Effective indoor air quality for energy efficient homes: a comparison of UK rating schemes

Grainne McGill, Lukumon O. Oyedele, Keith McAllister, Menghao Qin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Citations (Scopus)
7 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The use of sustainable assessment methods in the UK is on the rise, anticipating the future regulatory trajectory towards zero carbon by 2016. The indisputable influence of sustainable rating tools on UK building regulations conveys the importance of evaluating their effectiveness in achieving true sustainable design, without adversely effecting human health and well-being. This paper reviews indoor air quality issues addressed by UK sustainable assessment tools, and the potential trade-offs between building energy conservation and indoor air quality. The barriers to effective adoption of indoor air quality strategies are investigated, including recommendations, suggestions and future research needs. The review identified a fundamental lack of indoor air quality criteria in sustainable assessment tools aimed at the residential sector. The consideration of occupants’ health and well-being should be paramount in any assessment scheme, and should not be overshadowed or obscured by the drive towards energy efficiency. A balance is essential.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)159-173
Number of pages15
JournalArchitectural Science Review
Volume59
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 Sept 2015

Keywords

  • sustainable assessment tools
  • indoor air quality
  • sustainability criteria
  • energy-efficient homes
  • UK eco-homes
  • zero carbon

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