Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a significant concern for both indoor and outdoor air quality, as they can pose serious health risks.

VOCs are a class of carbon-based chemicals that readily evaporate at room temperature. Many everyday household products, including paints, varnishes, cleaning supplies, and cosmetics, contain VOCs. When these products are used or stored, they release VOCs into the air, which can deteriorate indoor air quality. Elevated concentrations of VOCs in indoor environments can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Prolonged exposure to high levels of VOCs may result in severe health issues, including liver or kidney damage and even cancer.

Outdoor air quality is similarly impacted by VOCs. They are emitted into the environment from various sources, including vehicle exhaust, industrial processes, and the evaporation of fuels. Once released into the atmosphere, VOCs can react with other pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides, to produce ground-level ozone, a major component of smog. This not only diminishes visibility but also poses significant health risks, contributing to respiratory issues and worsening conditions like asthma.

Moreover, VOCs are instrumental in the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which consists of tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs when inhaled. Exposure to PM2.5 is linked to a variety of health problems, ranging from respiratory ailments to cardiovascular disease.

In addition to their effects on human health, VOCs also have substantial environmental consequences. They contribute to climate change by reacting in the atmosphere to form greenhouse gases. Furthermore, the ground-level ozone generated by VOCs can damage vegetation, adversely affecting crop yields and threatening biodiversity.

Given these factors, it is crucial to understand and manage VOC emissions to preserve air quality and safeguard both human health and the environment.