Air quality is a global concern that has captured significant attention, especially with the increase in pollution levels and the impact of wildfire smoke in North America. However, much of the data we study pertains to outdoor air quality, and this, according to Harvard University professors Joseph Allen and John Macomber, is an oversight. The co-authors of ‘Healthy Buildings: How Indoor Spaces Can Make You Sick – or Keep You Well,’ argue that the majority of our lives, about 90 per cent, is spent indoors, and thus indoor air quality warrants equal, if not more, attention.
Indoor air quality significantly differs from outdoor air quality and can often be worse due to the build-up of contaminants within our buildings. Outdoor pollutants such as PM 2.5, tiny particles that can penetrate our lungs and cause cardiovascular issues, can effortlessly infiltrate our homes and offices through windows, crevices, and inadequately maintained ventilation systems. Our exposure to outdoor pollution primarily occurs indoors. Further, the indoor sources of pollution, particularly in sealed modern buildings, exacerbate this issue.
Toxic gases emitted by Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can be found in household substances such as soap, deodorants, and furniture coverings. Indoor air quality is also impacted by fragrant sprays used to mask unpleasant smells, typically packed with VOCs. Despite the constant interaction with indoor air, our primary focus remains fixated on the outdoor air quality.
COVID-19 has brought about a significant change in this outlook. While organizations like the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization initially dismissed the aerosol transmission theory of COVID-19, the evidence has conclusively shown that the virus can spread via small aerosol droplets in an infected person’s breath. This understanding has shifted the spotlight to the ventilation and air filtration systems in our buildings, our primary defense against airborne infections.
The importance of improving indoor air quality cannot be overstated. An effective strategy relies on two essential elements: ventilation and filtration. Ventilation helps dilute the concentration of particles by bringing fresh air into the room, and filtration aids in removing infected particles from the air. To improve indoor air quality, we need to enhance ventilation and upgrade air filters to trap external contaminants effectively.
Indoor air quality also has a profound impact on cognitive performance. Macomber’s research indicates that productivity in the workplace and student performance are negatively affected by low-quality air and significantly improved with high-quality air. Therefore, investing in indoor air quality is not just a health concern but can also be a significant contributor to productivity and performance.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has resurfaced research into healthy buildings, marking a convergence of green, smart, and healthy buildings. As we move forward, it’s essential to remember that improving indoor air quality is not just about preventing disease transmission but also about enhancing cognitive performance and overall wellbeing.
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