What is the role of occupants in maintaining indoor air quality?

The role of occupants in maintaining indoor air quality is fundamentally tied to their actions and habits within the indoor environment. Regular cleaning and reducing clutter are crucial because dust, allergens, and pollutants can accumulate in living spaces, directly impacting air quality. For example, dust mites, pet dander, and mold can thrive in cluttered environments, leading to respiratory issues and other health problems. By cleaning regularly, occupants can remove these harmful particles from their living areas, thus promoting a healthier indoor air environment.

Furthermore, clutter can restrict airflow and create pockets of stagnant air, exacerbating issues with humidity and increasing the chance for mold growth. Therefore, occupants play an essential role in proactively ensuring the cleanliness and orderliness of their indoor spaces, which directly contributes to better overall air quality.

The other options do not align with the most effective occupant actions for directly improving indoor air quality. For instance, avoiding outdoor air pollution is not always within the occupant's control, and minimizing time spent indoors may not be a practical or effective solution for most people. Additionally, relying solely on chemical products for cleaning could introduce new pollutants into the indoor environment, rather than improving air quality.