Strengthening energy efficiency standards by an achievable 15% would reduce heart attacks, respiratory disease, asthma attacks, and premature death, according to a new study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).
More energy efficient buildings and transportation would reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides by 18% and sulfur dioxide by 23%. Cleaner air would result in nearly 30,000 fewer asthma episodes, save more than six lives a day, and avoid $20 billion a year in health costs.
These benefits would impact some states and cities more than others. Based on the dollar value of avoided health harms, Pennsylvania would realize the greatest benefits, followed by New York, Ohio, Illinois, Texas, Michigan, Florida, Indiana, Tennessee, and North Carolina.
In the built environment, simple measures such as sealing holes would reduce the influx of outdoor pollution while improving HVAC efficiency and comfort for occupants. Sealing holes would also improve indoor air quality by blocking air containing moisture that aids the growth of mold.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2016
Ontario planning to spend $7 billion on wide-ranging climate change plan
Includes financial incentives to retrofit buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 23, 2016
Facility managers say Internet of Things, analytics will impact maintenance soon
More reliable data needed for optimal results from the technology.
Codes and Standards | May 20, 2016
Industry leaders call for wider use of bamboo as a building material
Benefits include seismic resiliency and sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2016
Asphalt roofing group publishes updated shingle installation guide
Technical manual provides best practices for roofing professionals.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2016
EPA proposes new stormwater discharge regulations for construction sites
Would apply to sites of one or more acres.
Roofing | May 16, 2016
New guide focused on increasing energy and structural performance with raised-heel trusses
Higher trusses simplify attic ventilation, leave more space for insulation.
Codes and Standards | May 11, 2016
Current California seismic codes provide safety, resiliency, but needed upgrades present challenge
Los Angeles requires seismic retrofits, but other cities do not.
Codes and Standards | May 10, 2016
Apple spars with Cupertino, Calif., mayor over strained city infrastructure
Apple’s new ‘spaceship’ campus project prompts questions about whether the company should pay more to offset traffic woes.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
Safety Stand-Down yields proposals to boost construction safety
One example: Gilbane encourages safety harnesses for all working above 6 feet.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
EcoDistricts unveils sustainable neighborhood framework
Focus is on equity, resilience, and climate protection.