Indoor Air Quality: The Power of Natural Ventilation
Today, it is estimated that we spend around 90% of our time indoors. Unsurprisingly, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) has become an increasing concern. Maybe many don’t realize that indoor air can be substantially more polluted than outdoor air, explaining the sudden various health problem, we can name a few: allergies, respiratory difficulties, insomnia, etc…
What causes indoor air pollution?
Indoor air pollution comes from various sources, including cleaning products, building materials, occupancy, etc. In contrast, outdoor air is generally of better quality due to natural air movements that help disperse pollutants. The question is, how can we tackle indoor air pollution?
Although it seems impossible, there is a simple, cost-effective, eco-friendly solution for improving IAQ: natural ventilation can improve IAQ by introducing fresh air from the outside and improving indoor air circulation. Opening the windows to allow outdoor air to enter indoor spaces is a way to accomplish this, reducing indoor pollutants concentration. Natural ventilation has several other benefits, including reduced energy costs, improved mood and productivity, and a lower risk of airborne illnesses.
According to a study, natural ventilation can significantly reduce indoor air pollution and provide a more comfortable indoor environment while reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The same study recommends that natural ventilation included in buildings can be a viable option for improving IAQ and promoting energy efficiency.
In conclusion, natural ventilation offers a straightforward and effective solution for improving indoor air quality. By introducing fresh air from the outside and improving indoor air circulation, natural ventilation can reduce the concentration of indoor air pollutants and provide a range of other benefits. With the support of scientific research, natural ventilation can become an integral part of our efforts to improve IAQ and promote sustainable building practices.