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Stay up-to-date on our efforts to improve indoor air quality, enhance energy efficiency in schools, and create healthier learning environments.
Participate in Clean Air Schools for U
Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools is a growing concern, with pollutant levels often 2-5 times higher than outdoor levels. Because school staff and children spend a considerable amount of their time at schools, exposure to indoor air pollutants is of particular concern. Poor IAQ can affect the health, comfort, concentration and performance of school staff and students. IAQ is influenced by factors such as inadequate ventilation, synthetic materials, and external sources like wildfires and dust storms. Common pollutants include radon, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds. Clean Air Schools for U aims to improve IAQ and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in underserved rural, urban, and Tribal school areas. It will be achieved through energy efficiency and IAQ assessments, indoor/outdoor monitoring of pollutants, and the evaluation of IAQ improvement and GHG reduction strategies. Additionally, community engagement, education, and training activities are included.
IAQ is influenced by factors such as inadequate ventilation, building materials, activities, and external sources like wildfires and dust storms. Common pollutants include radon, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds.
This project aims to improve IAQ and energy efficiency in a wide range of rural, urban, and Tribal school areas through a comprehensive set of activities.
It is a collaborative effort involving the University of Utah, Snow College, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Utah Clean Air Partnership (UCAIR)
A Multi-Component Project Initiative
Sensor Deployment
We are deploying air quality sensors at approximately 30 schools to provide real-time monitoring of key pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and total volatile organic compounds (tVOCs). Monitors that allow continuous monitoring of radon will also be placed indoors. These sensors will allow schools to assess their indoor air quality and make informed adjustments, such as improving ventilation or replacing HVAC system air filters, to create a healthier environment for students and staff.
Energy Assessments
We will perform comprehensive energy assessments of school buildings, focusing on identifying opportunities to reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and enhance overall energy efficiency. For each participating school, we will provide practical recommendations, such as optimizing HVAC settings during different air pollution events, to improve energy performance and indoor air quality.
Sensitivity Analyses
Using the air quality measurements and HVAC system data, we will identify key ventilation and filtration parameters (e.g., outdoor air ventilation rate, fan settings) that impact indoor pollutant levels. Multivariate regression and machine learning models (based on Artificial NeuralNetworks) will be used to determine these key factors. Sensitivity analyses will also be conducted using CONTAM simulation software. The results will help identify key factors influencing IAQ and energy usage, providing guidance for school building managers on improving IAQ and energy efficiency.
Phone App Development
We will develop two interactive phone apps to help school personnel identify and mitigate sources of IAQ pollutants. One app will feature engaging 3D graphics that showcase common pollutant sources in school environments. Another will allow users to scan real classroom environments, automatically identifying potential IAQ issues. These interactive tools will empower schools with practical insights to improve air quality and create healthier learning spaces.
Community Engagement
Community Advisory Boards
We will actively involve communities by forming Community Advisory Boards (CABs), which will play a key role in guiding the project. CAB members will provide input on indoor air quality (IAQ) and energy efficiency interventions, educational materials, and apps developed through the project, as well as the most effective ways to share information.
Questionnaires
To gain a deeper understanding of IAQ concerns and health impacts, we will also collect feedback from school staff and parents through questionnaires. Their insights will help shape project strategies and interventions.
Participants will be compensated for their time and contributions.
Distribution of Free Air Filters and Cleaners
To reduce exposure to indoor air pollutants, we will distribute free high-efficiency air filters and portable air cleaners to participating schools.
Impact Assessment
We will assess the impact of our indoor air quality (IAQ) interventions by comparing pollutant levels before and after implementing recommendations, along with daily school absenteeism rates. Additionally, we will measure benefits through follow-up surveys to track changes in complaints and the energy assessments of school facilities. These assessments will estimate emissions reductions and cost savings.
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