Flair 2008News Letter, Page 3 Christmas Trees- Source of Indoor Mold?      A study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Annual Scientific Meeting in Dallas examined the relationship between mold growth on live cut Christmas trees and poor indoor air quality.      The study grew out of a consistent and dramatic increase in asthma and sinus complaints among patients every winter, especially pronounced during the holiday season.      During a two week period researchers measured mold counts in a room containing a live cut Christmas tree, beginning when the tree was brought inside and decorated.      Normal indoor air has a mold level of 500-700 spores per cubic meter of air. The first few days of the study measured counts at 800 spores per cubic meter of air escalating to 5000 spores per cubic meter by the 14th day.      The study demonstrated that a live cut Christmas tree can be a significant source of mold spores. Families with allergies in general, and mold allergies in particular, should not keep a live cut Christmas tree in their homes for more than a few days at most. Global Warming      The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has recently issued a report. Here are some of the key findings:       Eleven of the last twelve years are amongst the warmest since 1850. Sea levels have risen seven-hundreds of an inch per year since 1961. Temperatures have risen 1.3 degrees F in the last 100 years. Human activity is largely responsible for warming. Global emissions of greenhouse gases grew 70 percent from 1970 to 2004.       Most climate experts acknowledge a link between increased greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and climate change.       There are a few simple things that we can all do to conserve energy while at the same time helping our environment.      Per FPL, 75 percent of electricity used to power electronics is consumed while the products are off. Unplug charges for cell phones, I-pods, etc when not in use. For electronics that do not require programming, simply plug into a power strip and shut off when not in use.      Where feasible and possible use compact fluorescent bulbs. They last up to 10 times longer and use at least 2/3 less energy.      Turn off ceiling fans when you leave a room. A ceiling fan that runs constantly can cost up to $7.00 a month in energy use depending on size and age.      During the warmer months close curtains on windows with a direct sun exposure to keep the suns heat gain out of the home to help reduce cooling cost.      Likewise, during the colder months open curtains on windows during the days that have direct sun exposure to aid in heating the home.      By being conscious of our energy and water use we can all make simple changes to help our environment and conserve our resources. Return to Page 1       Return to Page 2       Go to Page 4
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