Topic overview
In brief
- Americans spend about 90 percent of their time indoors, with indoor pollutants often at higher concentrations than outdoors.
- Recent advancements in technology allow for real-time monitoring of building performance, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
- Organizations can achieve healthier buildings without exceeding budgets by prioritizing air quality and engaging in early planning.
Summary
In the United States, the importance of indoor air quality in buildings has been increasingly recognized, especially as Americans spend about 90 percent of their time indoors. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has noted that indoor pollutant concentrations can be significantly higher than outdoor levels, raising concerns about health and safety. As utility costs rise, leaders in various sectors are questioning how to create healthier buildings without exceeding budgets. Recent advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence, are enabling real-time monitoring of building performance, which can lead to improved operational efficiency and reduced costs. The Pennsylvania-based building stewardship firm has been advising various organizations for over 25 years, emphasizing that it is possible to construct better buildings at lower life-cycle costs. The firm’s philosophy has evolved with technology, advocating for smarter, high-performance buildings that enhance air quality through better filtration, airflow control, and ventilation. Eighmy highlights that the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for healthier buildings, yet many organizations still fail to prioritize air quality in their planning processes. By engaging in early planning and utilizing the right technologies, organizations can achieve a balance between health, cost, and environmental impact. The firm also suggests that sometimes, it may be more beneficial to avoid new construction altogether if it leads to better outcomes for health and sustainability.