When most people think of air pollution, they picture car fumes, smog, or factory smoke. But what many don’t realise is that indoor air – in our homes, schools and workplaces – can be more polluted than what we breathe outdoors.
On Clean Air Day, we’re shining a light on this hidden issue – and what we can do about it.
We spend around 90% of our time indoors. But while the air outside is monitored and regulated, indoor air is not. In classrooms, homes and other shared spaces, pollutants can build up – and in some cases, reach levels far higher than outdoors.
Cooking, cleaning, heating and even everyday products like candles or aerosols release tiny airborne particles. When there’s not enough ventilation, they linger. And unlike a visible cloud of smoke, these pollutants are usually invisible.
One group of particles, called PM₂.₅ (particulate matter less than 2.5 microns wide), is especially concerning. They’re small enough to reach deep into the lungs – and even pass into the bloodstream.
Children are especially vulnerable. Their lungs are still developing, and they breathe faster than adults. Yet many children spend over 1,000 hours a year in classrooms – often in poorly ventilated conditions.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health warns that indoor air pollution can trigger asthma, worsen respiratory symptoms and affect concentration. Damp, mould, cooking fumes and some cleaning products all contribute.
Airborne illness is another concern. COVID-19 made it clear that viruses spread more easily indoors. Good ventilation and filtration help remove these from the air – just as they help remove pollution.
The evidence is consistent and growing: when we clean the air, children get sick less often, concentrate better, and miss fewer school days.
The good news? We don’t need to wait for major infrastructure changes. Air purifiers – including low-cost DIY models – can reduce particle levels by 40–60% in typical indoor spaces.
They work. They’re affordable. And they make an immediate difference.
That’s why the Corsi-Rosenthal Foundation UK is working with Burley Oaks Primary School to install 30 air purifiers across classrooms and shared spaces. It's the first school in the country to partner with us, and we hope it’s the first of many.
We’ve already raised 50% of the funding we need. With your help, we can finish the job – and give every child at Burley Oaks a better chance to learn and stay well.
Clean air shouldn't be a luxury. It’s as essential as clean water.
Help us give children the air they deserve.
Donate here: https://justgiving.com/campaign/cleanairburleyoaks
