A Win-Win for Lung Health: How Policies on Indoor Air Quality Make Schools Healthier and More Energy Efficient

This report examines the landscape of state-level policies governing indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools, emphasizing the connection between air quality, student health, and energy efficiency. The American Lung Association reviewed state laws in seven categories: IAQ management plans, ventilation, radon, mold, integrated pest management, green cleaning, and tobacco use.

The findings highlight that no state currently has comprehensive protections across all these areas. Many existing laws encourage best practices rather than mandating them, and transparency regarding air quality assessments is often lacking. The report suggests that accountability measures, such as requiring schools to make IAQ assessments publicly available or submitting reports to state agencies, significantly improve policy effectiveness and compliance.

The resource provides ten specific recommendations for action:

• Mandate IAQ management plans and annual energy-efficient assessments.
• Adopt ASHRAE 62.1 ventilation standards and use MERV 13 air filters.
• Require radon testing every five years following ANSI/AARST standards.
• Prohibit vehicle idling on school grounds to reduce exhaust exposure.
• Prohibit all tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes.
• Establish clear timelines for mold and moisture inspection and mitigation.
• Require integrated pest management and the use of green cleaning products.
• Select building materials and furnishings with low volatile organic compounds.
• Implement staff education, communication, and accountability plans.
• Develop emergency response protocols for events like wildfire smoke or infectious disease outbreaks.

To assist with local implementation, the report highlights tools such as the Energy Efficient Indoor Air Quality Assessment Tool and the School District Energy Efficient Indoor Air Quality Management Plan Toolkit.