Gas stoves leak as much methane across the U.S., having the same climate impact as half a million cars, according to a Stanford University study.
Researchers analyzed indoor levels of heat-trapping methane and nitrogen oxides and found significant amounts of each, with leaks occurring even when the appliances were not in use. Both gases can trigger asthma and other respiratory problems as well as contributing to climate change.
The study adds momentum to the movement to ban natural gas use in new buildings to fight climate change. The natural gas industry has mobilized to block such bans.
It’s unclear how much methane is coming from leaky pipes and fittings, incomplete combustion, design features of the stoves, or a combination of all three factors. Researchers based their data on 18 brands of stoves, ranging from 3 to 30 years old.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 10, 2021
Los Angeles launches fast-track office tenant improvements program
Red tape to be cut to make interiors healthier and safer.
Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2021
Florida state building professionals call for mandatory high-rise building inspections
Group recommendation comes in wake of Surfside condo collapse.
Codes and Standards | Nov 8, 2021
Dept. of Energy to fund 10 pilot smart building projects
Connected communities will accelerate renewable energy adoption and grid resilience.
Codes and Standards | Nov 3, 2021
Fact sheets offer strategies to improve indoor air quality in schools
Center for Green Schools at USGBC document for people without a technical background.
Codes and Standards | Nov 2, 2021
Rapid acceleration of affordable housing development expected over next five years
Federal government programs will spur construction.
Codes and Standards | Nov 1, 2021
New bird-friendly technical design guide released
National Glass Assn. document offers design and installation best practices for glazing.
Codes and Standards | Nov 1, 2021
World’s first chief heat officer tackles how to protect Miamians from extreme heat
Focus on chronic exposure for outdoor workers and for those that can’t afford AC.
Codes and Standards | Oct 28, 2021
Design competition launched to show role of mass timber in decarbonization
Forest Service and Softwood Lumber Board will award $2 million in grants to winning teams.
Codes and Standards | Oct 27, 2021
Texas reforms series of contractor laws
Measures seen as making it easier to do business in the state.
Codes and Standards | Oct 26, 2021
Drownings during Hurricane Ida point out FEMA flood map flaws
Eleven people drowned in New York City in areas marked as low risk.