A method to estimate the amount of CO2 generated by building occupants since the early 1980s may be off by as much as 25%.
Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and George Mason University say the old formula relies on old data and a method lacking scientific documentation. To help address the problem, the researchers developed a new computation method that uses well-established concepts from the study of human metabolism and exercise physiology.
The new method relates CO2 generation rates to body size and composition, diet, and level of physical activity. Researchers say this results in more accurate estimates of the CO2 generated by individuals, and by extension, an improved estimate of the concentration produced by a building’s entire occupant population.
Measurements of indoor carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are used to evaluate indoor air quality. CO2 metrics are strongly linked to the levels of contaminants, such as gases and particles, circulating in the air. This information can be used to control ventilation, which helps clean the air, and can reduce the need for heating and cooling.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jul 9, 2020
Funding opportunity for field validation of high-impact building technologies
Dept. of Energy program targets dynamic interactions with electric grid.
Codes and Standards | Jul 8, 2020
Standards for reducing risk of COVID-19 in senior living communities
AIA releases strategies and illustrations for the sector.
Codes and Standards | Jul 6, 2020
Guide presents benefits of public-private partnerships
Discusses process from project conception to construction.
Codes and Standards | Jul 1, 2020
COVID-19 public health guidelines may be downplaying building systems solutions
Emphasis on cleaning surfaces overlooks importance of mechanical infrastructure.
Codes and Standards | Jun 30, 2020
WELL building institute steps up health safety rating for hotels and resorts
Certification body forms advisory group of industry leaders and health experts.
Codes and Standards | Jun 30, 2020
7 must reads for the AEC industry today: June 30, 2020
Affordable housing comes to the Bay Area and this is not the end of cities.
Codes and Standards | Jun 29, 2020
Mandated building retrofits are necessary to meet climate crisis
Performance standards could greatly reduce GHG emissions.
Codes and Standards | Jun 29, 2020
New buildings can fall short of designed performance
Similar structures can produce different energy usage results.
Codes and Standards | Jun 25, 2020
Arc offers tools, analytics for safe workplace re-entry
Platform helps sustainability teams to collect data, benchmark progress, measure impact, and improve performance.
Codes and Standards | Jun 24, 2020
New API enables design and construction technology platforms to connect
Construction Specifications Institute offers “digital classification engine.”
