For too long, the focus on air quality has primarily been on the outdoor environment. But the truth is, we spend the vast majority of our time indoors – in our homes, offices, and schools. That’s why the arrival of the Global Open Air Quality Standards (GO AQS) marks a monumental shift. This initiative is the first of its kind to establish a set of limits specifically for indoor air quality, with the primary goal of safeguarding human health. We’re excited to announce that GO AQS will be presenting our work at the ASIC 2025 conference in Thailand, and we invite tech companies and air quality experts to join us there to learn more.

GO AQS recognizes that the air we breathe within our buildings has a direct and significant impact on our well-being, productivity, and even our long-term health. But how can buildings effectively monitor and manage their indoor air to meet these new standards? The answer lies in the advancements of air quality technology, particularly the rise of low-cost monitors (LCMs).

Historically, the gold standard for air quality measurement has been reference-grade instruments. While incredibly accurate, these devices come with a hefty price tag, making widespread deployment within buildings economically prohibitive. Furthermore, they are often bulky, noisy, and energy-intensive, rendering them impractical for continuous monitoring in occupied spaces like bedrooms, offices, or classrooms. Crucially, these sophisticated instruments are typically not designed to integrate with building automation systems (BAS), hindering real-time control and response to air quality issues.

This is where low-cost monitors (LCMs) step in. These innovative devices are specifically designed with accessibility and practicality in mind. Their affordable cost allows for widespread deployment throughout a building, providing a granular understanding of air quality across different zones. LCMs boast versatile technologies and sensing capabilities, capable of detecting a range of pollutants relevant to indoor environments. Moreover, they are often designed with communication protocols that facilitate seamless integration with building automation systems, enabling automated adjustments to ventilation, filtration, and other building controls based on real-time air quality data. Their compact size, low noise levels, and minimal energy demand make them ideal for continuous monitoring in occupied spaces without causing disruption.

The GO AQS initiative further leverages the power of continuous monitoring by proposing an indoor Air Quality Index (AQI) based on real-time readings. Thanks to the advancements in air quality sensing and the accessibility of LCMs, buildings can now gain a dynamic and up-to-the-minute understanding of their indoor air quality. This continuous data stream empowers building managers to proactively address potential issues, ensuring a healthier environment for occupants.

The combination of the health-focused limits set by GO AQS and the practical, accessible technology of low-cost monitors represents a significant leap forward in our ability to create healthier indoor environments. By embracing these advancements, buildings can move beyond reactive measures and actively work towards keeping their occupants healthy and thriving.

Registration link: https://event.fourwaves.com/asicsoutheastasia/registration