Scientists want gas stoves in homes to be discouraged. 

A new report by the Menzies Institute for Medical Research and the Centre for Air Pollution, Energy and Health Research (CAR), shows using gas for cooking and heating can produce a variety of air pollutants that affect lung health, especially for those with asthma. 

The report says around 12 per cent of childhood asthma is attributed to gas cooking stoves. 

“That is a huge number when we consider that Australia has around 460,000 children with asthma,” says Professor Graeme Zosky — CAR's chief investigator.

“Marketing campaigns have promoted the idea that cooking with gas isn't only the most efficient way of cooking, but that gas is a clean way to cook and heat homes.

“In reality, gas use in the home worsens air quality and this has impacts on people's health and, in particular, their respiratory health.

“We know there are a variety of steps people can take to minimise the risk to their health when it comes to gas use inside the home, including improved ventilation and replacing your gas appliances with electric ones.”

Researchers say governments should incentivise safer alternatives, through subsidy schemes for low-income households and policies to ensure better ventilation of homes.

“Incentives should also be provided to allow schools, workplaces and residential aged care facilities to monitor their air quality and [to] meet these new indoor standards,” Professor Zosky said.

More details are accessible here.