New York-Metro Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) Emissions from Gas Stoves and Ovens in New York City Apartments

Overview

Indoor air pollution released by kitchen ranges during cooking is an understudied public health issue. This study aimed to quantify residential air pollution from kitchen ranges in New York City apartments. Indoor nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels were measured before, during, and after stove usage for different fuel types, specifically natural gas, electric, and electric induction. Gas stovetops generated consistently higher NO 2 levels than induction and electric ranges; the average of stovetop trials surpassed recommended levels for sensitive groups defined by the EPA and WHO (0.099 ppm) by reaching 0.147 ppm. Emissions for gas stovetops and ovens were significantly higher than emissions from induction and electric burners, which remained near baseline. Notabl y, the average baseline NO 2 level, measured prior to range use, in apartments with gas stoves was higher than in those with electric stoves by a factor of 1.3 (p -value = 0.0002), demonstrating that gas stoves may impact indoor air quality even when not in use. The baseline NO2 levels in apartments with gas ranges were three times higher than outdoor NO 2 levels measured by neighborhood sensors (New York City Community Air Survey, 2022). Finally, during lunch rush, we tested NO2 levels in three commercial kitchens. The total average of each restaurant remained at healthy levels demonstrating the role for ventilation. Our work shows a significant difference in pollution associated with gas ranges compared to electric ranges, indicating a clear health risk, especially to vulnerable populations. This study supports legislation encouraging transitioning to electric and induction ranges in urban areas.

Competition history

• JSHS 2024 Category not listed

Resources

• National JSHS abstract book ↗

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