Indoor environment quality
The quality of the indoor environment affects human health. Relatively high levels of pollutants from building materials, finishes, paints and backing materials can cause health problems such as irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, headaches and dizziness.
Quick wins
- Plant power. Indoor plants can contribute to a healthy and positive learning environment, as they are natural air purifiers. Plants absorb carbon dioxide, heat, noise and harmful chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). One Australian study is currently investigating whether indoor plants improve the health, wellbeing and productivity - with preliminary results showing levels of VOCs and CO2 concentrations reduced by as much as 10 per cent.
- Clean with green products. Natural cleaning products are healthier for the environment and people. By switching to green cleaning products, you will not only protect our fragile eco-system, but also reduce allergic reactions to chemicals.
Medium-level projects
- Audit your air quality. Ensure your school is well maintained to reduce the occurrence of common biological pollutants such as mould and mildew, as well as dust mites and cockroaches. Air conditioners, ducts, vents and heaters should be regularly serviced and cleaned.
Major invesments
- Insist on green materials. Building materials, furnishings and finishes are some of the largest contributors to indoor air pollution. Minimise the use of VOCs, formaldehyde and synthetic chemical compounds used in glues, resins, stain treatments, dyes and many building materials that will emit potentially harmful gases into the school atmosphere.
- Design for the future. Design new school facilities with indoor air quality in mind. Encourage natural ventilation to counteract build-up of indoor pollutants, introduce systems that monitor and adjust heating and cooling to ensure optimum levels of thermal comfort and create a learning environment with access to external views and natural light.
