Millions of households use natural gas to power cooktops, ovens, and kettles every day. But even when these devices sit idle, the distribution network can emit gases that pose health risks to residents. A new examination of real-world gas use continues to illuminate these concerns, focusing on the Boston metropolitan area and its homes.
A recent study confirms findings from other research: natural gas used inside homes contains a mix of volatile organic chemicals that can be harmful when inhaled, with some linked to cancer risk. The investigation also highlights how these pollutants can generate secondary air contaminants, including fine particles and ozone, when released into indoor and outdoor environments.
The research was carried out by a consortium of institutions, including the Center for Climate, Health and Global Environment at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, PSE Healthy Energy, Atmospheric and Environmental Research, Gas Safety Inc., Boston University, and the Home Energy Efficiency Team. The team published its results in Environmental Science & Technology, underscoring the public health implications of residential gas use.
Digital natural gas meters installed in homes illustrate the energy infrastructure that brings gas from distribution networks to kitchen appliances. The study’s lead voices, such as Drew Michanowicz, a visiting scientist with Harvard Chan C-CHANGE and chief scientist at PSE Healthy Energy, emphasize that natural gas contributes both climate-warming methane and a suite of indoor air contaminants. These findings remind readers that the moment natural gas enters a dwelling, potential health concerns follow, alongside broader environmental impacts.
Researchers previously mapped hazards from unburned natural gas and airborne pollutants but had not fully assessed human exposure. Between December 2019 and May 2021, scientists collected more than 200 unburned gas samples from 69 kitchen stoves and related gas lines across Greater Boston. The chemical analysis identified 296 distinct compounds, with 21 classified by federal regulators as hazardous air pollutants. The study also measured odorant concentrations to gauge detectability, noting that leaks containing roughly 20 parts per million of methane might escape human notice due to a faint odor cue.
When gas leaks occur, even small quantities of hazardous air pollutants can degrade indoor air quality. Persistent leaks in the distribution system can also reduce outdoor air quality by increasing particulate matter and ozone precursors that migrate beyond the home.
The kitchen is a prime setting for gas-related exposure. Another co-author, Jonathan Buonocore of Harvard Chan C-CHANGE, notes that appliances like stoves and ovens can release hazardous chemicals even when not actively used, and similar compounds are likely present in leaking gas networks within urban areas.
Policy makers and utility providers can play a pivotal role by educating consumers about how natural gas is delivered to homes and the possible health risks. Reducing leaks from appliances and street-level gas pipes and expanding viable alternatives are part of the recommended path forward.
In light of these findings, researchers proposed a set of measures for lawmakers and individuals aimed at lowering health risks associated with domestic natural gas use. Increasing ventilation is among the most practical interventions, alongside reducing indoor pollution sources. Simple steps include opening windows and enabling outside ventilation during cooking to lower exposure.
If a gas smell is detected, occupants should leave the building and contact the gas company immediately to determine whether a leak exists in or near the residence. These precautions align with the study’s emphasis on prompt action to mitigate potential exposure.
Reference: Environmental Science & Technology, 2021 study. An explicit citation for readers follows this line in the source text: [Citation: ACS EST 2021 study for context and verification].
Note: The information here summarizes the findings of the cited study and related publications without direct links. Readers are encouraged to consult the cited journal for full details. [Citation: ACS EST 2021].