Healthy Indoor
While outdoor air pollution from industrial sites, energy generation plants and transportation emissions is a significant contributor to health conditions such as asthma, indoor air can be even more toxic. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has found that indoor air can be five times as polluted as outdoor air.
Since residents spend a sizeable amount of time inside their households it is crucial that air quality be at healthy levels, so that their exposure to harmful pollutants is reduced. A building that has deleterious effects on a resident’s health is obviously not well designed, since it is negatively impacting the long-term well being of the occupant.
To reduce indoor air pollution, building products chosen for use in homes must meet low- or no-toxicity standards. Toxins such as formaldehyde are often found in conventional fiberboard and furniture, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are commonly found in conventional paints and other interior building materials. The same toxins that pollute indoor air and cause respiratory aggravation also manifest in the outdoor environment as smog and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global climate change. The decision to use less toxic building products and materials benefits not only residents, but the community as a whole.
Resources
The American Indoor Air Quality Council: “Is a non-profit association for indoor air quality (IAQ) professionals and technicians. The Council promotes awareness, education, and certification in the field of IAQ through sharing, learning, and networking. Their mission is to act as a source for the collection and dissemination of indoor air quality information to members.”
The Healthy House Institute: “Is an independent resource center that John and Lynn Bower established in 1992. The Institute offers books and videos containing practical information for designers, architects, contractors, and homeowners interested in making houses healthy places in which to live.”
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Indoor Air Quality, Indoor Environments Division (IED): “Coordinates research and develops and implements policies regarding the impact of indoor air pollutants on the general public. The web site includes information on residential buildings.”
