Indoor air quality requirements in green building certifications

Green building certifications aim to achieve sustainable buildings that are healthy, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly. To construct healthy built environments for occupants, a high indoor environment quality (IEQ) has to be maintained. 

The average contribution of IAQ to green building schemes worldwide is 7.5%. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and carbon dioxide (CO2) are the indoor air pollutants most frequently considered. Ozone (O3) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) are mentioned in less than 6.7% of the certifications worldwide. Emission source control, ventilation, and indoor air measurement are the three main pathways used in green building schemes for IAQ management. All of the certifications include ventilation as a way to manage IAQ. Emission source control is included in 77% of the certifications and is mainly targeted at building material emissions. Indoor air measurement is included in 65% of the certifications but may be optional.

Sapiens indoor air quality monitors which are equipped with sensors for particulate matter,  CO2, TVOC, temperature, and relative humidity can maximize the efficiency of your HVAC system, eliminating energy waste while simultaneously ensuring a safe, healthy interior environment.