A Green Eyed View - green ideas and advice

Is Your Shirt Making You Sick?

An important message from Public Citizen:

Is your shirt making you sick?

What about your sofa or your spatula? Are the toys your children or grandchildren play with safe?

Since our founding over four decades ago, Public Citizen has served as a leading watchdog for consumer safety.

With our latest campaign, we’re partnering with the League of Conservation Voters to strengthen laws that keep toxic chemicals out of our bodies, out of everyday products we all use, and out of our homes, communities, classrooms and workplaces.

Join Public Citizen and the League of Conservation Voters in calling on the U.S. Senate to pass the Safe Chemicals Act.

There are 85,000 different chemicals on the market. The Environmental Protection Agency tests only a few hundred of them.

Asthma, diabetes, childhood cancers, infertility and learning disorders are more and more prevalent. The federal system meant to protect us from harmful chemicals hasn’t changed in 35 years.

Why?

The chemical industry cares more about its profits than your family’s wellbeing.

For decades, the industry has fought improved chemical safety laws. In 2011 alone, it spent $52 million lobbying Congress to block meaningful reform.

Help Public Citizen and the League of Conservation Voters petition the Senate to put health and safety before corporate profits.

Here are some of the Safe Chemicals Act’s key provisions: requiring regulators to identify and restrict the most dangerous chemicals; upgrading scientific methods for evaluating chemicals; and mandating basic health and safety information for all chemicals that enter or remain on the market.

Protect yourself and your loved ones from toxic chemicals.

Sign the Safe Chemicals Act petition today.

AFM Safecoat - Reclaiming Our Leadership Role

~Today's guest post comes from Jay Watts of AFM Safecoat, VP Technical Service and New Projects~

Mr. Watts has 17 years of specification experience counseling customers on using safer coating alternatives for home or office buildouts/remodels. Having worked with hundreds of chemically sensitive clients and being sensitive to construction chemicals himself, Jay is well versed on product applications as they relate to improved indoor air quality and human health. He also heads up the company's New Projects Development team which focuses on new product design and marketing.

San Diego, CA. April 3rd, 2012 -  Back in the 70's no one was really interested in indoor air pollution or chemical sensitivities. But the original founder of AFM was. He asked his chemists to explore alternatives to the toxic ingredients being used industry wide. Out of that  research came Safecoat Safe Seal. Safe Seal got its  first major trial at an armed forces hospital in Nevada which had closed  because it actually made allergy patients sicker. 

Doctors suspected indoor air pollution from the paints, carpeting and everything else. After coating the facility with Safe Seal, it reopened successfully. This was the epiphanous moment for AFM. Now we could chart a safer chemical formulation course for a host of better coating products.

As people with the misdiagnosed condition called chemical sensitivity found out about these new products they sought us out, as we were the only hope they had that there might be a safer way to remodel or build.

That was 30 years ago. In the last ten years, with greater awareness of the health challenges posed by the use of toxic products, more manufacturers have attempted to tap into this health oriented market. The paint category, as an example, is cluttered with many brands claiming safe chemical superiority. The truth is, this misleading messaging has confused consumers and eroded the perception that we are the first and safest coatings manufacturer in the country.

It is easy to make marketing claims, create questionable certifications and spend great sums of money to entice customers to try the supposedly non toxic brand du jour. It is high time we re-claimed our position as the leader in our industry.

~ No other brand can point to a 30 year history of safe use by thousands of customers.
~ No other brand can boast a complete line of safe products for almost every construction project.
~ No other brand can say doctor recommended.
~ No other brand has safer formulations.

Now is when we should together bang the drum of health and safety and recommit our businesses to the higher standard we set 30 years ago. There are many imposters but only one true leader - AFM  Safecoat. 

Why Does HealthyHome.com Matter?

I think this happens to everyone once in a while. You know what you are doing. You’re confident that you are doing a good job. You’re responsible and reliable. Your job or career feels right and you know you are on the right track. But… the day to day mechanics of getting it all taken care of is stressful and that can build to a point where you might question your mission. If you have a few days that don’t go smoothly or challenges continue to pop up and take your focus away from what you feel you should be doing you may start to doubt whether it matters. As they say, “It happens”.

Not too long ago, I felt overwhelmed by challenges brought on by a series of very crazy occurrences that weren’t my fault but nonetheless my job to rectify with my customers. It was almost as if my vendors all got together and decided to screw up all my orders and then took turns. Orders got misplaced and consequently didn’t get filled. Orders got shipped to the wrong address. Orders got mixed up and the wrong items got shipped. Orders that were to be shipped on specific dates got shipped on the wrong dates. Orders that were shipped to the right address encountered a new delivery driver who couldn’t find the address so the order was returned to the warehouse and nobody followed up with it until my customer checked the tracking and called me.  It really was so frustrating that I cringed when the phone rang for fear I would hear yet another customer with a new problem. It was weeks of unnecessary screw ups that had me shaking my head and wondering what’s next.

But then I received an e-mail from a long time customer who was very grateful for the products and advice she has gotten from HealthyHome and it all came back into focus. She wrote a “review” that I could share with others who might be considering buying from HealthyHome.com.  I measure our success by the fact that what we do and the products we sell make a difference to the individuals who buy them and to the planet because they buy them.

I want to share Paige’s email because it’s a wonderful reminder of why we’re here. This makes it all worthwhile.

““As a person with multiple chemical sensitivities, sometimes even the most well-known "non-toxic" products cause me to have allergic reactions. It is often quite worrisome to try new products. For that reason I have come to rely on Tom Chasm and HealthyHome products for help that has been crucial to my health and wellbeing. HealthyHome's AFM Safecoat paint is the only paint I have been able to use, among all the "special” non-VOC paints (I tried 10 of them!).

Also, I react very badly to polyurethane and looked to Tom for help. The AFM Safecoat Polyureseal BP was the only product I could use to coat my 2600 square feet of new hardwood floors without any adverse reaction whatsoever. This was amazing to me!

Additionally, The Airfree Onix 3000 air purifiers really did make rooms free of musty, mold and mildew smells. These and other products, along with Tom's guidance and advice have taken the worry out of home buying, home maintenance and home building for me!”

---Paige O.

Exclusive Natural and Clean Technology - Airfree® - Air Purifiers Product of the Year

First of all, I want to wish everyone a very Happy New Year. May 2012 bring you peace, happiness, joy, love and health. Thank you all for a really wonderful year. We are happy to be able to help you make your home a healthy home.

We introduced AirFree Air Purifiers a year ago. I was, and still am, impressed by the technology and the published tests results. Now I can say we have our own anecdotal results. The AirFree Air purifier has been a huge success in helping people improve their indoor air quality. And in some cases the AirFree Air Purifiers have dramtically improved the quality of life for our chemically sensitive clients.

Because of this I have decided to create our very first HealthyHome Annual Product of the Year Award. I am proud to present this year's Product of the Year Award to AirFree Air Purifiers.

Each year we will evaluate our product list and choose the product that has positively improved the quality of life for our clients.

AirFree Air Purifiers can dramatically improve indoor air quality and living conditions by drastically reducing airborne mold spores, bacteria, and microorganisms as seen on Airfree independent tests. Airfree may improve the conditions of buildings with "sick building syndromes” if affected by airborne microorganisms.

The Airfree system uses the most modern way of environmental control. Its indicated to reduce drastically the population of microorganism in the environment and also reduce the airborne allergen proteins.

Why Airfree®?

• Silent! No sound emission
• No filters or UV lamps to replace! Replacement parts for other air purifiers may cost over $200 a year.
• Economic! The natural Airfree® TSS™ technology uses less electricity than a 50W light bulb
  and requires no replacement parts that cost hundreds of dollars a year.
• Ozone and Ion free! The natural Airfree® TSS™ technology is ozone and ion free and has no hazardous emission. Airfree® reduces toxic and corrosive Ozone, which according to the EPA may trigger asthma and destroy lung tissue.
• Exclusive Natural and Clean Technology! The Airfree® TSS™ technology uses heat alone to incinerate airborne microorganisms. No fiber-glass filters, triclosan-coated paper nor any type of material harmful to you or the environment when disposed of. Airfree® is the only technology that reduces ozone while simultaneously destroying microorganisms
• Efficient! Airfree® has been tested in real working environments with credible ISO microorganisms such as mould spores, bacteria, viruses, and dust mite allergens that pass through its patented TSS™, regardless of how hazardous or miniscule they might be.
• Easy to install and use! Just place Airfree® on the floor and plug it into the nearest electric outlet. No need for constant maintenance or cleaning.
• Safe! No need to touch or change dirty and contaminated filters. Electrical safety is
  assured by the CE and TUV Seals of Approval.
• Faster Performance! Microorganism reduction begins just 15 minutes after Airfree® is plugged in.
• Durable! Airfree® has a rugged and durable design with no moving parts, resulting in virtually no wear and tear.
• Allergy and Asthma Relief! Airfree destroys dust mites, moulds, fungus, and other microorganisms that are the main offenders in triggering allergies, asthma, and other respiratory
  conditions.
• Anti-Stress Light! Anti-Stress Light! The exclusive Airfree® dimmer controlled anti-stress light. Ideal for children’s rooms can also be used as a night light or turned off completely.
• New user-friendly warning sensor! Airfree's state of the art sensor warns users if their unit is improperly installed.
• Awarded Design

Small and Portable

P1000

• Capacity: 450 sq. ft
• Electric consumption: 45W
• Voltage: 110 - 127V
• Dimensions: height 10.4 in (26.5 cm) and diameter 8.4 in (21.5) cm
• Noise level: Completely silent.
• Weight: 2.4 lbs (1.09KG)

P2000

• Capacity: 550 sq. ft
• Electric consumption: 48W
• Voltage: 110 - 127V
• Dimensions: height 10.4 in (26.5 cm) and diameter 8.4 in (21.5) cm
• Noise level: Completely silent.
• Weight: 2.8 lbs (1.09KG)

Onix 3000

• Capacity: 650 sq. ft
• Electric consumption: 52W
• Voltage: 110 - 127V
• Dimensions: height 10.4 in (26.5 cm) and diameter 8.4 in (21.5) cm
• Noise level: Completely silent.
• Weight: 3.3 lbs (1.48KG)

AirFree FAQ

1 . How does Airfree work?

Airfree incinerates microorganisms at its heated capillaries. Contaminated air is dragged into Airfree's ceramic core by air convection and microorganisms are destroyed at high temperatures regardless of how resistant and dangerous they might be.


2. Are there any side effects?

No. Airfree's new technology uses heat to purify the air.
No side effects, no emissions, NO IONS, nor new particles are generated. Airfree should be used in all homes and offices quietly, constantly and efficiently purifying the air.


3. What is Airfree's air cleaning capacity?

Airfree P1000 was designed for rooms up to 450 sq. ft. (42m²), Airfree P2000 Platinum was designed for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. (51m²). Airfree P3000 Onix was designed for rooms up to 650 sq. ft. (61m²)


4. Can I install Airfree in my walking closet?

Yes, as long as it has at least 400cu.ft (11m³)*. Airfree should not be placed under shelves or its efficiency will be reduced.
* as reference 400cu.ft (11m³) is approximately 7'x7'


5. Can I use Airfree in air conditioned rooms?

Yes.


6. How do I know if Airfree is no longer working?

Check the top lid and if warm Airfree is working.


7. Can I place Airfree at the corridor to reach the whole house?

No. Airfree will just reduce air pollution in the corridor's area.


8. Can I place Airfree in a closed room?

Yes. Please remember such a room must have at least 400cu.ft (11m3)*.
* as a reference 400cu.ft is approximately 7'x7'


9. Is it necessary to keep doors and windows closed?

No


10. Does Airfree eliminate bacteria and viruses?

Yes. Unlike the air filters in the market Airfree is more efficient with smallest microorganisms as they are easily carried by Airfree's airflow into its heated ceramic core.


11. Can I change Airfree from one room to another?

No. Airfree must always be plugged in the same room 24 hours a day. Airfree's patented technology works gradually and cannot have its cycle interrupted. Moving it from one room to another will interrupt the cycle.


12. Should I turn off Airfree when I leave house?

No. Airfree must always be on.


13. What happens if Airfree is disconnected or there was a black out?

Airfree will take approximately the same time to recover the previous reduced contamination level.


14. Does CADR measure the effectiveness of the Airfree?

Not at all. CADR is not designed to test the Airfree technology.
The AHAM seal (usually found on the back of an air cleaner's box) lists three Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) numbers: one for tobacco smoke, one for pollen and one for dust. The CADR indicates volume of filtered air delivered by an air cleaner. The higher the tobacco smoke, pollen and dust numbers, the faster the unit filters the air. The main reason why CADR is not designed for Airfree is because Airfree does not filter but destroys microorganisms instead, CADR only applies to volume of filtered air delivered by an air cleaner as stated above. CADR does not measure microorganism reduction like mould and bacteria only detectable by a microbiology lab.

Airfree destroys (not trap or attract to other surface) any microorganism regardless of how small they might be. 99,99% of all organic particles are fully destroyed when passing through the Airfree U.S. patented ceramic core.


15. How does Airfree destroy dust mites?

Mold reduction in the atmosphere causes a reduction in the mold dependant dust mite population.
Airfree also destroys the harmful toxins and fungus freed by dust mite feces that trigger respiratory allergies.


16. How does Airfree eliminate fungi?

As mentioned before, Airfree eliminates airborne microorganisms included fungi and spores. By eliminating spores no new colonies will be formed, meaning less future fungi and spores in the air.


17. How does Airfree destroy viruses?

Those microscopic microorganisms are easily eliminated inside Airfree's ceramic core capillaries. Inside temperature of Airfree capillaries is triple the temperature required to incinerate them. Airfree is your largest ally in respiratory disease prevention.


18. Does Airfree reduce tobacco smell?

Yes, Airfree reduces any kind of organic smell in the ambience including tobacco.


19. Does Airfree release any gas or chemical product?

No. Airfree's sterilization process is natural. Please check our website for conclusive tests regarding particles and O3.


20. Does Airfree heat up a room?

No. Airfree does not increase room temperature. To have an idea 2 Airfrees plugged in the same room will contribute as much heat as the presence of one adult in that same room.


21. Does Airfree provoke any change in room's the relative humidity?

No.


22. Does Airfree need filter replacement?

No. Airfree's technology uses heat and not filters nor dangerous emissions.


23. Does Airfree consume a lot of energy?

No. Airfree’s consumption is just 45 Watts for P1000, 48 Watts for P2000 Platinum and 52 Watts for P3000 Onix.


24 - Does Airfree anti-stress light interfere with Airfree sterilizing function?

No. The anti-stress light has an aesthetic effect and can be relaxing too or simply used as a night light in children or newborn bed rooms. According to chromo therapy the blue light has calming and relaxing effect.

TESTIMONIALS


USA

1.

Jose Vegar
Queens, New York

HI! I got two units "platinum 2000.let me tell You.if You are looking for a REAL "air sanitizer" You do not have to look anywhere else.AIRFREE is here to help all those people looking for a better indoor air.and the best way to get this priceless pure air is getting an "AIRFREE" unit. I strongly recommend them.remember the MOST IMPORTANT thing that we have is our health.so take care of it!
thank you again AIRFREE.for your help keeping our indoor air pure.


2.

M. and G. Rankin
San Diego, California

Our daughter has asthma, caused by a dust mite allergy. From the age of
1 year she has been treating her asthma with a cortisone inhaler and antihistamines. At one point, we had to spend a few weeks in a clinic for respiratory treatment, but still she had a lot of problems, like waking up early in the morning because she had to cough or she couldn't breath properly etc. She often had bronchitis, therefore couldn't go to school, doctor visits kept us very busy and she had to go through all kind of tests... Just over half a year ago we got an Airfree Platinum 2000 for her room and since then she has not been to the doctor any more, hardly needs any medication and hasn't missed school any more. Not to mention how much better she is feeling.
And that because of just one air purifier. We bought more in the mean time, because it is a good feeling to know that with this we can also prevent other family members from developing respiratory problems.
The Airfree is definitely the most valuable contributor to health improvement that we ever bought. Thanks!

M. and G. Rankin
San Diego, California


3.

FD - Austin, Texas

Dear Airfree:
I purchased an Air Free because the mold counts are always high in my city and I am sensitive to them. I take a number of prescription and (former prescrption - now generic) medications on a daily basis year-round. Using Air Free has produced a major reduction in my symptons. There is a major improvement in my comfort and I am very, very happy with the Air Free and the relief it provides.


4.

RN- Linden, NJ

Dear Airfree:
I just purchased 3 more of your airfare products. Last month I bought one unit to see how it worked. My allergies are a lot better since I purchased your unit. I have no more itchy, burning watery eyes, and no more runny nose. I just wish I could take it outside with me when I go out. Your unit is the only unit that has made my allergies symptoms a lot better, after trying so many other products that never helped.
Thank you so much for a wonderful product.
RN- Linden, NJ - 06/05/2006


5.

s.u. from MA, USA

I love my Airfrees. I have one in each bedroom and one in the kitchen and hope to get at least one or two more for the living room and basement area.
We cleaned our kitchen ourselves with the help of Airfree and the post test came back with no fungi detected. Even remediators tell you if they remediate the spore count will go down but the post test will more than likely still show some spores as it can't be eliminated completely. I guess they haven't heard about Airfree. It certainly lives up to its reputation and there definitely are no mold spores in this kitchen. I even did a couple of swab tests on my own to double check and they also came back completely clean.

In addition, my husband used to snore terribly at night and since Airfree has been in the bedroom I noticed I am sleeping better as his snoring has gotten less and less and now has actually stopped. Whatever was causing the stuffy nose which led to the snoring has been eliminated. I presume whatever allergen was causing this was wiped out by Airfree.

Everyone should have at least one in their home.

Thank you Airfree.


6.

Houmas House
Kevin Kelly, the owner of Houmas House (Louisiana) www.houmashouse.com a mansion worth visiting, kindly provided below testimony to encourage other pet owners to benefit from the marvellous action of Airfree.

I purchased 8 Airfree units and placed them in Big House of Houmas House Plantation and Gardens. They were placed in each of the 4 main rooms on the first floor and one in each of the bedrooms on the second floor of the Mansion.

I placed them there, because my dogs Princess Grace and King Sam were having odors because of swimming in the ponds. When you walked in the Mansion, you could smell dog hair odor. After placing the Airfree in the rooms, the odors disappeared. We actually have guests who come to Houmas House and say that they are surprised that an old house like this, has no odor. Some have actually said that they find it hard to believe that dogs live in the house, because of the lack of odors. I suggest that they buy the Airfree,

The Houmas House Mansion was built in 1805, is known as the Sugar Palace, and is the Crown Jewel of the Great River Road, Our collection of antiques and artwork is valued in excess of $6,000,000 and is protected from mold damage and odors by the Airfree.

It is hard to believe that a small silent machine can make such a difference in living in an historic residence.

Kevin Kelly

18-03-2005 - by E-mail


7.

It is my 90 year old husband who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for whom I bought the Airfree. He thinks it has been most helpful to him and would not be without it!
Aside from being most effective, it is also virtually maintenance-free. I certainly can recommend it highly.
I hope this will be of some help to you and if I can be of any assistance, please feel free to contact me.

E.A.G – Medical Doctor – USA


8.

After several years of worsening pain, I made the decision to have my hips replaced. This required two separate operations and two separate hospitalizations.

My surgeon indicated the greatest danger was not the surgery, but the risk of infection while recuperating in the hospital. Accordingly, I discussed the use of an Airfree unit with him.

The result was that on both occasions, I took an Airfree machine with me to the hospital and came through without so much as a hiccup.

I am confident that the use of this machine in my hospital room contributed to my recovery.
Thank you for making this unit available.

Sincerely,
Jeff Bagnall
Hudson, NY


9.

I live in a one-bedroom condo in an older building on Miami Beach, with my girlfriend. Since moving there we have always experienced a large amount of dust and other particles circulating around the condo.

We currently have the Air Free in our living-room where our 10 Week old English Bulldog puppy hangs out in. Let me tell you the Air Free has made a huge difference. No smell and no more dust. The best part about the Air Free is that its completely silent.

We are definitely interested in getting another one to put in our bedroom. Please forward me some more information as to how we can possibly get another one.

Thanks again and I hope all is well.


Best Regards,
J J, C.P.A.


10.

"I am confident of the unit's effectiveness in my bedroom. It's a great system. The no need to change parts makes it more desireable than other air cleaning machines. I plan to purchase another in the near future".

Russ R.

Costa Mesa, CA


11.

Absolutley amazing. I moved in with my girlfriend who has a cat. I am strongly allergic and was taking allergy medicine daily just so I could spend time with her.
I now have 2 units for over 2 months, and my problems are gone! A P2000 in the living room and a P1000 in the bedroom have solved everything. No more allergy medication, no more suffering, and I can even playh with the fuzz ball a little bit.

Thanks Airfree!
M. Sachs
PA
USA

12/03/2006 - by E-mail




England

12.

As a Physician specialising in allergy and environmental medicine, I am very impressed with the Airfree Air Steriliser for the purpose of removing molds and their spores from the air we breathe. These sterilisers work by using localised heat to sterilise the indoor air and encourage the circulation of cleaned air throughout the room. It does not require filters. This last point is important as all air filtration systems eventually block up with dust and mold, and this has the long-term effect of redistributing the molds throughout the room and is counterproductive. As a sufferer from an allergy to mold, I am very impressed with this machine as a way of keeping the air free of allergens. As a result of using an Airfree Steriliser in my bedroom for the last three months, I no longer wake up with depression and cold shakes from the mold spores that one would otherwise breath during the night. This is a vast improvement. (I understand that it takes about 6 weeks for the Airfree to have its full effect, presumably because it has to sterilise the air in the room over a period of time. In this connection one should not move it from room to room, it is better left static in one place where it will work its magic.)

I also installed an Airfree in my kitchen, which I consider to be a natural mold trap because of the steam from cooking and various vegetable items which are kept in the environment.

I have noticed that since the Airfree was installed, my basil plants now survive instead of dying instantly, and that they are not afflicted with mold, either on the earth or on their leaves. They even survive having bits taken off in the usual way and are thriving. Also my onions don’t go moldy.

Overall I feel the Airfree has contributed greatly to the reduction in the mold count in parts of my house (in which there was previously a problem due to the damp British climate.) It has also contributed to an increase in my mental and physical energy and stamina. I can wholeheartedly recommend this machine for anybody with a serious allergy to mold and other airborne allergens. Also I recommend it to my patients with this problem.

Dr. Diana Samways MD is a Physician specialising in Nutrition, Allergy, and Environmental Medicine in Haslemere, Surrey, England.

27.12.2003 by Email


13.

However, as along standing allergy sufferer from Dust Mites, Hayfever and many other things I think the product is fantastic. I have it plugged in my bedroom and whenever I am suffering I can go in that room and within about 20 minutes I am 100% better, even with the window open, where in the past I had to close the house up and lie in dark room for hours to feel better. I also suffer from a certain amount of mold during the damp winter months so I am now expecting great things of the product on that front too.

L.G – England


Portugal

14.

It is becoming more often each day, sick people with sino problems with direct implications (in the acute phases) from the environment where they are inserted (either in domestic or professional environment).Therefore I recommend as important complementary treatment, the usage of equipments that helps to improve the air used by these patients .From jh Among all available equipments I find that AIRFREE have an extraordinary importance in the improvement of the quality of life of our patients.

Porto,2004-Julho-14
D.D.- Dr. ORL
Assistente Hospitalar Graduado em Consultor de ORL
Director da Consulta Externa do Hospital Pedro Hispano
MATOSINHOS - PORTUGAL
Secretário-Geral da Sociedade Portuguesa de Otorrinolaringologia


Costa Rica

15.

Client: Direccion General Archivo Nacional - San José, Costa Rica
04/06/2005

DC – 159 – 2005
Señor
Otto Sauer C.

SAUCA INTERNACIONAL LTDA.

De acuerdo con lo conversado, me permito informarle que la demostración que se representada ha hecho en nuestras instalaciones, de 6 unidades de esterilización de aire, resultó muy provechosa, ya que los funcionarios nuestros que trabajan en el área donde se instalaron los esterilizadores , percibieron un cambio radical en el ambiente un día después que las unidades comenzaron a funcionar. Sintieron un aire más depurado y menos pesado, por lo que ellos han estado realizando sus labores con mucha más tranquilidad e desahogo. Prueba da la funcionalidad y efectividad de las unidades, es que en la parte superior de los esterilizadores, se acumula diariamente un polvo oscuro, como residuos del proceso de depuración del ambiente.

Con el agradecimiento por su gentileza, se subscribe e usted

Atentamente,
DEPARTAMENTO DE CONSERVACION
Marco A. Calderón
Jefe

Click here to see original text


Puerto Rico

16.

Now I know everything that affects my allergic condition is under control. At least in my bedroom where I spend most of my time.

Dolores O.

San Juan, Puerto Rico


France

17.

Jeanine B – Cachan
J’ai 72 ans et je souffre d’une allergie qui à pour conséquence de m’irriter en permanence la gorge ce qui m’oblige a un « raclement » fréquent peu confortable pour moi et pas très agréable pour mon entourage.
L’origine de cette allergie n’a jamais été établie avec précision, mais il s’agit vraissemblablement de poussiéres ou de moisissures présentent dans ma maison.

J’ai connu Airfree par une de mes connaissances qui ayant elle même une machine m’a dit que peut être l’appareil pourrait être efficace sur la destruction des causes de cette irritation. J’ai fait l’acquisition d’une machine que j’ai branchée dans ma chambre.


18.

Caroline R – Vanves
Je suis travailleur indépendant et je partage mes locaux professionnels avec d’autres personnes dont certaines sont de gros fumeurs

Etant fumeuse moi même, la fumée ne me dérange pas, mais je n’ai jamais pu m’habituer aux odeurs de tabac froid le matin. De plus les locaux étant anciens et mal ventilés il faut y rajouter des odeurs de renfermé.

J’ai trouvé Airfree en faisant des recherches sur l’Internet, je me suis décidé a passer commande et j’ai installé la machine dans notre bureau.

L’amélioration a été rapide et sensible. Les odeurs ont disparues et la qualité de l’air de la piéce s’est sensiblement amélioré.

Ca marche …


19.

Gilles H - Paris 15 – França
J’ai 45 ans et je suis asthmatique depuis de nombreuses années, je suis obligé de suivre des traitements medicaux réguliers pour diminuer au maximum l’apparition des symptomes de cette maladie.

J’ai connu Airfree après avoir effectué un voyage aux états unis. Le produit me semblant prometteur j’ai décidé de de l’acquérir et je l’ai installé dans ma chambre.

L’amélioration du confort est notable, bien sur ma maladie est toujours là, mais la gêne liée a l’irritation des bronches a beaucoup baissée, au point que j’ai pu diminuer les doses de mon traitement de fond.

Je me permet donc de conseiller Airfree aux personnes sensibles étant dans le même cas.

Testimonials from www.purificateur-air.com



Netherlands


20.

- Client: Dr. Carlos Corte Real - Doctor, Holanda
21/07/2005

Dear Airfree,

It is my pleasure that you add my testemony to your web site. As a doctor I' ve seen many patients suffering from asthma and respiratory allergy. It's frustrating what we doctors can do because the majority of medicines, inalators and a vaccine that is beeing developed are doing very little effect in terms of releiving the symptoms. The vaccine which I tried myself is far to be effecient.

It is conforting to know that me as a patient of severe allergy to the dust ,as well as other patients we can now simply breath a clean air that increases our energy, our good humor and ability to work. Airfre is great tecology and I know more cases of people which asthma had decrease just because cleaning their rooms with Airfree. As a doctor I strongly reccommend the use of Airfree to all patients suffering from respiratory allergy or asthma.

Yours sincerelly,

Dr.C.Corte Real, MD,arts

Hong Kong


21.

Client: Mrs Alice Ellis-Smith - Doctor, Holanda
07/12/2006

My asthma has affected my quality of life considerably in the last few years: every few days my chest would be "on fire", my throat sore and raw, my mouth dry... Having given up my inhaler, I've tried Chinese medicine, therapeutic massage, attempted Buteyko breathing, modified my diet, etc. Then I was given an Airfree - surely such a small gadget would have little impact I thought. A week of running it in my bedroom, I began to feel better and wake up with a clearer chest and no sore throat! It's now been a month and I have not an asthma attack at all. What can I say except that it works - buy it, buy one for every room!

Australia


22.

Hi Airfree,

Yes, it has. Thank you.

It is very effective in removing smells and odours. And occassionally I put it in my car parked in the garage with the window down overnight. I would rate it as great. I haven't tried any other air filters, so I can't really compare how effective they are. However in terms of value for money compared with the prices of other airfilters, I would say the airfree product is awesome. Its also small and compact which allows it to be very portable and to be able to be placed in places like my car quite easily.

And the customer service and generosity of spirit I would rate pretty high. I will definitely be recommending this product to other people.

Thanks,

C.F., Australia

National Museum of the American Indian Awarded LEED Green Building Certification

October 11^th, 2011 - I’m pleased to pass on this press release I just received.

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian announced that it has been awarded a LEED Silver rating established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute. LEED, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings.

“This achievement not only signifies the Smithsonian Institution’s commitment to sustainability, it also advances our museum’s mission to share traditional indigenous values such as stewardship and conservation,” said Kevin Gover (Pawnee), director of the museum.

The National Museum of the American Indian achieved LEED certification for energy savings, water efficiency, indoor environmental air quality and sustainable sites. Unique on the National Mall, the museum has nearly 150 species of plants representing four landscapes indigenous to the region: an upland hardwood forest, lowland freshwater wetlands, eastern meadowlands and traditional croplands. In addition, the museum’s contributions to, and support for, environmental research—as well as public programs like the annual Living Earth Festival, the Indigenous Farmer’s Program and the newly launched environmental website for educators, American Indian Responses to Environmental Challenges—reflect traditional knowledge that has been developed over millennia by Native Americans with the living earth.

By using less energy and water, LEED-certified buildings save money, reduce greenhouse emissions and contribute to a healthier environment for area residents. “The National Museum of the American Indian’s LEED certification demonstrates tremendous green-building leadership,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair of the U.S. Green Building Council. “The urgency of USGBC’s mission has challenged the industry to move faster and reach further than ever before, and the museum serves as a prime example of just how much we can accomplish.”

LEED certification of the National Museum of the American Indian was based on the number of green design and construction features that positively impact the building and its immediate environs and the broader community. These features include:

• High standards achieved for exterior and interior building management
• Extensive use of native vegetation within the museum’s landscape
• Indoor environmental air quality
• Water-efficient and sustainable landscape
• Onsite and offsite use of renewable energy
• Recycling and waste management

The museum is the first Smithsonian museum building to achieve LEED certification.

 

For more information, visit www.usgbc.org.

 

AirFree Air Filters – A New Way to Clean Your Indoor Air

The natural Airfree® TSS™ technology uses heated air to destroy airborne mold, bacteria, viruses, dust mites, and pollen allergens. It is a great product for people living with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions.

The Most Tested Air Purifier

Not only the most tested air purifier, but the most successfully tested. Here is why; Airfree's exclusive and patented Thermodynamic Sterilizing System (TSS™) technology has been independently tested in “real life” working conditions by world renowned institutions and ISO 17025 laboratories in six different countries including the USA, Sweden and Germany. These tests prove that Airfree® totally destroys up to 99.99% microorganisms that pass through its patented TSS™, no matter how small or hazardous they might be.

Airfree® offers a detailed copy of the independent tests on its website www.airfree.com assuring consumers of Airfree's outstanding efficiency in drastically reducing airborne microorganisms such as

• Mold spores
• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Pollens
• Dust mite remains, excrement, and allergens
• Organic odors
• Ozone
• Pet Dander

 

The Safest Air Purifier

No Ozone nor hazardous emissions

1. Airfree® emits no ozone. The Airfree® TSS™ technology generates no dangerous emissions, NO ions, NO UV light and NO ozone. In fact, independent tests in laboratories in Sweden demonstrate that Airfree® actually reduces ozone by 26%. Ozone is a toxic gas that according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) can trigger asthma and destroy lung tissue.

2. No need to change dirty contaminated filters nor to clean dirty blades. For allergic people, contact with infected materials can be very harmful, possibly resulting in a severe allergic reaction. Airfree´s exclusive TSS™ technology completely destroys and eliminates all organic contaminants. Airfree® destroys all microorganisms as well as its harmful elements including their bio-toxins.

Most microorganisms, such as mold spores, remain a great threat even after they have been killed, as their bio-toxins remain active. It is important to choose an air purifier that destroys ALL of these harmful elements. Airfree® is proven 99.99% effective in destroying all microorganisms.

Why Airfree®?

1. Silent! No sound emission

2. No filters or UV lamps to replace! Replacement parts for other air purifiers may cost over $200 a year.

3. Economic! The natural Airfree® TSS™ technology uses less electricity than a 50W light bulb and requires no replacement parts that cost hundreds of dollars a year.

4. Ozone and Ion free! The natural Airfree® TSS™ technology is ozone and ion free and has no hazardous  emission. Airfree® reduces toxic and corrosive Ozone, which according to the EPA may trigger asthma and destroy lung tissue.

5. Exclusive Natural and Clean Technology! The Airfree® TSS™ technology uses heat alone to incinerate airborne microorganisms. No fiber-glass filters, triclosan-coated paper nor any type of material harmful to you or the environment when disposed of. Airfree® is the only technology that reduces ozone while simultaneously destroying microorganisms

6. Efficient! Airfree® has been tested in real working environments with credible ISO microorganisms such as mold spores, bacteria, viruses, and dust mite allergens that pass through its patented TSS™, regardless of how hazardous or miniscule they might be.

7. Easy to install and use! Just place Airfree® on the floor and plug it into the nearest electric outlet. No need for constant maintenance or cleaning.

8. Safe! No need to touch or change dirty and contaminated filters. Electrical safety is assured by the CE and TUV Seals of Approval.

9. Faster Performance! Microorganism reduction begins just 15 minutes after Airfree® is plugged in.

10. Durable! Airfree® has a rugged and durable design with no moving parts, resulting in virtually no wear and tear.

11.Allergy and Asthma Relief! Airfree destroys dust mites, moulds, fungus, and other microorganisms that are the main offenders in triggering allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions.

12. Anti-Stress Light! Anti-Stress Light! The exclusive Airfree® dimmer controlled anti-stress light. Ideal for children’s rooms can also be used as a night light or turned off completely.

13. New user-friendly warning sensor! Airfree's state of the art sensor warns users if their unit is improperly installed.

14. Awarded Design

 

Small and Portable

P1000

• Capacity: 450 sq. ft
• Electric consumption: 45W
• Voltage: 110 - 127V
• Dimensions: height 10.4 in (26.5 cm) and diameter 8.4 in (21.5) cm
• Noise level: Completely silent.
• Weight: 2.4 lbs (1.09KG)

P2000

• Capacity: 550 sq. ft
• Electric consumption: 48W
• Voltage: 110 - 127V
• Dimensions: height 10.4 in (26.5 cm) and diameter 8.4 in (21.5) cm
• Noise level: Completely silent.
• Weight: 2.8 lbs (1.09KG)

Onix 3000

• Capacity: 650 sq. ft
• Electric consumption: 52W
• Voltage: 110 - 127V
• Dimensions: height 10.4 in (26.5 cm) and diameter 8.4 in (21.5) cm
• Noise level: Completely silent.
• Weight: 3.3 lbs (1.48KG)

Applications Home, Office Archives, Libraries, Museums, Schools, Universities, Kindergartens and Daycares, Retirement Homes, Housing for the Elderly, Hotels, Vacation Resorts, Stores, Super Markets, Hospitals, Clinics, Laboratories, Ocean Cruisers, Yachts, Food and Pharmaceutical Industries.

FAQ

Will one Airfree® unit be powerful enough for my room?

One Airfree® is powerful enough to purify the air in rooms up to 450 sq ft for the P1000 model, 550 sq ft for the P2000 model and 650 sq ft for the Onix 3000 model. If the room is larger than as indicated above, more Airfree® units should be added proportionally to the room size.

How does Airfree® work?

Airfree® is the ONLY proven technology on the market that fully destroys and neutralizes mold spores, dust mite allergens, viruses, bacteria, pet dander, organic allergens, and ozone. Airfree® works by drawing air through tiny ducts into its patented TSS™ incineration chamber where up to 99.99% of microorganisms are incinerated. Poisonous gases like ozone are there destroyed as well. The heat used in Airfree® has no noticeable effect on the temperature of the room.

How much does Airfree® cost to run?

Very little! Remember, Airfree® has no expensive Hepa filters or UV bulbs to replace. Replacement filters for other air purifiers can cost in excess of $150 a year. Airfree® has none of these ongoing costs, and is designed to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, consuming less than a 50W light bulb which is quite insignificant compared to the 200W Hepa filters used in other air purifiers.

How can I be sure that Airfree® really works?

Please remember that Airfree® is probably the only air purifier manufacturer offering detailed copies of independent tests in real life conditions, in large rooms occupied by people, assuring Airfree’s outstanding efficiency in drastically reducing airborne microorganisms. These independent tests can be seen at www.airfree.com .

Ozone Free Certified

The Swedish National Testing and Research Institute has tested Airfree® and verified that it emits absolutely NO amount of Ozone. As a matter of fact, Airfree® even reduces the amount of this toxic gas by 26%. Ozone, which is emitted by many air cleaners currently on the market, is a noxious lung irritant that can, even in small amounts trigger allergic reactions.

Bacteria and Mold Reduction Certified

Destroys 99.99% of all microorganisms including any type of fungi and spores, virus and bacteria. According to independent laboratory tests the average airborne mold and bacteria reduction from Airfree® is 85% to 95% in areas up to 450 sq ft. All the tests were realized in “real life” conditions, not in small and closed chambers.

SPEND YOUR MONEY WISELY WHEN PURCHASING AN AIR PURIFIER!

• Before deciding answer the following questions:
• Does the chosen manufacturer provide a copy (not quotes) of independent tests proving their claims?
• Precisely how does the device purify the air?
• Does the chosen air purifier generate ozone? Is it safe?
• How much will it cost to replace filters and parts?
• Is it noisy?
• Is the technology natural, clean and environmentally friendly?
• How cumbersome and heavy is it?
• Will it interfere with the decoration of your house?

How to Create a Healthy Bedroom – Part 2

Install non-toxic flooring

 

Last month I started a series about making your bedroom healthy. As you probably know, a third of your entire life is spent in the bedroom. Do the math and you’ll realize how important it is to have a safe place to rest and re-charge. For this post let’s look at what type of flooring is best for a healthy bedroom.

 

I don’t normally recommend carpeting because no matter how careful you are to keep it clean, it still can be home to lots of things that are potential allergens. If you must have carpet, choose a natural wool carpet from Earthweave or Nature’s Carpet Dark Green series. They make chemical free wool carpeting that is strong, beautiful and will outlast most synthetic carpets. Synthetic carpets are a sea of chemicals that can and do cause health problems for people. Especially be careful if you have children because they spend so much time playing or crawling on the floor and they are more vulnerable to the toxins.

 

One of the reasons people choose carpeting for the bedroom is so they can roll out of bed and not put their bare toes on a cold floor. Well you don’t have to have carpeting to accomplish that. Cork floors work that way too.

 

A cork floor is perfect for the healthy bedroom. Cork has insulating properties that keep it at room temperature so you can go barefoot without getting cold feet. It also has acoustical insulating properties so your bedroom will be quieter which is more conducive to sound sleep. It is easier to keep clean than carpet thus eliminating allergens that might be hiding in your carpet. It is naturally anti-static and anti-bacterial. Most cork companies have a good range of colors and styles to choose from so cork can work with any décor. Cork is comfortable underfoot because it is comprised of thousands of air cells which act as a cushion. I highly recommend cork for the bedroom but I think cork has all the right properties for any room in the house.

 

Other healthy alternatives for bedroom flooring are ceramic tile, terrazzo, bamboo or any FSC certified hardwood like EcoTimber. FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification is, in my opinion, the only flooring certification process that truly safeguards the forests and forest workers. There are other forest certification systems in use but none of them meets the strict standards of the FSC. Some of them actually clear cut their forests and how that qualifies a company to be certified as a green company is inconceivable to me.

 

So you now have a healthy bed and healthy flooring. In future posts we will look at paint, furniture and windows.

 

Thanks for reading - To get updates when there is new information posted please add your email to my list. I promise not to sell or share your email with anyone. And feel free to comment and share my posts. I need your feedback to make this of value to you.

 

Thanks,

Tom

EcoTimber named Consumer Reports “Overall Top Pick” for 2nd year in a row

Denver, CO - EcoTimber, Inc. is excited to announce that it has received the unprecedented honor of being named an Overall Top Pick by Consumer Reports for a second consecutive year.

The August 2010 issue of Consumer Reports has named EcoTimber Honey Solid Woven Bamboo as a Top Overall Pick and “Recommended Best Buy” in the solid hardwood category. In addition, EcoTimber Vertical Grain Solid Strip Bamboo was named #2 Overall Pick for the same issue, moving up several spots from last year’s issue. For more information please visit www.consumerreports.org.

“We are extremely honored by this review from Consumer Reports for the 2nd year in a row”, says newly-appointed COO Chanel Clifford, “it really drives home our philosophy of being able to provide the highest quality products in the market while never losing focus on our deep rooted commitment to the environment. In the past year we have made significant changes to our product offering and this rating demonstrates our continuing commitment to high quality above all. We also recently added an amazing engineered version of this top rated product that we hope will garner similar ratings next year in the engineered category.”

About EcoTimber
Since 1992, EcoTimber has promoted forest conservation and healthy environments by selling sustainably harvested wood and bamboo products that are completely free from added ureaformaldehydes and other harmful VOC’s. We back our products with a commitment to high quality, friendly service and competitive pricing. Our suppliers' forestry practices guarantee us a perpetual yield of high quality timber and bamboo while maintaining or restoring healthy, self-regenerating forest ecosystems. EcoTimber specializes in offering wood products from forests that are certified according to the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) as well as reclaimed and salvaged hardwood. EcoTimber also prides itself in only sourcing bamboo products that are harvested from natural plantations without the need to replace a bamboo forest. EcoTimber thoroughly researches its sources to ensure that we maintain the highest standards in choosing genuinely eco-friendly products that consistently exceed the expectations of our customers.

How to Grow Fresh Air: 50 Houseplants That Purify Your Home or Office

 

Despite our continued efforts to reduce pollutants in our homes, we could always use a little help. That is exactly what you get when you introduce common houseplants to the home environment. Dr B. C. Wolverton, a NASA scientist, has put together a list of plants that work overtime cleaning the air. We know that formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia are poisonous gases that can be emitted by carpet, furniture, cleaning products, paints, stains and other coatings.

 

Reseaerch by Dr B. C. Wolverton has proven that these irritants can be filtered out of the air by simply bringing in some common houseplants to the rescue.

 

The top 5 houseplants that purify indoor air:

• Bamboo Palm – Chamaedorea Seifritzii
• Chinese Evergreen - Aglaonema Modestum
• English Ivy Hedera Helix
• Gerbera Daisy Gerbera Jamesonii
• Janet Craig - Dracaena “Janet Craig”

For the complete scoop on which plants are best for your environment order How to Grow fresh Air: 50 Houseplants That Purify Your Home or Office. You'll be adding some lovely green and improving your indoor air quality at the same time.

 

Click the link below for more information and to order your copy today.

 

 

How to Grow Fresh Air: 50 House Plants That Purify Your Home or Office

 

The links above are to my favorite independent bookstore. Help support Inkwood Books, Tampa's only full service INDEPENDENT bookstore.

 

 

The bedroom is the most important room to go green

The bedroom takes priority for me as the first room to become a healthy room. If you have to choose a room rather than do your whole home, choose your bedroom first. I spend at least 8 hours a day, one third of my entire life, in the bedroom. To put that into perspective, at my age I have spent 20 years in my bedroom. No other room has garnered that much of my time so the bedroom gets top billing.

Here is a list of things to do to make your bedroom a healthy room:

· Get the most comfortable, least toxic mattress and pillows you can

· Install non-toxic flooring

· Paint with zero VOC paint

· Move electrical/electronic items away from the bed

· Install energy efficient windows

· When buying furniture, only buy non-toxic furniture

· Get an air filter that remains on even when you are not in the room

Get the most comfortable, least toxic mattress and pillows you can

Most of the time spent in the bedroom is spent in your bed. If you don’t have a healthy mattress you may be having respiratory issues as well as physical and emotional challenges. If you’re not sleeping well, it will impact your mood, energy and general well being. Your pillow and mattress may be harboring mold, mildew and dust mites which can seriously affect your health. And recent regulations require mattress makers to add a fire retardant to all new mattresses. The cheapest and easiest way to comply with that regulation is for the manufacturer to add chemicals to their mattresses. To read some consumers’ testimonials about how they have been affected by chemical laden mattresses go to Chem-tox.com, a website created by a professor at the University of Florida.

What you need to look for when selecting a mattress is one that is made from the most natural chemical free materials available. My vote goes to Savvy Rest for using natural rubber for latex layers, organic cotton covers with organic wool batting. The wool acts as the required flame retardant so they don’t have to use chemicals. Their beds come in layers of different firmnesses so you can configure your mattress to your comfort. They use Talalay and Dupont latex with offer different firmness characteristics. I can guarantee you’ll feel the difference immediately. There are other companies who make healthy mattresses as well – Natura, Keetsa, FloBeds, and Ikea are a few. These companies have a range of products and not everything is as healthy as they could be.

Since your face is in your pillow for 7 to 8 hours at a time, a natural latex pillow is my recommendation. Natural latex in your pillows and mattress are inherently healthy because they don’t hold moisture and can’t harbor mold, mildew and dust mites. There are other natural pillows to try but be sure they are not treated with chemicals.

This a quick look at how to get your bedroom on its way to being eco-friendly and a safe haven of green. I'll cover the other points in detail in future posts so stay tuned.