A 2023 published book in Spanish, “Calidad del aire interior en los edificios para el bienestar: estrategias de aplicación práctica” (Indoor Air Quality in Buildings for Well-being: Practical Application Strategies), is poised to become an essential resource for improving indoor air quality globally. Authored by Miguel Ángel Campano, Jessica Fernández-Agüera, and Juan José Sendra, this comprehensive guide delves into the critical aspects of indoor air quality (IAQ) and offers practical strategies for creating healthier indoor environments.   

Relevance to Global Initiatives

While currently available in Spanish, this book’s content is highly relevant to international efforts such as the development of Global Open Air Quality Standards (GO AQS). The GO AQS initiative aims to establish universal benchmarks for air quality, and the book provides valuable insights and data that can orient the initiative.

Comprehensive Coverage of Key IAQ Factors

The book covers a wide range of topics crucial to understanding and managing IAQ:

• Ventilation: The authors explore the importance of proper ventilation in diluting indoor pollutants and maintaining healthy air exchange rates.
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2): CO2 levels are discussed as an indicator of ventilation effectiveness and potential health impacts.   
• Wells-Riley Model: This mathematical model, used to estimate the risk of airborne disease transmission, is examined in detail, providing a quantitative approach to assessing infection risks in indoor spaces.   
• Particulate Matter (PM): The book addresses the sources, health effects, and control measures for particulate matter, a major component of indoor air pollution.   
• Ozone (O3): Ozone’s presence in indoor environments, its sources, and its potential health hazards are discussed.   
• Bioaerosols: The book explores the presence and impact of biological contaminants such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses in indoor air.
• Filtration: Various air filtration technologies and their effectiveness in removing pollutants are evaluated.
• Infiltration of Pollutants: The mechanisms by which outdoor pollutants enter indoor spaces are examined, along with strategies to minimize infiltration.

Practical Application and Well-being

A key strength of the book “Calidad del aire interior” is its focus on practical application. The authors provide actionable strategies and recommendations for improving IAQ in various building types. The book emphasizes the link between IAQ and human well-being, highlighting the importance of creating healthy and comfortable indoor environments.

A Valuable Resource for a Global Audience

Although currently available in Spanish, the book’s content has broad international relevance. As efforts to establish global air quality standards like the GO AQS gain momentum, resources like this become invaluable. I hope that an English translation will be available in the future, making this wealth of knowledge accessible to a wider audience.

I believe that “Calidad del aire interior en los edificios para el bienestar: estrategias de aplicación práctica” is a significant contribution to the field of indoor air quality. It provides a comprehensive and practical guide for professionals, researchers, and anyone concerned with creating healthier indoor spaces. Its insights and data are highly relevant to global initiatives aimed at improving air quality and promoting public health worldwide.