U.S. Federal Agency Considering Gas Stove Ban
Ah, an electric stove, a foe to wok aficionados everywhere. Its pesky flat surface left us no choice but to embark on a quest to unravel the mysteries of indoor gas stoves. We could not look at you with any interest. Well, that might change. In light of recent reports surrounding gas stoves, we were taken aback to learn the potential risks they may pose. Let's delve into what we've learned about the safety of indoor gas stoves.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) suggested that a nationwide ban on gas stoves was in consideration at the end of 2022. On July 13th, 2023, bipartisan legislation was passed in the House after a week of conservatives blocking floor action. The purpose of this legislation is to prevent the federal government from imposing a ban on gas stoves. While this ban is still under debate in the main federal arena, some states and municipalities have taken action on their own.
- New York state passed a law in 2023 that bans gas stoves in most new buildings starting in 2029.
- Maryland and Colorado are considering similar bans.
- More than 80 municipalities across the country have either approved or are considering bans.
Gas appliances used for cooking and baking can emit high levels of nitrogen dioxide, according to a recent Stanford study. The study found that the emission of nitrogen dioxide from certain gas burners or ovens exceeded the outdoor standard set by the EPA within a few minutes. Currently, there are no established EPA standards for safe indoor levels of nitrogen dioxide. Not only that, gas stoves release other harmful gases, which can irritate the lungs and are linked to childhood asthma. According to Harvard Health Publishing, observational studies have found that children in gas-using households are 42% more likely to have asthma.
Here are some common pollutants associated with indoor cooking gas pollution:
* Carbon Monoxide (CO): This odorless and colorless gas is produced when there is incomplete combustion of gas. It can be highly toxic and, if accumulated in high concentrations, can lead to severe health effects, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even death in extreme cases.
* Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): NO2 is produced when nitrogen in the air reacts with oxygen during the combustion process. Prolonged exposure to high levels of NO2 can cause respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
* Particulate Matter (PM): Fine particulate matter is released during gas combustion and can include soot, smoke, and other tiny particles such as PM 2.5. These particles can be inhaled into the lungs and can contribute to respiratory issues, especially in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
* Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are released from the combustion of gas and can include various chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. Prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, and in some cases, may even be carcinogenic.
So what can you do to mitigate the health risks?
1) Ventilate the kitchen air while and after cooking.
2) Use an air purifier.
3) Install exhaust fans that direct air to the outdoors to reduce exposure to unhealthy air in enclosed spaces. While this may contribute to outdoor pollution, it effectively lowers the concentration of harmful air indoors, improving overall indoor air quality.
4) Opt for an electric kettle instead of boiling water on the stovetop. Utilize electric appliances like slow cookers, pressure cookers, rice cookers, toaster ovens, or microwaves for cooking purposes.
5) Consider replacing a gas stove with an electric stove or induction stove, and refer to helpful tips on making this transition and recycling old appliances.
Don't forget to check the Inflation Reduction Act which includes provisions for rebates and tax credits for the purchase of new electric appliances including induction stoves. To apply for rebates, individuals should follow their state's specific steps, and funding will be allocated by the Department of Energy. The Inflation Reduction Act offers an opportunity to save money while promoting energy efficiency and sustainability.
Date: June 3, 2023
Sources:
https://psr.org/.../health-effects-from-gas-stove...
https://www.npr.org/.../gas-stove-emissions-climate...
https://www.politico.com/.../house-passes-bill-block-gas...
https://www.health.harvard.edu/.../have-a-gas-stove-how...
https://www.whitehouse.gov/.../Inflation-Reduction-Act...