FEATURES
The World Green Building
Council (WGBC) launched
its ‘Air Quality in the Built
Environment’ campaign in
2019 and advised that one
of the main ways to reduce
indoor air pollution is to
address the materials we use.
Timber interiors:
low-carbon options
for healthy buildings
Edited by Tarren Bolton
As a natural insulator, timber can help reduce energy needs when it is used
internally, such as for windows, doors and floors. A timber frame allows more
space for insulation than a brick building, and wood itself also naturally has
thermally insulating properties.
[Condensed from Wood for Good – the timber industry’s campaign to promote the use of wood in design and construction.]
D
uring the winter months, especially in colder-
climate countries, the amount of leisure time spent
indoors increases. Coupled with already spending
most of the working day inside, we may be putting
ourselves at risk from ‘Sick Building Syndrome’ (SBS). So,
what can be done to make buildings healthier and more
sustainable from the inside?
30
APRIL / MAY 2020 //
Often associated with offices, SBS can be caused by a
high count of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), poor
humidity and air quality, and being unable to maintain a
regular temperature. In the winter months, symptoms
could easily be confused with a common cold. But some
symptoms may include itchy skin or rashes, headaches
and lethargy.
www.timberiq.co.za