Researchers demonstrated that a genetically modified household plant could effectively reduce the levels of several common indoor air pollutants.
Many of us go to great lengths to keep the air clean in our homes. We vacuum, sweep, and install air filters to clear out allergens and get rid of dust.
But unfortunately, many of the hazardous particles in our homes are too tiny for conventional filters to catch.
Now, researchers from the University of Washington genetically modified the pothos ivy — a popular houseplant — to help get the job done.
The modified plants are able to sufficiently remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as benzene and chloroform, from the air in homes at useful rates, according to a new study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.