Tag: Indoor Air Quality

Are Scents a True Indicator of Cleanliness?

Editor’s note: FM Perspectives are industry op-eds. The views expressed are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of Facilities Management Advisor. For many of us, the smell of lemon, pine, or even bleach is synonymous with cleanliness. We’ve been conditioned to believe that these scents are proof of a clean environment. However, the truth is […]

Green Building Groups Issue Policy Recommendations for Next U.S. Administration

Regardless of whether former President Donald Trump or Vice President Kamala Harris wins the presidential election in November, a coalition of green building advocates is calling on the next administration to help address several commercial real estate (CRE) challenges. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), New Buildings Institute (NBI), Institute for Market Transformation (IMT), and Carbon Leadership Forum (CLF) partnered to release a […]

Smart Building Technologies for Healthier Indoor Environments

Smart buildings today are far more than a token contribution to sustainability or a clever way to save energy—they positively impact health, safety, and comfort. This shift in how we design and operate buildings comes as research increasingly links indoor environmental quality (IEQ) to human well-being and productivity. Modern technologies offer powerful tools to meet […]

AI

Leveraging AI for Enhanced Asset Management in Facilities

Facilities managers have more tools at their disposal than ever before. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most exciting of these, but organizations must learn how to use it before they can experience its full benefits. Recognizing where and how AI can enhance asset management can unlock unique workflow upgrades. Enabling Real-Time Adjustments One […]

EPA Funds $34M to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Schools

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has selected five groups to receive $34 million in grants for projects helping address indoor air pollution in K-12 schools in low-income, disadvantaged, and Tribal communities across the country. This announcement comes after the agency revealed $26 million in funding to protect children from lead in drinking water at schools […]

DOE Funds $190M for Clean Energy Upgrades at Public Schools

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced selections for the 2024 Renew America’s Schools Prize and Grant, a three-phase, $190 million investment to help K-12 public schools make energy upgrades that will decrease energy use and costs, improve indoor air quality, and foster healthier learning environments for students and teachers. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, […]

Male janitor with green cleaning supplies near wet floor sign

Top Challenges of Adopting Green Cleaning in Facilities

In commercial facilities, green management practices play a crucial role in protecting the environment, enhancing human health, achieving economic savings, fulfilling social responsibilities, and ensuring long-term competitiveness and compliance. By embracing sustainable practices, these buildings not only contribute to a healthier planet but also create a safer, more efficient, and more appealing environment for all […]

Making the Case for Infrared Heating Solutions in Warehouses

Although the summer might seem like an odd time to be thinking about heating, it could be the perfect opportunity to get ahead of issues before they arise in the fall and winter months. Choosing heating solutions for warehouses can be a tricky business. These expansive spaces present unique challenges, such as frequent drafts and […]

Tackling Humidity Challenges in Coastal Schools

Humidity poses significant challenges to communities situated along coastal regions where the influence of moisture-laden air from lakes and oceans is pronounced. Humidity levels are exacerbated in those regions once the warmer temperatures arrive in late spring and summer. For schools, these high humidity levels can pose significant challenges. The School of Public Health at […]

CDC Releases Infection Prevention Guidance for K-12 Schools

The COVID-19 pandemic shuttered schools across the country and made health and safety top priority once they reopened. Although the pandemic is thankfully behind us, it remains essential to protect students and staff from all types of infectious diseases. As leaders plan for the new school year ahead, now is a good time to double […]