I know I'm just one person, and taking care of the environment is a huge job. There are little things I do to make a positive impact on the environment, like using public transportation, avoiding aerosol spray cans, and even owning an indoor houseplant. Yep, you read that right. Owning certain houseplants can actually help clean the air because they work to absorb harmful pollutants and purify the air.
This is how it works - plants absorb carbon dioxide and release fresh oxygen into the air through a process called photosynthesis. Remember that word from highschool biology? Studies have recently shown plants also absorb such harmful chemicals as formaldehyde and benzene that can make you sick. Simply put, plants act as nature's filters and clean the air.
Some plants I recommend are spider plants, gerbera daisies, mums, and chrysanthemums. These plants, among others, absorb chemicals through tiny pores in their leaves. The roots have also been shown to absorb carbon and gradually decompose other chemicals. All they need to thrive is a little water and sunshine, so even if your thumb is not as green as you'd like, you can still keep a small plant around.
It's important to keep in mind houseplants are not able to rid completely your house of pollutants. Make sure you air ducts, installation, and furnishings are in proper working order. I know that raising my plants is a small step to a better world. I think we can all breathe easier with a few houseplants to spruce things up!
