Many of us use natural gas in our day-to-day lives, including cooking on gas stoves. PSE’s team of researchers will be collecting and analyzing samples from residential natural gas from April 18-20 in Pittsburgh.
The non-profit research institute is seeking participants for the new study, which “aims to improve our understanding of the relationship between indoor air quality and human health and the potential health hazards of unburned natural gas.”
It’s a pretty straightforward process: A pair of researchers will collect a sample of unburned gas from your stove and analyze it for air pollutants. This process takes about 15 minutes and does not affect the stove in any way. Bonus: Those selected to participate will be given a $25 stipend.
“We hope local residents take advantage of this opportunity,” GASP Executive Director Patrick Cambell said. “A burgeoning body of scientific research shows the air pollutants that gas stoves emit can have negative health impacts, often exacerbating respiratory conditions like asthma. By participating, you’re not only helping an important research project but you will also get to find out what air pollutants are in your kitchen when you cook.”
Just a couple of caveats: To participate in the study, you must live in or near Pittsburgh and have a natural gas stove (not propane). Not sure? No problem! You can ask PSE!
Sound interesting? Sign up here. Still on the fence? Check out this video explainer:
Editor’s Note: For more information about the study, visit the project website here, and to learn more about PSE Healthy Energy visit its website here.