’t be cut in this way, so companies are looking for ways to offset them. One way to do that is by investing in sustainable projects and getting certificates for them.

ЕС подкрепя усилията за намаляване на емисиите чрез оптимизиране на производствените процеси, модернизиране на оборудването и инсталиране на филтри. Въпреки това, съществуват емисии, които не могат да бъдат елиминирани по този начин, поради което компаниите търсят начини да ги компенсират. Един от подходите е инвестирането в устойчиви проекти и получаването на съответни сертификати.

The problem is that planting trees in Africa doesn’t make the air in e.g. Germany cleaner, does it? Even though this method works on paper and theory, practically the air quality locally, at the site of the manufacturing company, doesn’t improve and the negative effects of pollution are still there- affecting people’s health, crop production, water quality.

Don’t get us wrong, we do support the trading of emissions. We do believe however that more actions are required.

Sources:

1. https://www.un.org/en/sustainable-development-goals
2. https://www.who.int/health-topics/air-pollution#tab=tab_1
3. https://ec.europa.eu/clima/eu-action/eu-emissions-trading-system-eu-ets_en