As winter approaches, the quality of indoor air becomes a growing concern. Traditional heating systems, while effective in warming spaces, can significantly impact air quality. By drawing in cold, dry outdoor air and heating it, these systems can strip the air of moisture, leading to increased discomfort and respiratory issues. Additionally, the increased energy consumption associated with heating and cooling the air being pulled in from outdoors can contribute to higher utility bills and a larger carbon footprint.
Biofilter living walls offer a sustainable and effective solution to these challenges. These living plant walls can significantly improve indoor air quality by filtering pollutants, regulating humidity, and reducing the strain on air handling systems.
How Biofilter Living Walls Work
Biofilter living walls function as natural air purifiers for a space. Mechanical systems built into the wall circulate air and draw polluted indoor air to the plants within the living wall system. The plants within the wall then absorb pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter, from the surrounding air. These pollutants are broken down through the biological process known as biofiltration through the work of microorganisms found in the root zone.
One of the key benefits of biofilter living walls is their ability to regulate humidity levels. During the winter months, when indoor air can become excessively dry, the plants release moisture into the air through transpiration. This helps to maintain optimal humidity levels, reducing the risk of respiratory problems to the occupants within the space.
The Impact on HVAC Systems
By improving indoor air quality and regulating humidity levels of the air that already exists within the space, biofilter living walls can reduce the load on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This can lead to significant energy savings for the building, as less energy is required to heat, cool, and humidify the air.
ASHRAE Standards and Indoor Air Quality
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has established standards for indoor air quality to ensure the health and well-being of building occupants. These standards address a variety of factors, including temperature, humidity, ventilation, and air filtration. By incorporating biofilter living walls into building design, it is possible to achieve and even exceed ASHRAE standards for indoor air quality. It’s important to note that while these standards provide valuable guidance, they are not always mandatory. However, many jurisdictions have adopted these standards into their building codes, making compliance mandatory for new construction and renovations.
The Future of Indoor Air Quality
In the spring and fall, natural ventilation such as an open window can provide a sustainable form of ventilation for a space. But in the more harsh seasons of summer, and particularly, winter where we tend to spend more time indoors, the importance of embracing innovative solutions for indoor air quality becomes paramount. By adopting technology such as biofilter living walls, we can create healthier, more sustainable, and more functional indoor environments.
As we move forward, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits of investing in green infrastructure features and sustainable building practices. Biofilter living walls are just one example of how we can harness the power of nature to improve our built environment.