The Negative Effects of Gas Stoves on Health and The Planet
Many homeowners today may prefer to use gas stoves over electric ones. Whether it’s because they think gas stoves are easier to use, or maybe even more cost-efficient. Gas stoves have their pros, but do they outweigh the cons? Although it may seem like just an appliance preference, switching to electric may benefit long-term health.
A recent study from Stanford University revealed that the health impacts of natural gas stoves are greater than previously thought. Natural gas is a very deceiving source of fuel, when burned it produces fewer emissions than traditional fossil fuels. This can lead someone to believe that natural gas is cleaner than fossil fuels, when in fact it is not. The problem with natural gas systems is that it is constantly leaking methane, whether it’s in a plant, pipeline, or household, methane is leaking. According to the referenced study, not only do gas stoves emit CO2 when in use, but they also release methane from leaking even when turned off. Natural gas home air pollution could trigger asthma, coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and other long-term respiratory health concerns while contributing the greenhouse emissions.
Not only is natural gas within homes dangerous for health, but it also has a large impact on atmosphere pollution. According to Stanford University, “natural gas-burning stoves inside U.S. homes has a climate impact comparable to the carbon dioxide emissions from about 500,000 gasoline-powered cars.” This data is only considering the U.S, the number of gas-burning stoves globally is likely to contribute much more greenhouse gas emissions.
What is the solution to stopping household methane emissions?
It may be possible to stop natural gas systems from leaking methane, but that doesn’t address the bigger issue. The only way to truly eliminate household methane emissions is to make a full transition to electric. By switching to all-electric utilities and appliances your carbon footprint can be reduced greatly. For those who are concerned about the electricity costs of switching to 100%, the costs could easily be offset with a microgeneration wind turbine. Borrum Energy Solutions specializes in making home wind turbines that are perfect for helping reduce electricity costs and grid dependency.
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