We all know that clean air is essential. But you may not know that clean air is more cost-effective than you might think. The financial benefits of clean air help the health of employees, customers, and visitors in your facilities. From avoiding medical bills and decreasing sick days to increasing productivity by breathing clean air, there are plenty of reasons to invest in technology that helps clean your space. 

Some spaces need clean air for health and financial benefits.

Humans need to breathe clean air. That’s obvious, but many people don’t realize how exposure to indoor air pollutants can cause various health problems. Those with respiratory infections, heart disease, strokes, and cancer are all more at risk. Unfortunately, this means that certain places need more aggressive cleaning methods.

Nursing homes are particularly susceptible to indoor air pollutants and surface contamination. The harm can go from troubled breathing to more severe issues. For instance, in a recent study, indoor air contaminants were linked to cognitive decline in older women. 

Another study out of  Brown University showed a definitive link between indoor air pollution and strokes. Though the EPA regarded the air quality as “safe,” their findings showed that concentrations of harmful air particles could increase the risk of stroke. Conversely, clean air in nursing homes can drastically reduce the risk of health complications, including strokes.

While making people healthier is vital by itself, illness costs money. The economic strain a family might experience if an elderly family member requires assisted living only worsens if their loved one falls ill. The financial responsibilities far outweigh the benefits of an assisted living facility. It’s why many families try to take care of their older members on their own. However, that’s just looking at assisted living facilities.

With clean air creating healthier spaces, we get more financial benefits.

But beyond keeping people healthier overall, clean indoor air is important for the bottom line. Air pollution imposes significant costs on organizations. How often are classroom desks wiped down? Or cafe counters? Probably a lot. That’s because when a pollutant is introduced into a space, it settles onto surfaces. While HEPA filters will catch many contaminants, the air must move through them first.

Wiping down counters might sound menial, yet it’s actually pretty costly. Think of all the cleaners and paper towels! But on the much more expensive end, clean air will reduce healthcare costs and lost productivity. A recent study estimates that the annual cost of treating diseases caused by outdoor air pollution is $167 billion. If employees aren’t getting sick, they aren’t extending their healthcare costs, and they are working more.

But also, clean air helps people breathe better. If people feel better at work, they perform better. Clean air energizes people, helps them focus, and makes them happier.

However, many businesses are reluctant to invest more in clean air because reducing air pollution requires companies to weigh the immediate financial concern with the long-term benefits. It also requires individuals to participate too, even if it is just using a napkin to wipe off a cafe table when they are finished using it.

But let’s look at the economics of clean air a little more.

The cost of indoor air pollutants.

That cost is much higher than people might imagine. For example, a recent study by the American Lung Association found that air pollution costs the economy $193 billion each year in premature deaths, missed work days, and health care expenses.

The human health effects of indoor air pollutants are well-documented and include respiratory problems, heart disease, cancer, and mortality. But, in addition to these direct impacts on human health, air pollution also affects revenue, as we said earlier. 

When you factor in all of the costs associated with air pollution – from healthcare to lost productivity – it’s clear that cleaning up our air is good for our health and revenue.

The financial benefits of clean air.

When it comes to the cost-effectiveness of clean air, there are several factors to consider. The most crucial factor is the health benefits that come from cleaner air. 

Studies have shown that businesses and industries thrive in facilities with cleaner air, as they can attract more customers and employees. This results in increased revenue and jobs, which in turn increases revenue.

When we consider all of these factors, it is clear that the cost-effectiveness of clean air is undeniable. Moreover, investing in clean air technologies and policies is an investment in our future that will pay dividends for generations to come.

So, let’s look at ways to improve indoor air quality.

Proper ventilation

Using fans, HVAC systems, and open windows (weather permitting) improves ventilation and air circulation, decreasing the likelihood of high concentrations of specific pollutants. 

Replace HEPA filters regularly

HVAC systems use HEPA filters to capture large particles of dust and debris. By regularly replacing air filters, which trap dust, you will be able to create healthier air for your facility. 

PCO Technology has many benefits, financial or otherwise.

With PCO Technology, you can go beyond collecting particles in a filter and destroy pathogens and harmful air pollutants mid-air and on surfaces. PCO is very effective against all indoor air pollutants, including mold & bacteria. 

Clean air is essential for our health and environment. In addition, the financial benefits of clean air are undeniable. Though it might feel that the upfront costs will be high, it’s becoming much more affordable. For instance, the Puraclenz P3000 costs $499 at regular price and covers 3000 square feet.

So, if you have a small space or a very big one, there are ways to make the air healthier for everyone while taking in the financial benefits.