Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

I think I have mentioned these many times, whether in my blog or in my conversations with friends.

However, not everyone has a deep understanding of what VOCs are and meant to them. So let's get familiar with it for the greater good of our health and life.

VOCs are chemicals that are emitted from solids and liquids. VOCs also have a tendency to build up in indoor spaces, so concentrations in indoor air is generally relatively high compared to outdoor spaces—as much as two to five times, according to the EPA.

VOCs exist in products such as :
- Paints
- Solvents
- Aerosol sprays
- Household cleaners and disinfectants
- Moth repellants
- Air freshener
- Fuels and auto products
- Glues and adhesives
- Drycleaning chemicals
- Pesticides
- Building materials
- Furniture and carpets
- Nail polish
- Vinyl shower curtains

These are common products we come into contact each and everyday and if you are to open your cabinets, I guaranteed you can find these in your home. People may think well, the paint on the walls had already dried and they have been living in the house with no side effects. What you don't know is that VOCs continue to release chemicals into our environment over the years even if they had dried up so don't take it for granted. Just because you can't see it nor smell it, does not mean it is not invading your body.

Some VOCs have short-term health effects but some are suspect carcinogens which mean they can cause cancer. Short term health issues include eye, nose and throat irritation, headache, nausea and temporary loss of coordination. VOCs can damage your liver, kidneys and central nervous system in the long run.

What you can do to avoid all the above from happening is making the right choice today. By choosing non-toxic and low- or non-VOC products whenever possible. If you must purchase or use a product that off-gasses VOCs, be sure to use them in well-ventilated spaces, or outdoors.

What is frustrating to me however is that it is incredibly difficult to find low or non-VOC products here in our sunny island, in fact, they probably doesn't exist, you have to import most of them from more developed countries (What an irony!). Trust me, I have visited many DIY shops here and none of them carry any low or non-VOC paints...arrghhh.

Be green, stay healthy!