"Kids exposed to mould as babies were three times more likely to develop the lung condition - Asthma"

This is according to the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center, news release, Aug. 4, 2011

24th June 2011

As a result of a wetter than normal Summer in many parts of Australia, many regions may be experiencing increased incidents of mould in our homes and businesses. As home and business owners, it is critical that any water damaged material is removed or completely dried out and the mould correctly removed or remediated.  Just because you cannot see mould growing does not mean that it is not there. Mould grows wherever there is little or no ventilation and it is therefore common for mould growth to occur behind skirting boards, in carpet underlay, in cavity walls, in ceiling spaces, in walk in robes, in cupboards, under floorboards and behind pictures and bookshelves. If respiratory symptoms are experienced a building biologist should be consulted to investigate and conduct air sampling for mould spores.

Mould is a fungus and needs moisture and food to germinate and grow. Some moulds are helpful and some are detrimental. It is important that we are made aware of the fact that some mould species contain mycotoxins which can cause serious health effects.

Mould causes various health effects such as eye, nose and throat irritation / inflammation, wheezing, nasal congestion, sneezing, sinusitis, asthma, recurring colds, headaches, coughing and sore throat, fatigue not eradicated by rest, Candida, rashes and various skin conditions. If the mould problem is not rectified the health problems will escalate and have the potential to cause long term health effects. With prolonged toxic mould exposure the endocrine and nervous system can be affected and this can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, mood changes and memory loss. The main concern is breathing in toxic mould spores as this can seriously compromise the body's immune system. This is particularly the case of those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, infants and those with existing respiratory ailments such as asthma. In some cases toxic mould exposure has been fatal to humans and animals. 

Mould / Mold / Mildew problems are often not dealt with in the correct manner and the mould is simply removed whenever it appears. Removing mould does not get rid of the problem and it will always come back unless the source of the problem is discovered and rectified.

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23rd June 2011

Car Pollution Crackdown will Save Lives but Comes at a Cost 

Simon Benson in Sydney - The Advertiser - 11th June 2011

"The national emission standards will target chemicals that are responsible for dangerous forms of pollution, now linked to hundreds of premature deaths a year across the country. The Government said the measures, expected to be announced today, will save more than $1.5 billion in public health expenditure over the next 20 years by reducing illnesses linked to smog."

It is important to understand that by reducing outdoor air pollution we will in turn reduce indoor air pollution resulting in better indoor air quality and better health. In offices around Australia polluted outdoor air is what is drawn in by air-conditioning units supplying air to the indoor environment. Air-conditioning units are not air filters and only contain a filter that will prevent large particles from damaging the equipment. Indoor air quality monitoring conducted by Ecolibria in city offices and those in close proximity to busy roads has revealed elevated levels of carbon monoxide ( CO ), ultrafine particulate matter and hydrocarbons.

These new national emission standards are most welcome and will contribute to cleaner air for all.

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