Enhancing Indoor Air Quality in Naturally Ventilated Classrooms in Ireland: A Systematic Review Protocol and Future Research Agenda

STUDENT PAPER. This paper introduces a Ph.D. research study investigating indoor air quality (IAQ) in educational settings in Ireland. There is evidence of significant associations between carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels and student respiratory health and academic performance, with marginal increases in ventilation rate (VR) correlating with reduced illness-related absence and increased cognitive performance. This may have far-reaching academic and economic implications for school students. The protocol described in this paper outlines the methodology for a systematic review of publications that examines the relationships between CO₂levels, VR, and IAQ, and their impacts on student health and performance in naturally ventilated (NV) primary schools. Analysis of the published data highlights seasonal and temporal variations in CO₂concentrations with 81% of classrooms exceeding the widely recommended threshold of 1000 parts per million (ppm). The results highlight the lack of universally standardised IAQ indices and specific CO₂monitoring protocols for classroom settings. Long-term CO₂monitoring is proposed for future investigations examining ventilation efficacy, health, and performance risks for classroom occupants. Establishing robust CO₂measurement protocols tailored for classrooms is essential for accurately assessing and managing IAQ. These insights are crucial for the first Author’s Ph.D. research, which aims to explore potential interventions and investment decisions for enhancing IAQ and creating optimal learning environments in Irish primary schools.