I’m noticing it more and more. Sprays of orange, lilacs and plumeria are being pumped into the air.

Air fresheners mask odors in play spaces for kids, airport lounges, restaurant bathrooms and lobbies in fancy condos. The irony is that these so-called “fresh” scents are toxic.

Many are filled with chemicals that trigger asthma, migraines and other deleterious effects, not to mention harming the environment.

When we already have to deal with vog, car emissions, fireworks and other air pollution, why compromise our health and the environment even more? Are faux fragrances worth the negative impact? Can alternatives like fresh flowers or essential oils be considered?

I only hope businesses and consumers are aware of its consequences and will make choices to benefit everyone as a whole.

Brandi-Ann Uyemura

Mililani

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