A recent study by Graz University of Technology reveals concerning findings about air quality in schools across Austria, showing that many classrooms fail to meet national and European standards.
Results indicate that 75% of classrooms exceeded the recommended CO2 concentration levels, with some levels reaching nearly seven times the threshold.
Approximately a quarter of classrooms did not meet the minimum ventilation requirement per person, affecting students' health and learning.
Elevated CO2 levels suggest poor ventilation, impacting cognitive performance and increasing health risks for students.
The research emphasizes disparities in air quality between different school types and regions, with surprising findings about urban versus rural schools.
Classrooms with mechanical ventilation systems exhibited better air quality than those relying on manual ventilation, particularly in colder weather.
CO2 sensors were identified as a cost-effective solution to enhance manual ventilation practices and improve indoor air quality.
The study underscores the need for actionable strategies to enhance air quality in schools, advocating for the use of CO2 sensors and efficient ventilation practices.
Investing in air quality improvements in schools is crucial for the health and learning outcomes of students and educators, fostering a culture of health consciousness.
Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to prioritize and implement air quality enhancements in schools, ensuring a conducive and healthy learning environment.