Economics of IAQ

It is a fundamental right of every citizen to live in a pollution-free environment. Apex court recently said ‘right to clean air is fundamental’. There is growing attention on air quality issues that affect people’s health, both indoors and outdoors. Urban areas and highly populated cities face severe environmental challenges, with air pollution reaching enormous and alarming AQI levels. It is analysed that indoor air pollutants come from various sources, creating a complex mix of contaminants in our indoor spaces. Ventilation is essential to reduce these airborne pollutants and improve air quality.

A genuine inquiry persists. Why do we want to purify the air? The way our bodies interact with the air around us is extraordinary. We inhale around 25 million particles from the air every second, yet we often do not stop to consider what we are breathing in. We are increasingly health-conscious, scrutinising everything we consume, from food labels to expiration dates and ingredients. But when it comes to the air we breathe – something we take in far more than food or water – we rarely pay attention to its quality.

There is growing concern about air quality, both indoors and outdoors, due to its impact on health. Recently, cases in Delhi and NCR have highlighted how pollution has reached alarming levels. Ventilation is essential to reduce airborne contaminants and improve indoor air quality (IAQ). For spaces with an existing ventilation system, optimising it can lead to a substantial improvement in IAQ, helping to better filter out pollutants and provide cleaner air.

Investing in indoor air quality improvement offers financial and health benefits. Improved IAQ increases occupant well-being and productivity. The studies show a 6-9 percent increase in employee performance, leading to higher business revenue. The economics of IAQ focuses on balancing the costs of strengthening air standards with the benefits of healthier environments. Energy savings is another benefit of IAQ improvements. Energy-efficient HVAC systems with Smart filtration and monitoring technologies can cut energy costs by 20-50 percent. IAQ improvements can extend equipment lifespan. The initial investments in IAQ measures get offset by long-term savings. This makes it an economic choice that enhances workplace health and profitability. Investing in IAQ measures is a health necessity and a financial advantage.

According to Mr. Harsh Bardhan, an HVAC professional and a consultant in HVAC solutions, investing in indoor air quality standards provides organisations with substantial benefits, from productivity gains to financial savings. Organisations can achieve healthier, more comfortable, and more productive indoor environments.

IAQ and ventilation

Mr Tushar Kalra, founder of Air Exchange Solutions, highlights the low awareness of centralised air handling units (AHUs) and HVAC systems in buildings across India. To manage outside pollutants effectively, having the Right filters with the Right grades is essential for optimal indoor air quality. Eurovent’s guideline, known as 4/23, provides a straightforward method to choose the correct filter grade and maintain a high-quality air system. As per ASHRAE recommendations, it is vital to assess outdoor air quality before incorporating it into indoor environments. Ideally, at least 15-20 percent of this air should be fresh to regulate CO2 levels and ensure proper recirculation.

A structured guideline helps determine the air quality levels within AHUs, categorised from one (most critical) to five (least critical). For example, parking lots with minimal human exposure may require lower filtration, while hospitals and offices need higher grades. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) website can be used to identify the worst outdoor air quality, aiding in filter selection based on these pollution levels. Although centralised ventilation systems are not common in Indian homes, air purifiers remain a practical option, especially where split ACs and closed windows are typical.

Mr. Rahul Jangid, Founder and CEO of Klean AQ, stresses that fresh air systems should provide adequate air exchange and filtration, ideally with a recommended level of 15 or more to capture bacteria, viruses, particulate matter, and chemical pollutants. In cases where retrofitting is necessary, such as in older buildings or homes without built-in ventilation, air purifiers or additional considerations for self-created indoor pollution may be essential.

The lack of proper ventilation is also evident in 80 percent of Indian kitchens, where cooking odours often permeate the entire home due to ineffective exhaust systems. Upgrading exhaust and ventilation systems can significantly reduce self-generated pollutants. Other preventive steps include using high-quality vacuum cleaners instead of brooms to avoid spreading dust particles and reducing indoor sources of pollution, such as incense sticks (agarbatti). While eliminating incense may not be feasible, alternatives, like clarified butter lamps, can reduce indoor pollution levels.

Dr. Dhirendra Singh, CEO, Founder, and Air Quality Specialist at Airshed Planning Professionals, explains that ventilation is necessary for diluting pollutants and circulating fresh air within buildings, ensuring a healthy oxygen supply for occupants. As particle size decreases—from 100 microns down to 2.1 microns—the toxicity of these particles increases, with particles below 2.5 microns posing health hazards. Introducing fresh air helps to remove these contaminants, promoting a safer and cleaner indoor environment.

Generally, improving filtration and ventilation and adopting cleaner practices are crucial steps toward better indoor air quality in both commercial and residential spaces.

Poor air quality impacts health

When it comes to the air we breathe, despite its high intake, most of us are unaware of the invisible particles we might inhale. Air contains particulate matter (PM) particles, including PM 10, PM 2.5, and PM 1, which differ based on size. Particles over 10 microns, often visible in dust, are generally filtered by our nasal passages and trachea before they reach the lungs. However, smaller particles like PM 2.5, about 2.5 microns, are dangerous. These tiny particles bypass our body’s natural defences and settle deep in our lungs, interfering with respiratory functions and contributing to lung diseases.

Even more harmful are PM 1 particles, measuring one micron or less. Unlike larger particles, PM 1 can enter the bloodstream, reaching vital organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys, where they can cause lasting damage. Health experts are now urging attention to PM 1 particles since they make up a large portion of PM 2.5 pollution and pose severe health risks. The world is only beginning to discuss PM 1 pollution, yet the urgency for awareness and action has never been higher.

Air quality concerns often create a roar during certain seasons, particularly from October to March in regions like Delhi NCR, where pollution reaches alarming levels. Media coverage during these months draws attention to air quality, sparking public concern. However, pollution is not limited to these times—It is a year-round issue that continually impacts health, adds Mr. Rahul. The public’s awareness may rise in response to media coverage, but those who monitor air quality understand its constant, ongoing nature. Seasonal increases in respiratory hospital admissions only underscore the issue.

Awareness

Addressing air pollution requires both individual and collective action. Awareness of particulate matter and its health risks empowers us to protect ourselves and our families. Indoor air quality improvements, such as efficient ventilation systems, regular filter changes, and air purifiers that capture PM 2.5 and PM 1 particles, can reduce exposure to harmful pollutants. Outdoors, stricter regulations on emissions, industrial pollution control, and public health advisories on high-pollution days can help minimise exposure.

As we become more health-focused, air quality must take a central role. We must approach the air we breathe with the same scrutiny, as the food and water we consume. Air may not have a label, but its impact on our well-being is as profound. By educating ourselves on particulate matter and adopting proactive measures, we can work toward a healthier environment, ensuring that the air we breathe supports rather than threatens our health.

Filtration technologies

Various technologies are available in air filtration to purify and filter the air out. From experience in the filtration industry since 1963, we have seen that no technology is perfect or inherently flawed, states Mr. Anil Nair. Rather, the key is choosing the right solution for the specific application. The oldest and most trusted method is mechanical filtration, a simple yet effective approach. This technology uses a physical barrier to capture dust and pollutants, ensuring clean air flows where needed. It’s a proven and reliable solution but has historically been energy-intensive, requiring substantial power to pull air through the filter barrier.

Recent advancements, however, have addressed this issue. Today’s mechanical filters are engineered for lower pressure drops while maintaining high efficiency. Some achieve up to 80 percent efficiency on PM1 particles with an initial pressure drop of just 6.5 mm, making them better for various applications. Unlike HEPA filters, which are costly and suited more to specialised processes, these energy-efficient mechanical filters are now widely available for general ventilation. This evolution in mechanical filtration highlights how the industry balances efficiency and energy consumption to meet modern air quality needs.

UV light

UV light is a powerful tool for microbial control, though it often needs to be understood. Direct exposure is harmful, but it is safe when concealed within an HVAC system. Mr Rahul explains that ionisation systems can inactivate 30–40 per cent of bacteria and viruses; they are less effective at controlling particulate matter (PM) levels over time. For chemical pollutants, VOCs and carbon emissions, chemical or carbon filters remain essential. No single system can manage all pollutants. Designing systems to align and match with pollutants is an effective microbial control.

Standards and the way forward

India does not have its air quality standards. India’s air quality standards, like PM2.5, PM10, BOC, CH, and methane levels, are largely modelled after U.S. standards, such as ASHRAE and ISHRAE. Mr. Anil Nair, voicing his opinion, says that WHO guidelines have become a more accepted reference across the country. As a global standard, WHO’s recommendations set a universal benchmark that resonates with multinational companies in India, especially as the nation integrates further into the global economy. With many firms adhering to WHO standards for indoor air quality, the focus has increasingly shifted toward these guidelines to ensure employee well-being in line with international norms.

WHO guidelines aim for PM2.5 levels below five micrograms per cubic meter—challenging in India. Comparatively, India’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) consider PM2.5 levels up to 60 micrograms per cubic meter acceptable, creating a substantial gap between national and WHO standards. This disparity highlights why WHO is often preferred: it provides a higher benchmark for air quality. It helps companies and organisations to align with global health standards to promote better indoor air quality.

‘Achieving a PM level below 60 would seem like being on a hill station’.

Mr Anil Nair, Head, Projects and Applications Division, Camfil India Private Limited

It is time to focus on PM1, which constitutes 80 percent of PM2.5. The world is shifting, so we must now think of ways of managing PM 1 rather than 2.5.

Dr. Dhirendra Singh, CEO, Founder & Air Quality Specialist, Airshed Planning Professionals Private Limited

As particle size decreases from 100 microns to 2.1 microns, toxicity levels increase and particles below 2.5 microns are harmful. Ventilation helps dilute these pollutants and circulates fresh air within the building, providing the necessary oxygen for breathing.

Mr. Rahul Jangid, Founder and CEO, Klean AQ Pvt. Ltd. 

Maintaining ambient air pollution is challenging since it is a human-made issue, not a Mother Nature. Spreading awareness on ways to reduce it is essential.

Mr. Chirag Kataria, Senior Manager, Zeco Aircon Limited.

IoT technology can significantly impact indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring and management, especially in large commercial spaces.

Mr. Tushar Kalra, Founder, Air Exchange Solutions

Activated carbon filters are widely utilised in HVAC systems and air purifiers to remove odours, gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air.

Mr. Parth Harshad Gandhi, Airside Application Expert, Trane Technologies India Pvt. Ltd.

Improving indoor air quality should never be considered a cost. When the application demands a HEPA filter, it should be essential.

Mr. Harsh Bardhan, HVAC professional and a consultant in HVAC solutions

Improved IAQ also leads to lower healthcare costs. World Health Organisation notes improved air quality reduces health-related expenses by 10 to 30 percent.