Air pollutant emissions patterns by cooking fuel type among Sri Lankan households

Abstract

Introduction Biomass fuel use has been identified as major health hazard; it is the principal cooking fuel used in 78% of Sri Lankan households. The objective of this study was to determine air pollutant concentrations produced by use of different fuels for cooking in the Sri Lankan setting. Methods Air quality measurements were made in 183 households using biomass fuel or kerosene (high exposure group) on 280 days and in 159 households using liquid petroleum gas (LPG) or electricity (low exposure group) on 230 days. Carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations were measured using Q-Trak Indoor Air Quality Monitor 7565 and PM2.5 concentrations were measured using a Dusttrak II Aerosol Monitor 8530 according to manufacturers’ instructions and standard procedures; all measurements were made over a 2-hour cooking session during preparation of lunch. Results Average CO (2.50+0.94 (mean+SD) vs 1.13+0.55 ppm, p<0.001) and PM2.5 (1.02+0.93 vs 0.26+0.55 mg/m3, p<0.001) concentrations were significantly higher in households using biomass fuel or kerosene (high exposure) as compared to households using LPG or electricity (low exposure).. In high exposure households, presence of a chimney significantly decreased average CO (2.24+0.86 vs 3.06+1.06 ppm, p=0.005) concentrations but not PM2.5 concentrations. In high exposure households, CO and PM2.5 concentrations were not correlated with the area of the windows and doors of the kitchen. Conclusions Average CO and PM2.5 concentrations during a cooking session are significantly higher in households using biomass fuel or kerosene as compared to households using LPG or electricity in a Sri Lankan setting. In high exposure households, presence of a chimney significantly decrease average CO concentrations but not PM2.5 concentrations.