The next time you're in a new car and inhale to enjoy that new car smell, you might want to hold your breath and open the windows instead. That scent is probably built-up toxins released by the synthetic materials in the car.
What You Smell
A Greenguard Environmental Institute (GEI) study measured the levels of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) in the interior of three new cars. VOCs are gases released from the plastics, adhesives, sealants and other materials used in new cars, and include a variety of chemicals. The study found more than 100 different chemicals in the cars, including formaldehyde, benzene and acetic acid. The car that sat on the lot the longest had the highest levels of VOCs.
Health Effects
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, these chemicals may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. VOCs irritate the eyes, nose and throat and cause headaches, nausea, and damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. Some of them can cause cancer. Children are more vulnerable to VOCs because they breathe in more air relative to their size.
Remedies
Keep your windows open for ventilation, especially during hot weather, and try to minimize your child's exposure to a new car interior until it has had a chance to air out.
Thanks for discussing the issues of VOCs in your publication. We would like to point out that since Greenguard was acquired in 2011, UL Environment has been offering GREENGUARD product emission testing and certifications. Find out more at http://industries.ul.com/environment/healthier-products.
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