What role do sustainable materials play in improving indoor air quality?

Sustainable materials are like air purifiers built right into your walls! They minimise the release of toxins (airborne toxins) found in conventional materials, opting for natural options (natural options) that breathe easier. Think bamboo floors instead of synthetic carpets, and you've got a recipe for cleaner air. Sustainable design even considers a building's "ventilation system" (ventilation aspect), ensuring proper airflow to dilute and remove any pollutants that might linger. The result? A healthier you, living in a space that prioritises your well-being (healthier living). It's a win-win for people and the plan!

0Km building materials Regeneration plan sourced Locally crafted 3 key factors to design and built consciously sustainable Architecture and Design Matteo Fantoni

With rising environmental awareness, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, tackling resource depletion and pollution, and improving waste management are now global priorities. The challenge is to design sustainable systems that minimize air pollutants. Building materials in general significantly contribute to indoor air pollution, making genuinely green products crucial for good indoor air quality. However, many products labeled as green, natural, or organic often lack scientific proof and clear criteria for their claims, especially recycled and reused materials.

Sustainable materials are more than just a building choice; they're a sensory experience. Clay houses offer a freshness reminiscent of morning breezes or the first rain after a scorching day. Clay breathes, regulating humidity and creating a healthy atmosphere free of harmful chemicals. It reminds me of my grandmother's cool hut, a refuge for fresh and cool air. Sustainable materials aren't just about eco-consciousness; they're about creating spaces that connect us to our senses and the natural world, homes that truly let us breathe.

Natural materials like earth, clay, wood, flax, reed, straw, and sheep wool emit low levels of (semi-)volatile organic compounds ((S)VOCs), formaldehyde, and radon, positively impacting indoor human health and well-being. Earth plaster absorbs pollutants, regulates temperature, and improves air quality. Clay and sheep wool regulate indoor humidity and temperature. Earth materials are recommended in interior spaces with their array of benefits including an improvement in indoor air quality.

Natural materials are one of the most incredible options to replace toxic construction materials, however, I would like to highlight that recyclable materials and limiting the use of virgin natural materials are also highly recommended to preserve the natural resources for the next generations. So, it is not just a word to recommend using natural materials without study, A deep study should address the natural materials available in the construction region and the recyclable options to see which has the lowest impact on Mother Nature. Still, I recommend spending more time and effort in manufacturing research to minimize the toxic particulars within the construction materials.

Biodegradable and Renewable: Natural materials such as bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood are often biodegradable and renewable, and they typically have lower levels of harmful emissions. Inherent Benefits: These materials often have beneficial properties such as natural anti-microbial features and lower allergenic potential.

Natural and Non-Toxic Components Most of sustainable materials originate from natural substances that are free from toxic components, thus minimizing the risks posed by hazardous elements within homes and offices. For example: Natural Fiber Carpets: They are often weaved from wool, jute or sisal – these carpets do not release hazardous chemicals. Natural Paints and Finishes: Cosmetics containing plant oils, natural colorants, and other environmental friendly substances emit less hazardous fumes than other cosmetics made using other compounds.

Breathability is crucial for buildings, much like it is for humans. Using local materials like stone, mud, wool, cellulose etc., allows buildings to breathe. Poor breathability leads to overuse of energy for heating and cooling, as buildings fail to facilitate natural heat exchange, making them too cold in winter and too hot in summer. A good analogy is wearing socks and tight shoes made of non-breathable materials, which cause sweating and discomfort. In contrast, leather shoes allow air flow, providing insulation that keeps heat inside when needed and lets it escape when it's not, maintaining comfort and efficiency.

Ventilation is the logical solution for the emitted materials, But we don't speak only about the ventilation during the building operation and after occupancy. The key solution is the ventilation during the construction, so it is recommended to have an indoor air quality plan and follow its requirements during the construction. one of those requirements is to allow high-VOC materials to be off-gas prior to installation and If any high-VOC products are specified, work areas shall be isolated and exhausted to the exterior, and only workers with the appropriate PPE shall be allowed in that area. that plus the high-VOC materials should be stored separately in special zones with enough ventilation to avoid emissions to absorbed materials.

Having lowered VOC, etc emissions, from the materials and products used, the next major point of focus needs to be the ventilation systems. Especially the ventilation effectiveness. Where natural ventilation can be maximized optimal IAQ will result. However, often due to ambient temperature, humidity and/or other factors like external pollution or noise, natural ventilation potential may be limited, or not feasible. Hence the nature of the premises, the IAQ profile, as well as heating and cooling considerations, all are part of the criteria for assessing and designing optimal ventilation configurations.

Design Considerations: Sustainable building materials are often used in designs that emphasize natural ventilation and airflow, which can help remove indoor pollutants and bring in fresh air. Passive Design Strategies: Utilizing passive design strategies with sustainable materials can enhance natural ventilation, reduce reliance on mechanical systems, and improve indoor air quality.

Design Integration: Sustainable building designs often incorporate natural ventilation strategies, improving air circulation and reducing the concentration of indoor pollutants. Mechanical Systems: When used in conjunction with high-efficiency HVAC systems, sustainable materials can contribute to better air filtration and reduced recirculation of pollutants.

Moisture Regulation Some of the materials that are renewable include bamboo, cork, and certain types of woods that can help to maintain the humidity levels within the house. This helps to minimize the chances of mold as well as mildew formation that is known to pose a threat to the quality of air in the building. These will therefore assist in maintaining the quality of the indoor air through absorbing and releasing moisture.

Sustainable materials often have lower embodied energy, requiring less energy for production, transport, and installation, which reduces your project's carbon footprint and supports environmental sustainability. Prioritizing non-toxic, low-VOC materials enhances occupant health and well-being. Additionally, these materials are typically easier to dispose of or recycle, reducing environmental harm and supporting circular economy principles. Considering the lifecycle impact of materials promotes a healthier indoor environment and aligns with responsible, forward-thinking design practices that benefit both people and the planet.

Longer Lifespan: Durable sustainable materials reduce the need for frequent replacements and renovations, which can release dust, particles, and VOCs into the air. Waste Reduction: By reducing material waste, sustainable options minimize the production and disposal processes that contribute to air pollution. Lower Impact Manufacturing: The use of recycled and reclaimed materials often involves less intensive manufacturing processes, which can result in fewer pollutants and emissions both indoors and during production. Resource Efficiency: Utilizing existing materials reduces the demand for new resources, limiting the overall environmental impact and potential indoor pollutant sources.

Enhanced Ventilation In some instances, sustainable building and construction entails the utilization of building materials and technology that enhances natural ventilation with a view to enhancing the indoor air quality. For example: Breathable Wall Systems: Some designs through use of lime plaster or clay enables the outer wall facades to “breathe,” hence circulating fresh air within the inner room atmosphere and minimizing the stale air with indoor pollutants.

To increase carbon sinks and facilitate eco system services from wood or pauludi culture it's imperative to increase the share of renewables building materials for the building sectors. Research already quantifies the positive effect of the increased usage of renewable building materials. However for many resources used in former days like reed there are only few companies left, which work with such a Material. Strengthening the value chain and make kick start them again will not be possible without a good economic framework embedded in local policies.

Non-Toxic Treatments and Finishes: Sustainable materials often utilize non-toxic treatments and finishes, reducing the release of harmful chemicals into the indoor environment. Eco-Friendly Adhesives: The use of eco-friendly adhesives and sealants in sustainable materials minimizes the release of hazardous substances.

A sustainable working environment has been proven through research, that employees who work for companies that have made sustainability and green practices a priority in their work/building environment have employees that are far more productive. It was also found that a sustainable workplace instills an overall positive work environment, including less employees calling in sick.

Healthier living applies to the home, the workplace, etc - it also applies to schools, child care, aged care, hospitals, etc. Often the IAQ of the built environment is not considered robustly or at all. However, there are clear health benefits. Further, it is readily available to measure and record the IAQ in any premises - thereby enabling to show that the environment is very healthy. This doesn't only mean that the organisation can show they care - although this alone is substantial. It also has a direct benefit to all occupants and thereby results in positive outcomes in terms of reduced illness rates and general improved health & associated productivity. All that said - how often does a child care facility promoted it's IAQ? Hmmm....

Sustainable or environmentally conscious buildings may come with higher initial costs due to sustainable materials; however, these buildings are designed to last a lifetime. This makes life cycle cost analysis essential when comparing materials and allocating investments in a building development budget. With advancements in material technology, the cost gap between traditional and sustainable materials is closing. Additionally, growing occupant awareness and interest in environmentally friendly practices are likely to increase the market value of developments featuring these sustainable attributes. Incorporating sustainable materials can also lead to significant savings in maintenance and energy costs over the building’s lifetime.

This depends of who is building it an who is living in their. Building your own house you would not hesitate doe make a healthy house to life in that. Developing real estate projects to increase profits there are bigger barriers to overcome. Without internalizing extern effects like low carbon storage, better living quality thought higher health standard the main indicator will be the direct costs for the building materials. However, many renewable materials, especially secondary materials, e.g. reed, lacks currently a competitive value chain. Additionally focusing on circular economy it will be imperative to construct buildings in this way that a reuse of the used materials will be mandatory

Using eco-friendly, low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) materials in kitchen design minimizes harmful emissions, creating a healthier environment for staff and guests. Sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, recycled metals, and natural fibers not only reduce pollutants but also enhance ventilation efficiency. By integrating these materials, we not only protect our planet but also ensure a safe, breathable space that promotes well-being and productivity. Sustainable design is a win-win for both health and the environment. #SustainableDesign #IndoorAirQuality #HealthySpaces

Architects and designers should find the right balance between what is logical and healthy environment and prioritize human perspective and health before other benefits. If the choice comes down to a single person, then the mindset and preferences will play the main role. We all have info about the latest information and trends, but we are all lacking in human focus approach. Being sustainable is not only about savings, nature cycles and benefits. It is about “right mindset and measure” that is a bit lost in the latest context.

User of sustainable materials in end-user products often comes with its own challenges. One should consider the after life of the product , and the waste management systems that are used in their country. While using stainable materials in any product or packaging the importance of enducating the enduser on reposible disposale of the product plays a huge role. In certain end-user products such as otc products the use of sustainable materials and packaging plays a huge role as most of these product are incenerated to avoid infections. And in these senarios use of sustainable matierals over traditional plastic products can significantly reduce the CO2 emission produced by the incenerations of such products.

Reduction of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Low or Zero VOC Emissions: Many sustainable materials are designed to emit fewer volatile organic compounds compared to traditional materials. VOCs, commonly found in paints, adhesives, and finishes, can cause various health problems, including headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues. Using low or zero VOC products helps to maintain healthier indoor air. Natural Alternatives: Sustainable materials often use natural alternatives to synthetic chemicals, reducing the overall VOC load in indoor environments.

Volatile organic compounds are chemicals used in everything such as paint, cosmetics, soap, glue, fuel, pesticides, furniture even the bed that you sleep in. They consist of Benzene, Acetone, Ethanol, Methanol, Formaldehyde, Isoamyl alcohol, Butanol and evaporate as gas which we inhale. VOC's in huge amounts cause cancer. Ozone is formed when VOC's react with ultraviolet rays and we should design products to be VOC's free.