In the context of heating and ventilation, economic and technical aspects are predominant. The (individual!) human needs of the occupants are often ignored. Yet the heating or maintaining of thermal comfort as well as the ventilation of indoor environments are key issues of a healthy indoor climate. Consequently, we turn the tables in this course module: first we consider human needs and then match technical requirements.
The quality of the water we drink and use for personal care is very important to our health. From the well to the faucet, water comes into contact with many different materials, chemicals, and technologies. This is where planners, tradespeople, building owners, and occupants can make a difference. This course module covers the environmentally and health-conscious use of laundry detergent and cleaning agents, as well as the pros and cons of water-saving technologies, including the use of rainwater and graywater.
It is good to see that energy-efficient building design and lifestyle choices have found their place in mainstream society. Unfortunately, many key demands of building biology are ignored such as the prevention of air and electromagnetic pollution. Our slogan at the Institute of Building Biology + Sustainability IBN is: Yes to energy efficiency, but the building biology way! This is what this course module is all about.