Franciscan Living Challenge: Continue eliminating toxic products

Living Simply, Living Franciscan
by Mary Ellen Dunford, affiliate

Scientific research proves that indoor air in the majority of our homes and work places is more polluted than outdoor air. This is partly due to toxic chemicals in household cleaning products and other common items we use on a daily basis. As the 2010 Franciscan Living Challenge to clean green and reduce toxic household cleaners comes to an end, my hope is that your indoor air quality has improved your health, your family’s health and the health of the environment.

Please don’t stop! Continue eliminating and replacing other toxic products in your home like cosmetics, hygienic products (deodorant, hair spray, shampoo), shower curtains and toys and pet products. For every product with toxic chemicals there is an alternative that is safer to use. As consumers the products we choose can make a difference in the quality of the air we breathe.

I invite you to consider two more options to improve air quality. First, as weather permits, open windows and let the outdoor air freshen your indoor environment. Second, place plants in every room of your home or in your work environment. Plants are not only beautiful but can absorb contaminants from the air and contribute to fresh air by converting carbon dioxide to oxygen. Most plants will help to purify the air but on top of the list are Purple Waffles, English Ivy, Purple Hearts, Foxtail Ferns and Wax Plants.

Please continue to reduce your use of toxic cleaning products. Together we can create a healthier world.