Air Quality Matters

Air Quality Matters

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Air Quality Matters episodes

  • #56 - Jack Harvie-Clark: Unravelling Noise Impact – Acoustic Health Challenges, Building Standards, and Innovations

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    The podcast episode explores the intricate relationship between sound quality, health, and ventilation systems in our built environments. It discusses the direct and indirect impacts of noise on human health, emphasizing the importance of considering acoustics in air quality management. Key points include non-acoustic factors influencing annoyance and the need for updated regulations and standards in noise management.

    • Addressing the health impacts of noise pollution
    • Understanding direct and indirect pathways of noise effects
    • Non-acoustic factors influencing annoyance and perception
    • Importance of community trust in noise management strategies
    • Current standards for noise levels in residential settings
    • Potential revisions to national standards for facade sound insulation
    • Advocating for measurement and validation of sound levels in buildings

    Jack Harvie-Clarke Linkedin
    Apex Acoustics

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    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    1 hr 58 min
  • #55 - Nels Anderson: Bridging Air Quality Gaps – Middle Tier Sensors, Occupational Safety, and Technological Integration

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    Understanding the intersection of low-cost sensors and advanced environmental technology is crucial for enhancing air quality monitoring. The episode features an insightful conversation with Nels Anderson, who discusses the emergence of near reference grade sensors, the evolving role of occupational hygienists, and the impact of COVID-19 on air quality expectations.

    • The significance of near reference grade sensors in occupational hygiene
    • How low-cost sensors have changed the air quality landscape
    • Bridging the skills gap with user-friendly technology
    • Enhancing user experience through improved interfaces
    • The shifting dynamics of air quality monitoring post-COVID

    Nels Anderson LinkedIn

    TSI

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    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    1 hr 23 min
  • #54 - Joakim Lindh: Revolutionizing Indoor Air Quality – Strategic Growth, Health-Centric Environments, and B2B Challenges

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    What if the air you breathe indoors is affecting your health more than you realise?

    Join us for a discussion with Joakim Lindh, Airthings' Head of Strategic Growth, as we uncover the evolving priorities in indoor air quality monitoring.

    Explore how Airthings is pivoting its strategy in 2024 to create environments centered around people rather than just buildings. From post-COVID interest shifts to the impact of wildfires in the US and specific regional focuses like CO2 monitoring in the Netherlands, the conversation highlights the vital role of industrial hygienists and centralized facility management in maintaining safe indoor air quality.

    The transition from energy efficiency to prioritizing health and productivity outcomes within building management. We address the challenge of transforming technical jargon into relatable health metrics, guided by standards like GoAQS, and the necessity of impactful communication in less automated environments.

    With insights from Airthings' extensive data collection, we reveal striking inefficiencies and the importance of continuous monitoring to optimize building performance. The narrative also touches on the nuanced dynamics of transitioning from a B2C to a B2B focus, exploring the unpredictable growth and competitive landscape in the B2B sector.

    Finally, we spotlight the critical issue of radon exposure, underscoring the need for broader awareness and adoption of modern monitoring technologies. Through captivating case studies, discover how advanced sensors have been pivotal in mitigating this invisible threat. As we look to the future, the integration of industrial hygienists and advancements in wireless technology and AI promise a healthier indoor environment. Listen in for insights on fostering long-term customer relationships and ensuring the integration of sensor data into organizational processes, all while navigating the intricate global market of indoor air quality monitoring.

    Joakim Lindh - LinkedIn
    Airthings 

    Support the show

    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    1 hr 47 min
  • #53 - Maria Figols: Advancements in Indoor Air Quality - Sensor Innovations, Precision Challenges, and Future Connectivity Solutions

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    Ever wondered how the air we breathe indoors is being monitored with cutting-edge technology? Join us in this enlightening episode of Air Quality Matters as we sit down with Maria Figols, the Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of inBiot, who shares her journey from technical architecture in Spain to leading innovations in sensor technology.

    Discover how the evolution from bulky, single-function devices to sleek, multi-parameter systems is revolutionizing indoor air quality monitoring. Maria offers a unique perspective on the shift from affordability to ensuring the reliability and accuracy of modern sensors, providing an inside look at the dynamic growth of this field.

    Our conversation takes a deep dive into the world of low-cost sensors, exploring the critical balance between precision and practicality. Maria gives us a behind-the-scenes view of the challenges inBiot faces as they refine and scale their sensor solutions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with research institutions and industry partners. We discuss the complexities of developing robust hardware and how inBiot stands at the forefront of integrating these sensors into user-friendly devices, ensuring they are not only market-ready but also capable of transforming raw data into actionable insights.

    The future of sensor technology is bright, and Maria's insights into advancements like measuring specific pollutants and connectivity solutions highlight the potential for significant improvements in indoor air quality assessments. With a focus on innovation, ongoing sensor validation, and adapting to technological changes, she is paving the way for a healthier built environment.

    Maria Figols - LinkedIn 

    inBiot 

    Support the show

    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    1 hr 57 min
  • #52 - John McKeon: Bridging Health and Environment - Indoor Air Quality Innovations, Historical Insights, and Collaborative Healthcare Approaches

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    The intricate relationship between health and the environments we inhabit, featuring insights from John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Limited.

    This episode discusses how improving indoor air quality can transform health outcomes, drawing fascinating connections with historical public health achievements. Discover the pivotal role of healthcare professionals in this evolving landscape and how a shift towards proactive patient education and environmental management could redefine modern medicine.

    The challenges and breakthroughs in integrating environmental factors into healthcare decision-making. Uncover the delicate balance between anecdotal evidence and rigorous clinical data, and how this influences healthcare policies.

    John McKeon shares real-world examples from innovative community-based healthcare programs across Ireland, the UK, and the US, showcasing the power of collaboration and holistic care.

    From the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's outreach initiatives to the broader implications of environmental health on medical practice, this episode is a compelling call to action for professionals across sectors to unite for better indoor environments and improved public health.

    John McKeon - LinkedIn

    Allergy Standards Ltd
    iAir Institute

    Support the show

    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    1 hr 56 min
  • #51 - Tim Sharpe: Improving Home Ventilation - Architecture's Role, Usability Challenges, and Health Implications

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    A healthier home environment with Tim Sharp, head of architecture at the University of Strathclyde.

    Our latest episode challenges the notion that energy efficiency can coexist with optimal indoor air quality without regular testing and innovation. Join us as we address the widespread misconceptions surrounding ventilation in both new and existing UK homes, emphasizing the necessity of systematic evaluations to enhance building performance.

    We shine a light on the often-overlooked cultural and habitual influences that shape our ventilation practices. Learn how the construction industry can draw inspiration from other sectors by prioritizing user-friendly design and effective communication. We explore the transformative potential of home user manuals, akin to appliance quick-start guides, and the vital importance of improving public understanding of their living spaces to prevent pollutant build-up.

    The complexities of maintaining adequate ventilation in older buildings and the challenges of meeting compliance standards. Our conversation with Tim Sharp highlights the critical role architecture plays in fostering healthier environments through collaboration among architects, designers, and contractors. As we navigate the intricate connections between ventilation, health, and building performance, discover how innovative solutions and environmental data can empower residents to make informed decisions for more sustainable living.

    Tim Sharpe - LinkedIn

    Tim Sharpe - Strathclyde

    Support the show

    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    2 hr 12 min
  • #50 - Peter Rankin: Transforming UK Building Safety - Regulation Reforms, Ventilation Standards, and Collaborative Innovations

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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 

    Support the show

    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    1 hr 40 min
  • #49 - Simon Jones: Ventilation Measurement, Health Risks, and World Ventilate Day Insights

    Send us a text (https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2264976/open_sms)

    How much do you really know about the air you breathe indoors? 

    On Air Quality Matters, we uncover the often-overlooked significance of accurate ventilation measurement, which is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality. 

    With startling facts revealing that indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air, we delve into the health risks it poses, like respiratory diseases and cognitive decline. We highlight the importance of World Ventilate Day and discuss the critical role ventilation plays in safeguarding our health and enhancing cognitive abilities. 

    We explore the various methods used to measure ventilation, including the Unconditional, Conditional, and Minimum Benchmark Methods, each with its own set of challenges, particularly in residential mechanical ventilation systems. 

    I introduce a pragmatic two-tiered approach for assessing ventilation, combining the expertise of certified professionals with the practical abilities of non-specialists, to make monitoring indoor air quality more efficient. 

    The episode emphasizes the urgent need for investment in training and equipment to meet evolving standards, aiming to create safer and healthier indoor environments. 

    Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Airqualitymatters)

    Check out the Air Quality Matters (https://www.airqualitymatters.net/podcast) website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@airqualitymatters-SimonJones/featured)

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent (https://www.eurovent.eu/) Farmwood (https://farmwood.co.uk/) Aereco (https://www.aereco.co.uk/) Aico (https://www.aico.co.uk/) Ultra Protect (https://www.ultra-protect.co.uk/air-quality-matters) Zehnder Group (https://www.zehndergroup.com/?utm_source=SoMe&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=AQM_p%20odcast)

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    SafeTraces (https://www.safetraces.com/) & InBiot (https://en.inbiot.es/?utm_source=airqualitymatters&utm_medium=podcast)

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.

    22 min
  • #48 - Simon Jones: Reflecting on One Year of Air Quality Insights - Expert Dialogues, Innovative Solutions, and the Future of Healthier Living Spaces

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    A personal one this one.

    I reflect on an incredible year with the Air Quality Matters podcast. This special episode offers insights from my experience hosting 48 episodes and sitting down with 37 experts, including Max Sherman and Cath Noakes, who have shaped our understanding of air quality, ventilation, and its far-reaching impacts. From exploring groundbreaking building codes to addressing vital social justice issues, we promise to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of indoor environments. 

    Celebrate our growth journey as we look forward to the exciting future of video podcasts and industry advancements in 2025.

    We explore the intersection of energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and sustainability as we recount compelling discussions with thought leaders like Ben Jones and Sarah West. We dive into the critical role that data-driven policies and health-centric standards will play in shaping resilient living spaces, highlighting innovative solutions like the Corsi Rosenthal box. Join us as we champion efforts that ensure healthier environments for marginalized communities and anticipate the future of air quality technology. This episode is a testament to the power of expert dialogue and the ongoing quest to foster better, more inclusive indoor experiences.


    Support the show

    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    35 min
  • #47 - Brandon Chappo: Confronting Mold Hazards – Health Impacts, Legislative Efforts, and Advocacy for Safer Indoor Environments

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    Struggling with a mysterious illness, Brandon discovered that the culprit was closer to home than he ever imagined—mold.

    Join us as Brandon, from the Change the Air Foundation, shares his journey through mold-related health issues and how it ignited his passion for advocacy.

    Through his insights, we unpack the staggering reality that so many American buildings may harbour this hidden health hazard.

    This episode sheds light on the complex health ramifications of poor indoor air quality, illustrating why awareness and community support are essential in tackling this widespread issue.

    With no standardized exposure limits and varying sensitivities among individuals, it's a complex puzzle that demands urgent attention. Mycotoxins, the dangerous byproducts of mold, are linked to a plethora of health issues—from asthma and allergies to more severe conditions. We emphasize the importance of recognizing water damage signs and the need for professional assessments when health problems persist, stressing the broader societal and psychological impacts tied to mold exposure.

    Brandon's story isn't just a cautionary tale but a call to action. We explore legislative efforts, like Illinois' Senate Bill, to protect consumers and promote public health with active certifications for mold remediators.

    Our discussion highlights the Change the Air Foundation's mission to foster safer indoor environments through research, education, and strategic partnerships. By sharing real-life experiences and legislative victories, we aim to ignite meaningful change and ensure healthier living spaces for everyone.

    Brandon Chappo - LinkedIn

    Change the Air Foundation

    Support the show

    Check out the Air Quality Matters website for more information, updates and more. And the YouTube Channel

    The Air Quality Matters Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    Eurovent Farmwood Aereco Aico Ultra Protect Zehnder Group

    The One Take Podcast is brought to you in partnership with.

    SafeTraces & InBiot

    All great companies that share the podcast's passion for better air quality in the built environment. Supporting them helps support the show.



    1 hr 46 min

About Air Quality Matters

From the publisher's feed

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…