Do you have an innovative idea for an effective, low-cost technology or approach to clean indoor air? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its federal, state, local and tribal partners announce a Challenge competition to encourage the development of effective, low-cost technologies to reduce indoor PM2.5 concentrations and protect public health. Applicants can submit designs for an innovative technology, approach, or technology combination. Winning submissions will receive prizes of up to $10,000.
Wildfires release many pollutants that are unhealthy to breathe. Particle pollution, specifically fine particulate matter (PM2.5), is a main component of wildfire smoke and a known health risk for people exposed to unsafe or prolonged levels, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma or cardiovascular disease. During wildfires, smoke can spread many miles, impacting communities near and far and resulting in recommendations that include staying indoors with the doors and windows closed when possible.
Current air cleaning technologies for indoor air have multiple limitations that prevent their widespread use and adoption, including the cost of purchase, operation and maintenance as well as dependence on electrical power, which can be disrupted by wildfires or rolling blackouts. This Challenge encourages the development of affordable and sustainable approaches, technologies, or technology combinations for keeping indoor air as clean as possible during periods when outdoor PM2.5 concentrations are elevated, such as during smoke events from fires.