Condensation Causes Mould: Understanding the Impact on Metal Roofs
Condensation Causes Mould In this post, we’ll be exploring how condensation causes mould. Condensation is a common phenomenon that occurs when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, leading to the formation of water droplets. While condensation can affect...Health Impact of Plastics on Health
The Impact of Plastics on Our Health & The Environment
Plastics have become an integral part of our daily lives, but their effects on our health and the environment are becoming more and more apparent. In this post, we’ll delve into some of the issues posed by the widespread use of plastic, on human health and on our planet.
We’ll explore topics such as microplastics, plastic pollution, and the chemicals found in plastics that can disrupt our endocrine system.
The Effects of Microplastics
Microplastics are small plastic particles that are less than 5 millimetres in size.
These particles can come from a wide range of sources, including cosmetics, clothing, and industrial processes.
Dr. Janice Brahney, an assistant professor at Utah State University, explains that, “Once they enter the environment, they can cause a range of problems.”
Research from the University of Plymouth has revealed that a single polyester garment can shed up to 1,900 microfibers in one wash, and these microplastics can enter the food chain when they are ingested by small marine creatures, eventually making their way into the seafood we eat. Microplastics can also cause physical harm to marine life, disrupting their digestive and reproductive systems.
There is growing concern about the impact of microplastics on our health.
Recent research suggests that these tiny particles can enter our bodies through the air we breathe, the food we eat and even the water we drink.
A study published in Environmental Science & Technology in 2020 found that people could be ingesting an average of 5 grams of plastic every week, which is the equivalent to the weight of a credit card. This means that we are consuming microplastics in our food and water, and these particles could potentially cause long-term health problems.
Plastic Pollution in Our Environment
Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges we face today.
Dr. Jenna Jambeck, an associate professor of environmental engineering at the University of Georgia, states that, “Over 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic have been produced since the 1950s, and the majority of that plastic is still in the environment.”
Plastic pollution not only affects the aesthetics of our planet, but it can also have a serious impact on ecosystems. Birds and other wildlife can become entangled in plastic, or ingest it, causing injury or death. Some sea birds are mistakenly fed plastics as babies, resulting in them being too heavy to fly, so they drown when they head out to sea.
The impact of plastic pollution on our oceans is particularly concerning.
According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050 if current trends continue.
Plastic pollution can also have a direct impact on human health. In areas where plastic waste is burned, it can release toxic fumes that are harmful to human health.
The Impact of Plastics on Human Health
Many plastics contain harmful chemicals, including phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and other endocrine disrupting chemicals.
Dr. Leonardo Trasande, a professor of environmental medicine and paediatrics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, explains, “These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, which regulates hormones that play a critical role in human health.”
Phthalates are often added to plastics to make them more flexible, but they have been linked to a range of health problems, including hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues.
BPA is a chemical used in plastics that can mimic oestrogen in the body and has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems. In many situations, this has been replaced by bisphenol S (BPS) which isn’t any better!
Endocrine disrupting chemicals can also impact foetal development and may lead to long-term health problems.
One of the most concerning aspects of plastic and health is the potential impact on unborn babies.
Research has suggested that exposure to certain endocrine disrupting chemicals during foetal development could lead to a range of health problems later in life.
A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that women with higher levels of phthalates in their blood during pregnancy were more likely to have children with language delays.
Another study found that BPA exposure during pregnancy could increase the risk of behavioural problems in young girls.
It’s not just unborn babies who are at risk from the chemicals found in plastics.
Adults can also be affected.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that men who consumed food from plastic containers had lower levels of testosterone than men who did not.
Summing it all up –
Plastics have become ubiquitous in our society, but their impact on our health and the environment is becoming increasingly concerning.
Microplastics are found in our food, water, and air, and plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges we face.
Chemicals found in plastics can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to a range of health problems, including reproductive issues, obesity, and diabetes.
It’s important to reduce our use of plastics wherever possible and to recycle and dispose of them properly.
By doing so, we can help to protect our planet and our health.
Healthy Home Tips to reduce your use of plastics:
- Use stainless steel drink bottles, instead of single-use plastic bottles
- Choose food in glass containers
- Buy food from bulk suppliers so you can use your own packaging instead
- Use glass containers to store your food in – you can reuse your glass jars
- Herbs and spices keep better in glass jars
- Left-over food can be placed in the fridge in a bowl with a plate as a lid (no need for cling film)
- Use metal or glass bottles for home-made cleaning and skincare products
- Opt for sustainable scrubbing brushes, instead of plastic ones
- Opt for bamboo microfibre cloths, instead of those made with synthetic fibres
- Use stainless steel pegs instead of plastic ones
- Choose natural fibres for clothing, bedding and other textiles, avoiding synthetics
- Invest in cloth shopping bags and bags you can buy (and store) your fresh produce in
- Choose stainless steel or bamboo straws
- Check out our “Eco-friendly” category for more products with this in mind
Want your home to be a healthy one that supports your wellbeing?
Like to find out more about creating a healthy home?
Grab this FREE Could my house be making me sick? guide here.
References
- Brahney, J., et al. (2018). The plastics revolution: how have we created a world in which plastic threatens life? The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/the-plastics-revolution-how-have-we-created-a-world-in-which-plastic-threatens-life-102335
- Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2016). The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the future of plastics. https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/publications/the-new-plastics-economy-rethinking-the-future-of-plastics
- Geyer, R., et al. (2017). Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made. Science Advances, 3(7). https://advances.sciencemag.org/content/3/7/e1700782
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (n.d.). Endocrine disruptors. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/iaq/endocrine-disruptors/
- Mínguez-Alarcón, L., et al. (2018). Urinary bisphenol A concentrations and association with in vitro fertilization outcomes among women from a fertility clinic. Human Reproduction, 33(11), 2053-2062. https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/33/11/2053/5064139
- Rochester, J. R. (2013). Bisphenol A and human health: a review of the literature. Reproductive Toxicology
Flooding – The Secondary Effects
Flooding is something we’ve recently experienced on a scale that really hasn’t been seen before.
I’m not a scientist or meteorologist, but experts say this is due to either or both La Niña and climate change.
Flooding – the Primary Effects
Primarily, flooding is going to result in mould issues. Mould is a moisture issue and with the abundance of moisture (rain, on the ground and the high levels of relative humidity), we’re seeing a perfect storm brewing for mould and microbial activity.
The focus of today’s post is the secondary effects.
So, I’ll leave the topic of mould here, with the following pointers:
- Anything that’s been wet for more than 48 hours can create the opportunity for mould and microbial activity
- Porous materials that have been wet, need to be replaced
- Semi- and non-porous materials can be saved, but need to be addressed by the appropriate professionals (those who’ve trained with IICRC and have achieved the Mould Remediation accreditation)
If you want to learn more about dealing with mould, I have a course by that very name – you can check it out here.
As well, we need to keep asbestos, lead and pesticides top of mind – and use PPE where appropriate.
The Secondary Effects of Flooding
Secondary effects are those that come after the immediate cause >> effect. For these, we’ll start more broadly and then narrow it down to our homes and buildings.
Landslides
With all the moisture in the soil, it is possible to have landslides.
Local councils (in Australia) apply different overlays to areas – check with yours to see if you have a landslide overlay on your property.
Falling Trees and Branches
All that water in the soil can loosen tree roots and result in them falling.
As well, the flooding may have killed some trees, and as a result, the trees or their branches can fall.
Obviously, this can result in damage to property or people and animals.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes (or “mossies” as we call them here in Australia) are able to carry diseases.
Apart from that, if you’re like me, you get huge red welts from any bites! (Personal experience has taught me not to scratch!)
It is best not to get bitten – so keeping them out is preferred. Here are some ideas to help with that.
- This is as simple as installing fly screens over windows and doors
- Mossie zappers can be useful (installed, hanging or even the “table tennis” racquet style [which you can get from camping stores])
- If you choose to apply mossie repellents to your skin, choose a natural one, if you can
- You can check out www.ChemFreeCom.com for some safer, local options
- www.EWG.org will also list options, however, I’ve found that these are often not available in Australia (and I don’t recommend purchasing these types of items online from overseas as they may not meet our safety standards)
- I’m going to bring back my essential oil based Bug Repellent (contact me if you’re interested)
- If you opt for a non-natural option, apply an oil-based moisturiser on your skin first, so the repellent sits on the surface of your skin (and is also easier to wash of)
- Another way to use the non-natural option is to spray it onto clothing, instead of your skin
- DIY – make your own with essential oils, such as tea tree, rosemary, eucalyptus blue mallee, and lavender. You can mix them up in water and spray them on your clothes/skin and reapply every 2-3 hours
Termites
We can expect some pretty big issues with termites with the high levels of moisture.
According to Professor Dieter Hochuli, Integrative Ecology Group at the University of Sydney,
“It’s going to be a massive year for termites as the high levels of soil moisture are ideal for them to burrow and flourish” (ABC News, 31 Oct 22).
A bit like house dust mites, termites thrive in moist conditions.
Termites are attracted by the moisture then go in search of food – wood.
Here are some things to do.
- Clear away wood (fallen branches, sleepers, wood piles) from around your home and property
- Keep things as dry as you can
- Be vigilant – keep an eye on your building, including the subfloor. If you’ve got termite caps at the top of your stumps, then you should be able to spot their activity easily.
- Have your home inspected
- Termite traps can be useful around your property, too
Cockroaches and Rodents
Cockroaches and rodents (rats and mice), as well as other pests are likely to increase, particularly as the weather warms up.
Some actions that you can take are:
- Installing fly screens on windows and doors
- Keep your home clean
- Clean up food scraps and mess
- Ensure your bins close properly
- If you’ve got a compost bin, keep it away from the home
- If you’ve got chooks, look into getting a feeder that doesn’t spill their food around
- Keep pet food (and your own) in sealed containers
Other Steps You Can Take To Reduce the Secondary (and Tertiary) Effects of Flooding
- Keep an eye on the relative humidity levels – these should be between 40-60%. A hygrometer is handy for this.
- Use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity levels.
- Clean up any spills, leaks or water (or other forms of moisture).
- Oregano and Thyme essential oils can be helpful in killing mould as you clean.
- Keep your home clean from food (cockroaches and rodents love this) and dust (house dust mites love this).
- Ventilate your home as much as possible – open doors and windows to exchange the air.
- Read more –
There are many after effects of flooding – apart from the obvious ones. And these secondary effects can also be devastating. Please give these tips a go to protect your health, and that of your home.
Stay safe!
Have you been bamboozled by all the information (and misinformation) about mould?
This Creating a Healthy Home Guide exposes 3 common myths about mould so that you can be empowered to deal with it effectively.
Download your FREE copy of Mould: Busting 3 Common Myths here.
Paint Chips and Reno Risks
Paint Chips from old peeling paint can potentially expose your family and pets to lead, which is a risk to long term health.
While lead may have been banned, it is still present in many buildings.
So how do you know if the paint on your home contains lead?
Unfortunately, you can’t tell by looking as there are no obvious signs that paint may contain lead.
However, I would say that in most cases, it probably does, to varying levels.
The best guide would be that if your home was constructed and/or painted prior to 1997, it is highly likely to contain “lead paint.”
In 1997, in Australia, the lead content of domestic paint was reduced to 0.1% lead (= 1000 ppm lead), prior to that it was much higher.
On 1st October 2021, lead paint was banned in Australia. This means that all domestic paints contain lead that is limited to 0.009% = 90 ppm – ultimately meaning that no lead can be added.
The great news is that manufacturers were informed about this back in 2010, so you can rest assured that any paint made in Australia on and after this date has no added lead.
While leaded paint is safely encapsulated by more recent coats of paint, it doesn’t pose a risk in normal daily life.
However, if you are planning to renovate your home, you could be biting off more than you intended.
The only way to know for sure is to test it.
Spot tests from the hardware store are pretty unreliable.
Laboratory analysis is always the best way to go*.
Otherwise, you could assume that the paint contains lead, and manage it accordingly.
The Dos and Don’ts of Leaded Paint
If the paint in the area you are wanting to paint is in good condition, then you can:
- Wash the walls with sugar soap
- Allow them to fully dry
- Paint them carefully
However, if you are planning to remove the paint – STOP! Read this first.
Don’t dry sand.
Sanding will cause the lead to be released as airborne particles.
If you need to sand, then wet sanding is your go to method.
Don’t use a hot heat gun.
The heat gun will cause lead vapour to be released.
The only way around this is to use a heat gun with a temperature setting, and use it on the lowest setting. Keep the heat gun away from the wall. Everyone present needs to be fitted with a P2 respirator to prevent inhalation.
Avoid chemical stripping.
Chemical stripping can cause lead to end up in the wood. The end results of this is that because no paint is visible, anyone would assume that it is safe to sand. But this is not the case.
MUST DOs
In all instances, I strongly recommend the use of PPE – a respirator is essential.
P1 for sanding. P2 for using with a heat gun.
I also recommend using an air purifier to capture fumes and dust.
Before you remove leaded paint, carefully lay down a drop sheet (taping down the edges) to ensure that you’ll collect all the lead chips.
Ensure that you carefully collect all leaded paint chips, emptying them into a bag and sealing it well.
Clean the area and surrounds thoroughly to ensure that there are no paint chips or dust around from the renovation.
The LEAD Group recommends the 3-Bucket Method for cleaning. (Note, I am not a fan of step 5 – please choose an alternative way to dispose of the contaminated water.)
The Risks of Leaded Paint Chips and Dust
I recently tested a home that had been renovated, and there were paint chips all over the garden.
Whilst the paint chips definitely posed a problem to the occupants and their pets, the dust in their home also contained levels of lead that were high enough that by US EPA standards deemed the house uninhabitable for a child.
So follow the steps above and keep safe from lead.
Other Potential Sources of Lead When Renovating
We’ve talked about paint chips and dust in the home.
However, there are other potential sources of lead that you can be exposed to when renovating.
The two bigs ones are:
- Ceiling Dust
- Carpets
Ceiling Dust
Ceiling dust is usually full of all sorts of contaminants – lead dust being one of them. Dust can contain lead even in new buildings, particularly when near busy roads or industrial areas.
Like when sanding, dust from the ceiling can easily be inhaled or ingested.
And as such, I always recommend having ceiling dust professionally removed prior to any renovations.
The Australian Dust Removalists Association (ADRA) is your go to place for experts in safe dust removal.
Carpets
Carpets store a lot of dust and other matter – we won’t go into the details here, just know it’s like a time capsule of your home.
Pulling up carpets and underlay can expose you to a lot of this matter, so care needs to be taken.
Simply spray carpets with water, cut them into strips and roll them up. Taking it a step further, it is advised that you then wrap these carpet rolls in plastic and carefully remove them. This last step prevents contamination of other areas of the building from both lead and mould spores.
The same can be done with the underlay.
I then recommend a good clean, following the Three Bucket Method, as well.
Other Reno Tips
Make sure you clean up well – take extra care to remove dust, paint chips and other debris.
Test the soil if you’re planning to have a vegetable garden or chooks, you have pets, you’ve got children (especially if they’re prone to pica – eating things that aren’t normally considered food).
Take care to choose taps and tapware that are lead-free.
Interested in Learning More?
Check out this post and details about how to join lead expert, Elizabeth O’Brien (The LEAD Group) for a live Q&A call during International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week of Action (ILPPWA). Don’t worry if you’ve missed the event – go there anyway as I’ll post the video of the call there for you. 🙂
*I’m doing onsite assessments for lead, so if you want my help, enquire here.