Air Quality Matters

Simon Jones

Air Quality Matters inside our buildings and out.
This Podcast is about Indoor Air Quality, Outdoor Air Quality, Ventilation, and Health in our homes, workplaces, and education settings.
And we already have many of the tools we need to make a difference.
The conversations we have and how we share this knowledge is the key to our success.
We speak with the leaders at the heart of this sector about them and their work, innovation and where this is all going.
Air quality is the single most significant environmental risk we face to our health and wellbeing, and its impacts on us, our friends, our families, and society are profound.
From housing to the workplace, education to healthcare, the quality of the air we breathe matters.
Air Quality Matters

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Best episodes

Top 10 Air Quality Matters Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Air Quality Matters episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Air Quality Matters for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Air Quality Matters episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

#44 - Sotirios Papathanasiou: Establishing a Global Standard for Indoor Air Quality - Collaborative Efforts, Technological Challenges, and Environmental Impact

Air Quality Matters

10/07/24 • 63 min

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Ever wondered how a global standard for indoor air quality could change the way we live and work?
In this episode, we welcome Soterios Papathanassio, the driving force behind the Global Open Air Quality Standard (GoAQS).
We explore Soterios' vision to harmonize the scattered and often incomplete information on indoor air quality, a necessity as crucial as water and food. You'll gain insights on the collaborative journey involving academia and industry to create a universal standard that can be adopted worldwide.
We tackle the nitty-gritty of developing practical indoor air quality standards amidst technological and economic constraints. Discover the innovative two-tier approach that starts with basic monitoring of particulate pollution and carbon dioxide and progresses to encompass other pollutants like formaldehyde and ozone.
Sotirios - Linkedin
Go AQS

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Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more.
This Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.
21 Degrees
Lindab
Aico
Ultra Protect
InBiot
All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.

#17 Ellora Coupe: Pioneering Healthy Homes Through Her Own Space

Air Quality Matters

04/01/24 • 92 min

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A Conversation with Ellora Coupe
Discover how Ellora Coupe, founder of Her Own Space, is transforming the renovation and retrofit industry for women homeowners. Join us, where Ellora shares her innovative strategies that are making air quality and ventilation relatable and actionable. With her unique blend of branding expertise and renovation savvy, she advocates for healthier living environments and provides a platform that empowers women to take charge of their homes.
Collaboration and trust are key in the realm of home retrofit. Through Her Own Space, Ellora has cultivated a thriving community of over 3,000 women who support each other through the trials and triumphs of retrofit projects.
If you listen to the podcast, you have probably heard me talk several times about the need to better frame subjects like air quality in the built environment. To understand stakeholder needs and find ways to communicate in more effective ways.
I have a lot of respect for Ellora; she has created in her own space a place of story telling, knowledge building and trust. Something we could learn a lot from in nieces like air quality and ventilation.
Learn how to understand a stakeholder group, in this case, women in retrofit, renovation, and home building. But more importantly, open communication up into a dialogue—a conversation, a network.
Ellora Coupe - LinkedIn
Her Own Space
Her Own Space - Facebook

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#50 - Peter Rankin: Transforming UK Building Safety - Regulation Reforms, Ventilation Standards, and Collaborative Innovations

Air Quality Matters

11/18/24 • 99 min

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Join us as we explore the significant transformations in building safety regulations in the UK with Peter Rankin, a leading expert from the Health and Safety Executive. Following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire, sweeping changes have reshaped the landscape of building safety, led by the establishment of the Building Safety Regulator under the Building Safety Act. You'll gain a deeper understanding of how these reforms centralize responsibilities within the HSE, impacting building standards and the multi-faceted role of the regulator in ensuring safety beyond just fire and structural concerns.
Peter Rankin provides a fascinating insight into the challenges and innovations in building regulations, particularly focusing on ventilation standards. We discuss the intricate balance between technical accuracy and readability in building guidelines, highlighting the importance of accessible guidance for those involved.
This episode also delves into the modernization of these regulations, especially in the digital realm, emphasizing the vital role of effective communication and the untapped potential in government messaging to enhance compliance and performance in the industry.
The conversation extends to the imperative of improving indoor air quality standards and the importance of re-evaluating ventilation systems. With a view towards infection resilience and pollution control, we consider the implications of updated standards, innovations in building design, and cross-industry collaborations to foster a safer environment.
This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone invested in the future of building safety and regulation, offering a comprehensive look at how these changes are shaping industry practice and public safety.
LinkedIn - Peter Rankin

HSE - Building Standards

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#46 - Michael Don Ham: Future of Living and Working Spaces - WELL Building Standards, Air Quality Challenges, and Regenerative Tea Farming

Air Quality Matters

10/21/24 • 73 min

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With remote work becoming the norm and health-focused living spaces on the rise, we unpack the evolution of building standards like the WELL Building Standard and their impact on both residential and professional environments.
Learn how Fortune 500 companies are taking proactive steps to maintain air quality for remote workers, ensuring healthier, more productive workspaces.
We'll explore the intricacies of air and water quality monitoring and the often-overlooked health impacts of common household products.
From the dangers of plug-in air fresheners to the complex world of water contaminants like PFAS, we discuss these invisible threats and the importance of regulations like the Clean Air Act.
Michael shares his expertise on the critical role of filtration, ventilation, and humidity control in creating optimal indoor environments, emphasizing the potential health benefits for everyone, from financial analysts to professional athletes.
Michael also introduces us to the world of regenerative tea farming, highlighting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the tea industry. His pioneering approach in achieving Regenerative Organic Certification sets a benchmark for quality and sustainability, offering a blueprint for other industries.
Michael Don Ham - LinkedIn
Repure
Wild Orchid
WELL Buildings

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#28 Simon Jones: Big news on the podcast and some other things, including working with vunerable people.

Air Quality Matters

06/17/24 • 28 min

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Have you ever wondered how to make complex air quality systems understandable for everyone, especially those most vulnerable? Join me as I reflect on two major milestones: 20 rewarding years in Ireland and a first year of my consultancy.
This episode is a personal journey through the pillars of my work—consultancy, communication, and diverse projects like teaching and course development. Plus, I share some updates about the podcast's successful effort over the past six months to bring essential conversations about air quality and the built environment to a wider audience. And some exciting news on some partnerships for the next 6.
Communicating technical information to homeowners who may not fully grasp the systems being installed can be quite a challenge.
That’s why we’re tackling the topic of vulnerability in ventilation communication head-on. This episode shines a spotlight on the ethical responsibility of companies to make their systems user-friendly and accessible. We'll discuss the necessity of clear communication, comprehensive support, and continual feedback to ensure everyone's air quality improves, regardless of their background.
We turn to the Healthy Buildings Barometer 2024 , which offers critical insights into European homes and their impact on residents' health—and loads more besides.
https://www.airqualitymatters.net/
https://www.bpie.eu/publication/healthy-buildings-barometer-2024-how-to-deliver-healthy-sustainable-and-resilient-buildings-for-people/
https://aivc2024conference.org/

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#45 - Tom Haywood: Optimizing Ventilation Performance - MVHR Systems, Building Design, and Indoor Air Quality Benefits

Air Quality Matters

10/14/24 • 67 min

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Optimizing ventilation performance with Tom Hayward, the MVHR department manager at 21 Degrees, shares his expertise on how prioritizing performance specifications over product specifications can transform ventilation solutions.
This episode promises a deep dive into the nuances of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems and their critical role in improving indoor air quality. Discover why understanding a building's fabric design and energy needs is vital for balancing high heat recovery efficiency with energy consumption and how these systems are not just optional upgrades but essential for preserving occupant health by preventing condensation and mould.
Explore the intricacies of installing MVHR systems in both new construction and retrofit scenarios while tackling common challenges such as placing units within the thermal envelope and making informed ducting choices. Through real-world examples, we challenge misconceptions about ventilation and emphasize the necessity of early planning and collaboration with designers to ensure efficiency and avoid pitfalls.
Rethink how ventilation fits into your building plans, as Tom shares insights into the broader benefits MVHR systems offer beyond heat recovery, such as enhancing air quality and reducing noise levels.
We takle the evolving challenges within the construction industry, where the importance of design and compliance is paramount for achieving high-performance outcomes. Tom highlights the need for specialized professionals and a collaborative approach to effectively manage issues like non-compliance and regulatory changes. Learn about the future of ventilation technology, including the integration of NOx filters for urban air quality and the importance of independent validation.
This episode is a treasure trove of valuable insights for anyone passionate about creating healthier, more efficient living environments.
Tom Heywood - Linkedin
21 Degrees

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#31 - Douglas Booker: Bridging Socioeconomic Gaps in Indoor Air Quality - Environmental Justice, Community Involvement, and Sensor Technology

Air Quality Matters

07/08/24 • 91 min

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A Conversation with Douglas Booker
Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Air Quality Matters podcast, where we uncover the hidden links between indoor air quality and environmental justice with, Douglas Booker.
A geographer, entrepreneur, and lecturer at the University of Leeds, Douglas dives deep into the unequal distribution of indoor air pollution and the urgent need for action despite gaps in our data.
From discussing socioeconomic factors to the pivotal role of community involvement in research, Douglas offers a perspective on how environmental justice issues ripple across air Quality.
Ever wondered why lower socioeconomic groups bear the brunt of poor indoor air quality? This episode tackles the complex web of procedural justice, highlighting disparities in indoor environments, especially in the UK.
Douglas shares insights from initiatives like Born in Bradford, which combine air quality data with health outcomes to drive meaningful interventions. We emphasize the importance of informed consent, improved product labelling, and the critical need for affected communities to have a say in policy-making, ensuring that any solution is both just and practical.
Douglas Booker LinkedIn
Douglas Booker Leeds
NAQTS
Clean Air Champions UK
Born In Bradford

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#12.2 - Francesca Brady: Harmonizing Air Quality and ESG Strategies for Healthier Workspaces and Sustainable Futures

Air Quality Matters

01/29/24 • 58 min

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Part 2
Francesca Brady - is CEO and Co-Founder of AirRated an indoor air quality (IAQ) certification company

She is an advisory member for the Camden Clean Air Initiative, the BREEAM Health and Wellbeing technical group, and a member of the International WELL Building Institute's Covid-19 Taskforce.
A rising star in air quality in many ways including on the Forbes 30 under 30 list in 2021 for her work with Air rated.

With a Masters in Environmental Geoscience specialising in indoor atmospheric chemistry she was Formerly Head of Research for Air Rated, before taking on the role of CEO in 2020.

Since then she has been dedicated to promoting and educating audiences from all walks of life about the importance, benefits and management of good indoor air quality.

Francesca is a top-tier communicator and can frame a complex subject in ways that are resonating with the audience, clearly.
Air rated is a standard with a laser focus on air quality and is growing in recognition year after year under her leadership.

We discussed the value of labelling air quality in buildings and the challenges around building the business case. How Air rated is approaching the sector and creating accessible on-ramps for all classes of building. How air quality impacts performance, the bottom line ESG and so much more.

Air Rated
Francesca Brady LinkedIn
Our Air in Review

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#35 - Brad Prezant: Ensuring Healthier Indoor Spaces - Occupational Hygiene, Ventilation Challenges, and Moisture Management

Air Quality Matters

08/05/24 • 116 min

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A conversation with Brad Prezant
Although I have followed Brad for years, I finally got to meet him last year in Copenhagen, and finally, we managed to find some time to get him on the podcast. I've been keen to bring the occupational health and hygiene lens to our discussions, and what a great guest to talk about the subject.
We talk about the voice of this discipline in indoor air quality, building assessments, and even meth labs! I think you will enjoy the discussion.
He is a public health and occupational health scientist with an epidemiology and public health perspective.
He works primarily as a consultant, with additional experience as a University-based research scientist. He has assessed indoor air quality and ventilation, as well as mould and moisture, in airports, hospitals, public buildings, and schools since 1979.
He is one of 50 people worldwide with the designation Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), with a sub-specialty in Indoor Air Quality.
An author of numerous professional documents published by professional societies addressing indoor mould, including a co-author of the Bioaerosols chapter in Aerosols Handbook: Measurement, Dosimetry, and Health Effects, and editor of the first edition of Recognition, Evaluation, & Control of Indoor Mold, published by the AIHA.
He is the author of AIRAH’s Guidance Document for Schools: COVID-19 Ventilation Optimisation and was a contributor to the Harvard School of Public Health document on airborne transmission of COVID-19 in airports. He is a frequent speaker on topics related to indoor air quality, bushfire smoke, indoor moisture and mould, asbestos, methamphetamine labs, and ventilation.
Brad Prezant - LinkedIn
Prezant Environmental

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#19 - Dan Hyde: Impact of User Experience in the Built Environment, Ventilation and Air Quality

Air Quality Matters

04/15/24 • 113 min

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Dan Hyde
Dan is a UX strategist, researcher, co-host of the Zero Ambitions Podcast (a podcast about sustainability and the built environment), and co-founder of the magazine that ultimately evolved into Passive House Plus.

At Everything is User Experience, Dan and Alex his co-founder develop the strategy that underpins everything from apps and websites, to bid writing, service design, and corporate sustainability communications.

Working in the built environment, finance, and healthcare sectors, they carry out practical research that can be turned into simple, strategic packages that enable their clients to create experiences that work for all users.

In a full circle, Dan is a partner in a spin-off of the Zero Ambitions podcast, the Zero Ambitions Partnership offering much of the same strategy advice around UX, but focused specifically on the built environment, with Alex and Jeff Colley, the editor and owner of Passive House Plus and co-host of the podcast of the same name.

I wanted Dan on because he is just a great value to talk to anyway. One of his many skills.

However, beyond the performance gap in IAQ and ventilation in general, we have a significant communications gap, both with users of spaces and the stakeholders who deliver and manage them.

Good UX and design in how we structure strategy, communicate it, and provide ongoing support are everything. This chat scratches at some of these ideas.

EIUX website - https://www.everythingisuserexperience.com

EIUX LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/everythingisuserexperience/

Dan’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-hyde-61863112/

Futurebuild panel on YouTube (Does deep retrofit = deep impact Insights) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUIf45yc0wc

ZAP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/zero-ambitions-podcast

ZAP episodes - https://feeds.transistor.fm/zero-ambitions

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