"Healthier Homes, Healthier Planet" guide

The guide takes a combination of the latest research into air quality, thermal and acoustic comfort and lighting and translates it into simple, low-cost and practical strategies to make the home environment healthier for both people and planet. The world's buildings have a direct impact both on the environment and on personal health and well being, as well as having huge financial implications to owners and occupiers. Buildings and construction contribute close to 40% of global energy related carbon emissions causing climate change and contribute to air pollution that causes around four million deaths annually. Therefore, the industry must look at ways to make buildings and homes good for human health as well as beneficial to the environment. Homes and buildings across the world must be sustainable for people and planet. By publishing this guide, we hope this information will empower homeowners and occupiers to invest in a healthier home. The guide recommends action to making a home healthier such as: Ventilate your home to clear away the hidden indoor toxins and bring fresh and clean air into your home Invest in insulation to boost energy efficiency, thermal comfort, less noise and lower energy bills Maximise the use of daylight and be efficient with lighting to lower carbon emissions, reduce energy costs and unlock health benefits.