Change the Air Foundation - Brandon Chappo

This week on the Podcast, we take a closer look at the work of Change the Air Foundation and Brandon Chappo , a non-profit organization dedicated to improving indoor air quality by addressing the issues of dampness, mould, and water damage in U.S. buildings.

Its co-founder, Brandon Chappo, brings personal experience to the table; the foundation’s broader mission focuses on systemic change through education, research, and policy reform.

Brandon’s story highlights how mould exposure can lead to various health issues, from respiratory problems to neurological symptoms. His personal health journey started with headaches, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues that puzzled his doctors until one asked about the conditions in his home.

That question proved to be a turning point, leading to the discovery that mould in his apartment was the source of his health problems. Once identified, he was able to take steps to improve his living environment, which greatly improved his health.

Through Change the Air Foundation, Brandon is working to raise awareness about these issues, particularly for people who may not have the resources to easily leave a mould-affected home. This is especially important for lower-income families, who are more likely to live in environments where mould and dampness are common and may not have the means to address the issue.

Addressing a Widespread Problem

Mold and water damage are far more prevalent than many realize, with estimates suggesting that up to 50% of buildings in the U.S. may have mold issues, and some research pushing that number as high as 85%. Mould can cause a wide range of health problems, from respiratory issues to neurological symptoms, and it disproportionately affects lower-income families who may not have the resources to remediate the issue.

The foundation works to raise awareness about the seriousness of these issues and to provide practical resources for those affected. One of the key challenges is the lack of consistent public health information and standardized regulations around mold remediation. Many people are unaware of the potential health impacts or don’t know how to navigate the remediation process. Change the Air Foundation aims to fill that gap.

Building Public Awareness and Offering Resources

A central component of the foundation’s work is its public education efforts. Through its website and other outreach channels, Change the Air Foundation provides free, accessible information on recognising the signs of water damage, how to get professional mould testing, and what to expect during remediation. They offer checklists, guides, and even a "Start Here" section for those navigating mould issues for the first time. These resources are designed to help people take informed steps toward improving the air quality in their homes.

In addition to supporting families dealing with mould, the foundation also focuses on educating professionals in the field. By providing information on the proper certifications and industry standards, they aim to raise the quality of mould remediation practices, ensuring that homes are appropriately treated rather than relying on quick, ineffective fixes.

Driving Policy Change

Policy reform is another critical part of Change the Air Foundation’s mission. One of their most significant achievements to date is the passing of the Mold Remediation Registration Act in Illinois. This law requires all mould remediation professionals in the state to be certified and listed on a public registry. The bill also mandates a public health campaign to educate residents about the risks of mould and how to deal with it.

This legislative victory is a first step in a larger strategy. The foundation views this success as a blueprint for similar efforts in other states. Their focus is on ensuring that mould remediation is carried out by qualified professionals and that residents have access to clear, reliable information about mould-related health risks.

Supporting Research for Long-Term Solutions

Beyond education and policy, Change the Air Foundation is also involved in research initiatives to better understand the long-term health effects of mould exposure. They support studies that aim to correlate environmental testing with patient health data to gain deeper insights into how mould impacts the body. This kind of research is essential for building the evidence needed to push for stronger regulations and public health interventions in the future.

The foundation’s commitment to supporting ongoing research demonstrates its forward-thinking approach. By filling the current gaps in scientific knowledge, they are laying the groundwork for more comprehensive solutions to the mould and water damage problems facing many homes and buildings.

Looking Ahead

Mould and water damage aren’t just maintenance issues—they are public health concerns that can have far-reaching consequences. Through its work in education, research, and policy reform, Change the Air Foundation is helping to tackle this issue from multiple angles. As they continue to expand their efforts, the foundation is laying a foundation for healthier homes and better air quality for everyone.

For more information on the foundation’s resources or to support its mission, visit Change the Air Foundation.

For more information, check out https://www.airqualitymatters.net/podcast

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