Enhance Indoor Air Quality Research Articles

Self-assembled nanoflower-mediated interfacial polymerization through tunable intra- and inter-layer channels to boost total heat exchange performance

Total heat exchange membranes (THEMs) are vital for minimizing energy consumption and enhancing indoor air quality in energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems. Manipulating the surface morphology of polyamide (PA) membranes via nanofiller-mediated interfacial polymerization is key to advancing total heat recovery performance. This study presented the fabrication of PA thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) membranes by integrating self-assembled poly(amic acid-imide) nanoflowers (P(AA-I)-NFs) with intertwined nanosheets into the organic phase. This facile approach effectively eliminated nonselective interphase voids and defects, owing to the superior polymer affinity of the organic nanoflowers. The finely tuned intra- and inter-layer channels within P(AA-I)-NFs significantly impacted monomer mass transfer, facilitated the shuttle effect, expanded the interfacial polymerization zone, and led to the formation of a rougher, thicker PA layer with enhanced surface area. The optimized P(AA-I)-NFs/PA TFN membranes exhibited outstanding performance, including CO₂ permeability of 0.51 GPU, water vapor permeability of 656.59 GPU, and an enthalpy exchange efficiency of 71.47 %, surpassing the trade-off limitations typically observed in commercial and other advanced THEMs. These findings underscored the potential of P(AA-I)-NFs-mediated TFN membranes as highly competitive candidates for next-generation ERV systems.

Factors Affecting the Indoor Air Quality and Occupants’ Thermal Comfort in Urban Agglomeration Regions in the Hot and Humid Climate of Pakistan

The World Air Quality Index indicates that Pakistan ranks as the third most polluted country, regarding the average (Particulate Matter) PM2.5 concentration, which is 14.2 times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual air quality guideline. It is crucial to implement a program aimed at reducing PM2.5 levels in Pakistan’s urban areas. This review paper highlights the importance of indoor air pollution in urban regions such as Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, and Karachi, while also considering the effects of outdoor air temperature on occupants’ thermal comfort. The study aims to evaluate past methodological approaches to enhance indoor air quality in buildings. The main research question is to address whether there are statistical correlations between the PM2.5 and the operative air temperature and whether other indoor climatic variables have an impact on the thermal comfort assessment in densely built urban agglomeration regions in Pakistan. A systematic review analysis method was employed to investigate the effects of particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon oxides (COx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on residents’ health. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) protocol guided the identification of key terms and the extraction of cited studies. The literature review incorporated a combination of descriptive research methods to inform the research context regarding both ambient and indoor air quality, providing a theoretical and methodological framework for understanding air pollution and its mitigation in various global contexts. The study found a marginally significant relationship between the PM2.5 operative air temperature and occupants’ overall temperature satisfaction, Ordinal Regression (OR) = 0.958 (95%—Confidence Interval (CI) [0.918, 1.000]), p = 0.050, Nagelkerke − Regression (R2) = 0.042. The study contributes to research on the development of an evidence-based thermal comfort assessment benchmark criteria for the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Global Thermal Comfort Database version 2.1.

Evaluating the Implementation of Green Building Materials in the Construction Sector of Developing Nations

The use of conventional building materials in the construction sector significantly contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in considerable environmental damage across Pakistan. Embracing sustainable building materials is crucial for mitigating pollution, conserving energy, and enhancing indoor air quality through the utilization of recycled and renewable resources, reducing environmental pollution. The focus of this study is to explore the adoption of green building materials within Pakistan's construction sector, particularly aiming to mitigate environmental impacts, including air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The objectives include identification of sustainable materials, evaluation of their benefits and drawbacks, and the provision of recommendations for effective implementation. The research methodology includes the administration of closed-ended questionnaires, the conduct of interviews, and the observation process, utilizing both planned and random sampling techniques to ensure the collection of reliable data. The findings indicate a limited interest in eco-friendly materials, constrained by factors such as high costs, low market demand, and logistical challenges. Cronbach's alpha value is 0.926, which shows high internal consistency and reliability. The study highlights that 73% of construction firms in Pakistan do not use green building materials. This research distinguishes itself through a thorough evaluation of sustainable materials specifically suited to Pakistan’s industry, providing strategic insights to address current challenges and foster green building practices. Doi: 10.28991/HEF-2024-05-03-015 Full Text: PDF

Assessment of seasonal variations in dry eye syndrome prevalence among office workers

Background: Dry eye syndrome (DES) is prevalent among office workers and influenced by various environmental and individual factors. This study assesses the prevalence, seasonal variations, symptom severity, and environmental influences on DES among office workers. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to assess the prevalence of DES among office workers in Warangal, Telangana, India, and to evaluate the impact of seasonal variations, symptom severity, and environmental factors on DES. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 office workers aged 25–55 years old. Data were collected through questionnaires on DES symptoms, environmental conditions, and demographics. The prevalence of DES was calculated, and seasonal variations were analyzed. Symptom severity was recorded on a scale from 1 to 10. Environmental factors such as humidity, air-conditioning use, screen time, and indoor air quality were examined for their correlation with DES prevalence. Results: The overall prevalence of DES was 45%, with females showing a higher prevalence (50%) compared to males (37.5%). Seasonal variations showed the highest DES prevalence in winter (40%) and the lowest in summer (16%). Symptom severity scores were highest in winter (6.5 overall) and lowest in summer (3.8 overall). Low humidity in winter was associated with a 55% prevalence of DES, especially among females (65%). High air-conditioning use in summer correlated with a lower DES prevalence (12.5%). Increased screen time (>6 h/day) resulted in a 60% prevalence of DES, with seasonal peaks in winter (65%). Poor indoor air quality was reported by 70% of participants and linked to a 50% prevalence of DES. Conclusion: The study highlights significant gender differences, seasonal variations, and environmental factors impacting DES prevalence and severity among office workers. Interventions focusing on improving workplace conditions, managing screen time, and enhancing indoor air quality may mitigate DES symptoms.

Evaluating Indoor Air Quality in Schools: Is the Indoor Environment a Haven during High Pollution Episodes?

Pollution data were collected at five schools in Hong Kong using low-cost, sensor-based monitors both indoors and outdoors during two consecutive high pollution episodes. The pollutants monitored included NO2, O3, PM2.5, and PM10, which were also used as input to a health risk communication protocol known as Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). CO2 was also measured simultaneously. The study aimed to assess the relationship between indoor pollutant concentrations and AQHI levels with those outdoors and to evaluate the efficacy of building operating practices in protecting students from pollution exposure. The results indicate that the regular air quality monitoring stations and outdoor pollutant levels at schools exhibit similar patterns. School AQHI levels indoors were generally lower than those outdoors, with PM10 levels showing a larger proportional contribution to the calculated values indoors. NO2 levels in one school were in excess of outdoor values. CO2 monitored in classrooms commonly exceeded indoor guidelines, suggesting poor ventilation. One school that employed air filtration had lower indoor PM concentrations compared to other schools; however, they were still similar to those outdoors. O3 levels indoors were consistently lower than those outdoors. This study underscores the utility of on-site, sensor-based monitoring for assessing the health impacts of indoor and community exposure to urban air pollutants. The findings suggest a need for improved ventilation and more strategic air intake placement to enhance indoor air quality.

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN STRATEGY AND ITS IMPACT ON SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS

Sustainable environmental design solutions are crucial to reducing negative environmental impacts and maximizing the comfort of building inhabitants. This article emphasizes how these practices and ideas affect building performance and delves into the essentials of sustainable environmental design. Energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable material use, and renewable energy source integration are some of the measures examined in the project, which aim to lessen environmental consequences and promote sustainability. This study aims to illuminate effective, sustainable design solutions by analyzing current case studies and sustainable building certifications like LEED and BREEAM. Modern ventilation systems, green roofs, and passive solar architecture are just a few examples of the creative ideas shown in these case studies that help make buildings more sustainable. Considerations of economics, regulatory frameworks, and technical developments are among the opportunities and threats that the article lists as consequences of embracing sustainable design approaches. The findings show that sustainable environmental design offers many economic and social benefits, including reduced operational costs, enhanced indoor air quality, and increased occupant happiness. The paper concludes with suggestions for how sustainable design concepts might be more widely used in architectural practices and policy frameworks to create truly sustainable built environments. It argues for a comprehensive strategy that combines economic, social, and environmental objectives.

Air mycobiome in the National Library of Greece following relocation to novel premises

The aim of this work was to study the diversity and spatiotemporal fluctuations of airborne fungi in the National Library of Greece after its relocation from the Vallianeio historic building in the center of Athens to entirely new premises at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, and also to compare the fungal aerosol in between the two sites. The air mycobiota were studied by a volumetric culture-based method, during the year 2019 in order to assess their diversity and abundance and to compare with those previously reported in the historic building. Twenty-eight genera of filamentous fungi were recovered indoors and 17 outdoors, in addition to yeasts registered as a group. The number of fungal genera recovered was almost similar in both premises, whereas seventeen genera indoors were identical, dominated by Penicillium, Cladosporium and Aspergillus. The mean daily fungal concentration was found to be 66 CFU m−3 indoors and 927 CFU m−3 outdoors in the new location vs 293 and 428 CFU m−3 indoors and 707 and 648 CFU m−3 outdoors in the previous one. The mean daily concentration indoors was consistently and significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the new building than in the historic one, although it was higher outdoors. The indoor/outdoor ratio for the total fungi was 0.07 in the new vs 0.41 and 0.66 in the previous one and reveals a superior indoor air quality in the new site. Air temperature and occupancy had a statistically significant impact on the concentration of indoor fungi. The remarkably reduced concentration of the mycobiota in the new premises indicated a considerable decline in fungal burden, mainly due to technological excellency of the facility and continuous preventive measures to ensure an enhanced indoor air quality in the National Library of Greece. This case study provides a paradigm about upgrading of indoor air after re-establishment of a facility in another setting.

Effectiveness of a suction device for containment of pathogenic aerosols and droplets.

As the global community begins recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges due to its aftermath remain. This health crisis has highlighted challenges associated with airborne pathogens and their capacity for rapid transmission. While many solutions have emerged to tackle this challenge, very few devices exist that are inexpensive, easy to manufacture, and versatile enough for various settings. This paper presents a novel suction device designed to counteract the spread of aerosols and droplets and be cost-effective and adaptable to diverse environments. We also conducted an experimental study to evaluate the device's effectiveness using an artificial cough generator, a particle counter, and a mannequin in an isolated system. We measured droplet removal rates with simulated single and repeated cough incidents. Also, measurements were taken at four distinct areas to compare its effectiveness on direct plume versus indirect particle removal. The device reduced airborne disease transmission risk, as evidenced by its capacity to decrease the half-life of aerosol volume from 23.6 minutes to 15.6 minutes, effectively capturing aerosol-sized droplets known for their extended airborne persistence. The suction device lessened the peak total droplet volume from peak counts. At 22 minutes post peak droplet count, the count had dropped 24% without the suction device and 43% with the suction device. The experiment's findings confirm the suction device's capability to effectively remove droplets from the environment, making it a vital tool in enhancing indoor air quality. Given the sustained performance of the suction device irrespective of single or multiple cough events, this demonstrates its potential utility in reducing the risk of airborne disease transmission. 3D printing for fabrication opens the possibility of a rapid iterative design process, flexibility for different configurations, and rapid global deployment for future pandemics.

The presence of Mo and O double vacancies in Bi2W0.25Mo0.75O6 solid solution promotes photogenerated charge separation and molecular oxygen activation for efficient removal of gaseous toluene under visible light

Enhancing indoor air quality and devising efficient technologies for the degradation of low-concentration volatile organic compounds (VOCs) represent pertinent topics in current research endeavors. In this study, a one-step hydrothermal method was employed to successfully synthesize a Bi2W0.25Mo0.75O6 solid solution photocatalyst featuring Mo and O double vacancies. The catalyst has excellent degradation effect on low concentration (30 ppm) gaseous toluene within 60 min of visible light irradiation, which can achieve 95.36 % in air atmosphere and 99.79 % in pure oxygen atmosphere. The incorporation of Mo vacancies in the solid solution photocatalyst proved instrumental in inhibiting carrier complexation, while O vacancies facilitated the activation of molecular oxygen. Concurrent Mo and O double vacancies extended the photo response range, expedited the transport of photogenerated charges, and diversified the reactive oxygen species pool, collectively enhancing toluene degradation. Hence, this study presents a compelling method for the fabrication of photocatalysts exhibiting visible light catalytic activity, with potential applications in the treatment and mitigation of real-world environmental pollution challenges under mild conditions.

Enhancing indoor air quality: Examination of formaldehyde adsorption efficiency of portable air cleaner fitted with chemically-treated activated carbon filters

The pursuit of salubrious living environments necessitates a holistic approach to assuring indoor air quality. This entails considering not only particulate matter but also gaseous pollutants, particularly formaldehyde – a carcinogenic and prevalent pollutant in household environment. In addressing the persistent challenge in balancing efficiency, operating costs and environmental impact in formaldehyde removal, our study pioneers to empirically explore and compare the relationship between Carbon Tetrachloride Activity (CTC), Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), and Cumulate Clean Mass (CCM) in the context of formaldehyde adsorption, using both raw and 2-Imidazolidone-treated activated carbon (AC) filters fitted in a Portable Air Cleaner (PAC). Our experimental results show that the formaldehyde CADRs of an air cleaner with chemically-treated CTC70 and CTC100 filters were about 251 m3/h and 286 m3/h respectively, representing an increase of 1.52 and 2.5 times over untreated filters, with the treated CTC100 AC filters outperforming the CTC70 filters by approximately 12 percent under new condition. While the precise mechanisms by which 2-Imidazolidone enhances the performance of AC filters are still unknown, these findings provide an first-of-its-kind directive for future research on the interplay among the parameters (CTC, CADR and CCM) of PACs, casting a foundation for further investigations that aim at optimizing the performance of AC filters, thereby making significant strides in the enhancement of indoor air quality.

Optimizing wind-catching butterfly roofs to improve cross natural ventilation performance in apartment buildings

Abstract This study aims to enhance cross natural ventilation performance in multi-level double-loaded apartments by employing a wind-catching butterfly roof, specifically designed for apartments with a center-to-center opening configuration. A 2k full-factorial design of experiment (DOE) method with a center point is utilized for design optimization. Nine configurations, determined by roof height h and roof angle α, are assessed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). After the initial DOE assessment, three additional butterfly roof designs with varying α values are explored. The dimensionless flow rate (DFR) serves as the objective function for optimization. The optimal design features a butterfly roof with h = 0.01m and α = 30°, demonstrating improvements of 2.5%−4.9% in DFR and 5.3%−9.0% in the pressure coefficient C p compared to scenarios without a butterfly roof. Butterfly roofs also increased the velocity magnitudes in the rooms of the leeward block, with configurations h = 0.01m and α = 35° and 37.5° showing the most significant increases of 58.5% − 86.9% on levels 1 to 3. The discharge coefficient C d induced by all butterfly roof configurations are within 0.6 − 0.7 on levels 1 to 3, while the C d values for levels 4 to 6 are within 0.5 − 0.6. Although butterfly roofs can enhance indoor air quality, they require further research to meet all recommended guidelines. These findings provide valuable insights for architects and urban planners aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of apartment buildings. This research presents a comprehensive evaluation of the potential of butterfly roofs to enhance apartment ventilation and offers recommendations for future design improvements.

A review on solar air conditioning systems

In order to meet the growing need for cooling in buildings, solar air conditioning systems are a creative and environmentally friendly alternative. Solar energy is the primary energy source for producing chilled air, which can be used to maintain comforting inside temperatures. The working theories and components of several solar air conditioning systems, including hybrid, adsorption, and absorption systems, are thoroughly reviewed in this research. It also discusses the performance, efficiency, and economic feasibility of these systems and their environmental impact. The review highlights the potential benefits of solar air conditioning, such as plummeting greenhouse gas emissions, reducing energy usage, and enhancing indoor air quality. However, the paper also recognizes the limitations and challenges that need to be addressed to increase the widespread adoption of solar air conditioning systems. During our analysis, we found that solar air conditioning systems require consideration in terms of design and technological aspects. Ensuring these systems perform optimally in different climates and are economically viable is crucial. While there are challenges involved such as addressing the variations in resources and the initial setup costs. However, we are witnessing progress through advancements in materials, components, and control strategies. This continuous improvement inspires and reinforces the belief that solar air conditioning can become an accessible cooling solution for applications. This review provides a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and policymakers interested in promoting sustainable and energy-efficient cooling technologies.

Designing a Socially Assistive Robot to Assist Older Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Managing Indoor Air Quality

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) stems from airflow blockage and lung damage, and indoor air pollution exacerbates COPD, underscoring the necessity for proactive management. Older COPD patients, prone to respiratory and heat-related issues, require crucial assistance, yet their reduced awareness necessitates ongoing education to identify and enhance indoor air quality. To tackle this challenge, we developed a socially assistive robot (SAR) integrating IoT air quality sensors to guide patients in improving indoor air quality (IAQ). This study evaluated IAQ enhancement among older COPD patients using this technology, uncovering a significant reduction in ‘poor air quality alerts’ with a clear linear trend. Although ‘good alerts’ remained consistent, machine learning models predicted improved air quality post-alerts. Consistent alerts serve as a motivating factor for patients to maintain IAQ standards. However, barriers to SAR utilization, such as psychological and operational hurdles, need to be addressed in future research endeavors.

Strategic ventilation design for reducing airborne infection transmission in a two-story building: A numerical approach

This study employs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to assess the impact of various ventilation configurations on respiratory droplet dispersion in a two-story restaurant building, aiming to reduce airborne infection transmission. A total of 24 scenarios, involving three ventilation configurations and eight individuals as potential droplet sources, are studied. The configurations—Case A, Case B, and Case C—are analyzed for their effectiveness in controlling droplet dispersion and improving air exchange effectiveness (AEE). Case B, with an outlet near occupants and an inlet above the zone separation, proved most effective in minimizing the droplet transmission between floors, reducing suspended airborne droplets on each floor, and preventing surface contamination, thereby enhancing indoor air quality. Despite the positioning inlet and outlet vents near crowded areas, Case A falls short in effectively removing droplets due to the intricate airflow patterns caused by air diffusers. Case C showed larger AEE but was less effective in droplet dispersion control, indicating a crucial balance between optimizing air circulation and limiting pathogen dispersion is needed. The findings underscore the importance of strategic ventilation design in mitigating airborne infection transmission in multi-level buildings. An optimal configuration, as demonstrated by Case B, combines efficient air distribution with strategic placement of ventilation components to create barriers against interzonal droplet transmission. This study highlights the potential of targeted ventilation strategies to significantly reduce the risk of airborne infection in enclosed, populated spaces.

Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Dashboard Framework and Index for Higher Educational Institutions

This research proposes a 10-step methodology for developing an enhanced IAQ dashboard and classroom index (CI) in higher educational facilities located in arid environments. The identified parameters of the enhanced IAQ dashboard–inspired by the pandemic experience, result from the literature review and the outcome of two electronic surveys of (52) respondents, including health professionals and facility management experts. On the other hand, the indicators included in the CI are based on (80) occupant survey responses, including parameters related to IAQ, Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), and thermal comfort, amongst other classroom operative considerations. The CI is further tested in four learning spaces at the American University in Cairo, Egypt. The main contribution of this research is to suggest a conceptual visualization of the dashboard and a practical classroom index that integrates a representative number of contextual indicators to recommend optimal IAQ scenarios for a given educational facility. This study concludes by highlighting several key findings: (1) both qualitative and quantitative metrics are necessary to capture indoor air quality-related parameters accurately; (2) tailoring the dashboard as well as the CI to specific contexts enhances its applicability across diverse locations; and finally, (3) the IAQ dashboard and CI offer flexibility for ad-hoc applications.

Functional biocarbon-based coatings for wood protection and indoor air depollution

Growing concerns about indoor air pollution heighten the need to develop depolluting materials to achieve a healthy built environment. This study developed functional coatings for wooden surfaces using 20 wt% photocatalytic biocarbon particles doped with manganese oxide (BC–MnO2) and two different coating materials (linseed oil and waterborne acrylic). The samples' surface hydrophobicity and color properties were tested before and after accelerated aging. The depolluting potential of the samples was evaluated by formaldehyde removal efficiency test in indoor conditions. Results showed that adding BC-MnO2 particles increased the hydrophobicity regardless of the coating material's type. After accelerated aging, the hydrophobicity of all samples increased, which was attributed to the curing of the oil and acrylic polymers and the increase in surface roughness eventually caused by surface damage. The color change (ΔE) was more intense in the case of uncoated wood and samples without BC-MnO2. However, the BC-MnO2-containing coatings were effective in color preservation (ΔE < 2), which was attributed to the anti-UV property of biocarbon. The BC-MnO2-containing coatings exhibited a promising formaldehyde removal efficiency of up to 24 % and 46 % for oil and acrylic samples, respectively. The combination of BC-MnO2 and acrylic material was more favourable to attracting the formaldehyde molecules, likely due to the similar polarity. The developed functional coatings exhibited an acceptable ability for wood protection and formaldehyde remediation and can be potentially used to enhance indoor air quality.

ESTIMATION OF GREEN BUILDING OVER CONVENTIONAL BUILDING

This report investigates the comparative costs and benefits of green building versus conventional building practices. By integrating five advanced techniques: Biophilic Design, Passive House Design Strategies, Digital Twin Technology, Net Zero Energy Techniques, and Water Harvesting System into the construction of a conventional building, we transformed it into a green building at an additional cost of approximately ₹6,72,420. The total cost for constructing the green building amounted to ₹24,23,876.78, inclusive of the base cost of a conventional building. The study outlines a comprehensive methodological approach, which includes creating theoretical models, conducting cost analyses using current market rates in India, and evaluating environmental impacts through carbon emissions calculations. The findings reveal that although the initial costs for green buildings are higher, they offer substantial long-term benefits, including reduced operational expenses, improved occupant health, and minimized environmental footprints. Green buildings are designed to maximize resource efficiency, enhance indoor air quality, and utilize renewable energy sources, resulting in significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. This investment in sustainable construction practices not only promotes environmental stewardship but also ensures economic viability through long-term savings and improved occupant well-being. The transition to green buildings is a crucial step towards addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development for future generations. This report underscores the importance of adopting green building techniques and demonstrates that the benefits far outweigh the initial financial outlay, making green buildings a worthwhile investment for a sustainable future.

Interventions for pediatric asthma a literature review of efficacy and safety in pharmacological and non-pharmacological modalities

Asthma continues to be a major global health concern due to its related morbidity and healthcare utilization, especially in children. Pharmaceutical treatments are crucial for managing asthma, but non-pharmacological therapies are now increasingly recognized for their complimentary benefits in enhancing quality of life and lowering medication reliance. This review examines the many methods for managing asthma that involve both non-pharmacological and pharmacological techniques. The review underscores the significance of environmental triggers, including dust mites, pet dander, and mold, and shows practical strategies for mitigating allergy symptoms and adjusting living environments. It also covers how enhancing indoor air quality using smoke-free zones and HEPA air filters might lessen asthma attacks, particularly in kids who are exposed to secondhand smoke and urban air pollution. The objective is to maximize the care of asthma and reduce the worldwide prevalence of this chronic respiratory disorder by implementing comprehensive approaches that incorporate both non-pharmacological and pharmaceutical interventions.

A Mixed Method Study to Explore How Maintenance Personnel Can Enhance Wildfire Smoke Resilience at Long-Term Care Facilities in the US Mountain West

Wildfire activity is increasing around the world, concurrent with climate change, and mitigation strategies for protecting vulnerable populations are desperately needed. Because inhaled particles are deleterious to respiratory health, particularly among older adults with co-morbidities, we engaged maintenance personnel working in long term care facilities located in the Western US. Our objective was to identify opportunities to build resilience during wildfire smoke events. We implemented a virtual workshop that addressed wildfire smoke health impacts as well as strategies to assess and maintain indoor air quality. A total of 24 maintenance personnel attended the virtual workshop and 14 participated in a quantitative survey. Workshop attendees found value in the material and there was enthusiasm for educational resources and enhancing indoor air quality. Four months later, four maintenance staff participated in a follow-up interview. Our qualitative assessment revealed the following themes: awareness and prioritization, application of knowledge, barriers, and educational resources. Access to real-time actionable air quality data was a consistent feature across these themes. Maintenance personnel could play a key role in a facility’s ability to prepare for and respond to wildfire smoke events, and this study highlights potential challenges and opportunities to involving them in resilience building strategies.

Solar Powered Air Purification and Cooling

This paper presents a pioneering approach to address indoor air quality challenges in urban residential spaces through the integration of solar power and advanced technology. The developed system leverages dual-axis solar tracker technology for efficient energy harvesting and storage, ensuring continuous operation. Automation driven by energy-efficient algorithms orchestrates indoor air filtration using sensors and advanced filters to remove dust and toxic gases effectively. A key innovation is the integration of renewable energy with air purification, contributing to sustainable urban practices and healthier living environments. Central to this system is an intelligent air quality monitoring framework, based on the Arduino Uno microcontroller, facilitating real-time assessment of indoor air quality. Rigorous testing and residential experiments validated the system's capability in accurately monitoring air quality indicators. The findings highlight the potential impact of this system in mitigating the transmission of airborne viruses and pollutants, thereby enhancing indoor air quality significantly. This project represents a crucial step towards creating sustainable and healthier urban living environments. Key Words: indoor air quality, solar power, air purification, intelligent monitoring, urban sustainability.