But when stuck inside the porous surfaces isn't the problem mostly when they become airborne again?

Most of us don't eat wooden furniture -- granted my toddler didn't get the memo :)

Thus, continuous ventilation (while not perfect) is hopefully still a decent alternative. Probably better than active charcoal filter.

Granted I should probably out a charcoal filter on the ventilation intake to reduce pollutants coming in from nearby traffic. (All depending on your level of paranoia)