This Is Your Brain On Stale Air

Summary

In this gripping video, Kurtis Baute shares his experience of sealing himself inside a homemade airtight biodome, illustrating the effects of rising carbon dioxide levels on cognitive function. As CO2 levels rise, even slightly elevated concentrations can impair decision-making and focus, with levels in schools and offices often reaching harmful thresholds. Baute explains how the air we breathe—especially in poorly ventilated spaces—can have significant health impacts, from headaches to cognitive decline. He offers both bad and good news, emphasizing the importance of improving air quality and climate action to preserve our cognitive abilities and health.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kurtis Baute sealed himself inside a 10x10x10 ft airtight biodome to explore the impact of carbon dioxide levels on cognitive function.
• 😀 The air inside the biodome currently holds 6,370 parts per million (ppm) of carbon dioxide, which is toxic at high levels.
• 😀 Carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere have risen from 300 ppm 60 years ago to around 400 ppm today due to industrialization and burning fossil fuels.
• 😀 Indoor spaces, especially poorly-ventilated ones, often have CO2 levels above 1,000 ppm, which significantly reduces cognitive function by 15%.
• 😀 Studies have shown that when CO2 levels in classrooms exceed 1,000 ppm, students experience a decrease in cognitive performance.
• 😀 At CO2 levels of 2,000 ppm, symptoms like nausea, loss of concentration, and increased heart rate can occur.
• 😀 High CO2 levels are common in places like bedrooms and cars, where they can reach up to 4,000 ppm.
• 😀 When CO2 levels hit 10,000 ppm, it is unsafe to work in that environment for extended periods, and motorcycle helmets can reach these dangerous levels.
• 😀 Extreme CO2 concentrations, such as 30,000 ppm, can be deadly, but it takes this level to become immediately hazardous to health.
• 😀 Although CO2 levels are predicted to rise significantly by the end of the century, there are actions we can take, such as improving ventilation and supporting climate solutions, to mitigate the risks.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Kurtis Baute's experiment in the biodome?

Kurtis Baute is conducting an experiment to explore the effects of high carbon dioxide levels on human cognitive function and health by sealing himself inside a homemade, airtight biodome filled with plants.

What is the current carbon dioxide level inside Kurtis Baute's biodome?

The current carbon dioxide level inside the biodome is 6,370 parts per million (ppm).

How does Kurtis Baute explain the dangers of high carbon dioxide levels in the biodome?

Kurtis Baute explains that as he exhales carbon dioxide, the levels inside the biodome increase, which can become toxic at high levels. He describes various cognitive impairments and physical symptoms as the levels rise, such as nausea, dizziness, and decreased concentration.

What cognitive effects are observed at 1,000 parts per million of carbon dioxide?

At 1,000 parts per million of carbon dioxide, there is a 15% decrease in cognitive function, which affects decision-making abilities.

What did the studies in Texas, Idaho, and Washington reveal about carbon dioxide levels in classrooms?

The studies found that over 50% of classrooms had carbon dioxide levels exceeding 1,000 parts per million. When levels reached 1,400 ppm, cognitive function decreased by 50%, and at 2,000 ppm, students experienced side effects like headaches and sleepiness.

What carbon dioxide level is typically found in bedrooms and cars?

Carbon dioxide levels in bedrooms and cars often reach around 4,000 parts per million, which is considered unsafe.

Why is carbon dioxide used as an indicator for stale air, and why is it significant?

Carbon dioxide is used as an indicator of stale air because high levels signify that oxygen levels may be low, leading to poor ventilation. It is significant because elevated carbon dioxide levels can impair cognitive function and overall health.

What are the health risks associated with carbon dioxide levels reaching 10,000 parts per million?

At 10,000 parts per million, it is advised not to work in such an environment for an eight-hour day due to long-term health risks. It could impair cognitive abilities and pose serious health dangers.

What does Kurtis Baute predict about future carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere?

Kurtis Baute predicts that carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere could reach 695 parts per million by the end of the century, which could lead to a 10% to 16% decrease in cognitive function on a global scale.

What are some potential solutions to address the impact of carbon dioxide on our health and the environment?

Solutions include improving ventilation systems, using plants to absorb carbon dioxide, opening windows, and taking action to combat climate change to reduce carbon emissions.