| Candles now blamed for Earth's
pollution |
Candles are now being blamed for global pollution problems.
Burning candles can lead to high levels of pollutants, called
particulates, released into the atmosphere.
Research by the US Environmental Protection Agency shows the pollution
from a burning candle can exceed standards the agency sets for outdoor air
quality.
"If I were someone who had a health problem like asthma, and I were
looking for things to prevent aggravating my respiratory problems, candles
and incense are two things I would seriously consider" getting rid of,
says Michael Osborne of the EPA.
The National Candle Association's Valerie Cooper says the concerns are
overstated because the highest level of particulates was seen only when
the candles smoldered.
She said: "Their conclusions clearly say under normal conditions
candles didn't produce significant amounts of particulates."
The association and EPA suggest trimming candle wicks to a quarter
inch, ventilating the house and keeping lit candles out of drafts.
Story filed: 18:54 Thursday 14th June
2001
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