Household air pollution

Household air pollution from the burning of fuels such as biomass, coal and kerosene using inefficient devices for cooking, heating and lighting is a major contributor to premature death and disability, particularly in low and middle-income countries. Exposure to household air pollution is associated with acute lower respiratory infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. Households in poor rural areas, especially women and children who are primarily responsible for cooking and collecting fuel, are especially vulnerable. Cleaner household energy options, such as clean fuels and improved technologies that burn fuel more cleanly and efficiently, can reduce the health and other burdens caused by household air pollution. Strategies to increase the adoption of clean household energy and reduce the associated adverse health impacts include policies – especially those that provide financial support to purchase cleaner technologies and fuels – improved ventilation or housing design, and communication campaigns to encourage clean energy use.