You have heard all the discussion on urban air quality. Well, it looks like what is in the car is dangerous, as well. The Ecology Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. says that the off-gassing chemicals inside of new automobiles are toxic. This isn't good when they estimate that the average person spends 1.5 hours a day inside of their shiny new car.
Thanks for photo from javanutmom at Flickr.
Implications - So the next time you hear someone in a car extolling the virtues of 'new car smell,' drop this series of facts on them. It may create an awkward situation, but it'll probably ensure that he/she won't be triumphantly inhaling the life-altering and damaging fumes of their new cars.
Toxic Interiors
"New Car Smell" Proven Dangerous
Trend Themes
1. Toxic Car Interiors - Opportunity for innovation in developing safer materials and technologies for car interiors.
2. Awareness of Off-gassing Chemicals - Potential for businesses to offer products or services that help consumers identify and minimize exposure to off-gassing chemicals.
3. Shift Towards Health-conscious Vehicles - Disruptive opportunities in the automotive industry to cater to the growing demand for cars with healthier interior environments.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Opportunity for car manufacturers to develop and promote vehicles with non-toxic interior materials.
2. Consumer Goods - Potential for companies to create and market products that help consumers reduce exposure to toxic chemicals in various settings, including cars.
3. Environmental Health - Disruptive innovation prospects in the field of environmental health to address the issue of toxic off-gassing in various industries, including automotive.