The myths of indoor air pollution
A popular myth holds that building energy conservation measures, implemented since the oil crises of the 1970s, cause indoor air pollution problems. This myth ignores the fact that most indoor air pollutant sources have little or nothing to do with energy conservation. Air studied inside buildings before 1973 was found to be more polluted than outdoor air even during severe air pollution events. In fact, only two types of conservation measures directly increase indoor air pollutant concentrations: inappropriately reduced ventilation and using sealants and caulks that emit pollutants. The myth ignores the fundamental responsibility (and ability) of architects, engineers, and building operators to create indoor environments that are both extremely habitable and environmentally responsible. Architects and other building design professionals must provide safe, healthy, and comfortable environments; minimize damage to the environment; and conserve energy and other resources. Achieving good indoor air quality (IAQ) is as essential as providing comfortable, healthy thermal conditions and functional, aesthetically sound lighting and acoustical environments. Reducing ventilation to conserve energy certainly increases concentrations of pollutants emitted from indoor sources. Adequate ventilation is essential to achieving and maintaining good IAQ. But there are many factors that determine IAQ and their interdependence is strong. Although ventilation is an important way to limit pollutant concentrations, limiting pollutant sources is far more effective. Pollutants from indoor sources that cannot be eliminated should be minimized by careful planning, design, specification, and construction. The preventive approach costs very little and it saves energy. 6 refs., 7 tabs.
- OSTI ID:
- 6476083
- Journal Information:
- Progressive Architecture; (United States), Journal Name: Progressive Architecture; (United States) Vol. 74:3; ISSN PGRAAM; ISSN 0033-0752
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Strategic direction for the IAQ industry
Impact of the humidity pump on indoor environments. Final report, August 1989-November 1990
Related Subjects
320107* -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Building Systems-- (1987-)
ADHESIVES
AIR POLLUTION
BINDERS
BUILDING MATERIALS
CAULKING
COATINGS
COMPOSITE MATERIALS
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
MATERIALS
MINIMIZATION
OPTIMIZATION
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
ORGANIC POLYMERS
PAINTS
PETROCHEMICALS
PETROLEUM PRODUCTS
POLLUTION
POLLUTION SOURCES
POLYMERS
RESINS
SEALING MATERIALS
STATIONARY POLLUTANT SOURCES
VENTILATION
VENTILATION SYSTEMS