Green Building 101: Indoor Environmental Quality

In the US Green Building Council’s LEED program there is a strong focus on Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). This aspect of green building helps improve indoor air quality by enhancing natural daylighting, ventilation, thermal comfort and reducing toxins.

Buildings materials can be a source of pollutants and contaminants and poor building design can compound the effects of these elements to create “sick building syndrome”. Green buildings that are built to a high standard for Indoor Environmental Quality have been shown to be more pleasant and enhance occupant health, experience and performance.

Creating and maintaining a healthy indoor environment can be done by integrating a focus on IEQ with design and finish choices. Opting for low- or no-VOC paints and finishes, and formaldehyde-free products are examples of how to prevent toxins and contaminants from reaching indoor spaces. Designing for natural daylighting and natural ventilation are two more ways to increase IEQ.

There are many facets to this aspect of green building and plenty of resources where you can learn more. Here are a few good places to start:

• US EPA Indoor Air Quality VOCs
• Indoor Environmental Quality at Inhabitat
• Enhance Indoor Environmental Quality IEQ at Whole Building Design Guide