Climate Equity LA Series: Tackling Indoor Air Pollution for a Healthier Future

The Climate Equity LA Series 2025 Virtual Launch Event on February 13 brought together experts to discuss the importance of safe and clean air at home. The event featured Marta Segura, MPH (Chief Heat Officer and CEMO Director), and Jill Johnston, PhD (Associate Professor, Population and Public Health), who shed light on the hidden dangers of indoor air pollution and what we can do to combat it. 

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

We spend 90% of our lives indoors, yet indoor air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Common pollutants include airborne particles, household chemicals, and emissions from gas stoves. Climate change exacerbates these issues, with extreme heat, wildfires, and poor ventilation worsening indoor air quality. 

Health Risks and Vulnerable Communities

Poor indoor air quality is linked to respiratory illnesses such as asthma, pneumonia, and lung cancer as well as cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes, in addition to cognitive decline. Certain groups, including children, pregnant women, and low-income communities living near high-pollution areas, face disproportionate risks.

The Growing Threat of Extreme Heat and Wildfires

Extreme heat and wildfires significantly increase air pollution, with stagnant air trapping pollutants like ground-level ozone. Wildfire smoke contains hazardous chemicals and fine particulate matter which further degrades indoor air quality, especially in urban areas like Los Angeles.

Reducing Indoor Air Pollution: Practical Solutions

The discussion emphasized actionable steps for individuals and communities, for example, ventilating your home by opening windows and using air purifiers with HEPA filters, while avoiding ozone-producing purifiers. Filtering indoor air effectively is key and this can be done by using MERV 13+ filters in central air systems and replacing them regularly. We can also reduce pollutants at the source by swapping gas stoves for induction cooktops, using non-toxic cleaning supplies, and limiting candles/incense. Additionally, mold and humidity exacerbate indoor pollution, so keeping moisture levels low can help prevent mold growth, especially during extreme heat.

Community Action & Resources

While Los Angeles does not currently provide free air quality monitoring devices, programs like LA Public Libraries’ community science initiative offer tools for residents to measure indoor air pollution. Attendees were encouraged to advocate for cleaner air policies and create personal action plans for improving home air quality.

Clean indoor air is essential for public health, yet it remains underregulated. CEMO urges LA residents to take proactive steps in their homes and communities while advocating for policies that ensure equitable access to clean air for all!

For more information or to get involved, reach out to CEMO-Office@lacity.org.