Benefit

Description

Thermal Comfort

Decarbonisation options that affect thermal performance and subsequently building user comfort (such as fabric/glazing improvements and Low and Zero Carbon heating solutions) can offer an opportunity to address existing thermal issues (e.g. buildings/zones that are too hot/too cold). Climate Change could further exacerbate existing thermal issues with average temperatures increasing, creating excessive temperatures within buildings. Excessive temperatures can lead to overheating, particularly in summer months, which can impact the health and wellbeing of building users.

Lighting Optimisation

Decarbonisation options that affect lighting levels (such as optimisation of natural light, upgrading to LEDs, optimisation of daylighting and daylighting controls, automated/sensor controls, time scheduling and dimming functions) can offer an opportunity to optimise lighting levels. Different building types/zones will have different lighting requirements, but, in general, optimisation of lighting levels is important to minimise discomfort and distraction of building users. Where lighting levels are too high/harsh (i.e. direct and not dispersed), glare can occur. If lighting levels are too low this can cause visual straining. Both these instances can result in discomfort and distraction, as well as cause health adversaries such as headaches. Maximising natural light in buildings reduces the need for artificial lighting and can provide building users with exposure to natural daylight cycles. This is considered important for buildings running 24 hours a day as it can aid in the maintenance of natural rhythms.

Improved Air Quality & Ventilation

Decarbonisation options that affect air quality and ventilation (such as fabric/glazing improvements and passive/active HVAC) can offer an opportunity to improve air quality and ventilation. Different building types will have differing optimal air quality and ventilation requirements, but in general good air quality can minimise the risk of respiratory or dermatological conditions/illness, minimise excessive humidity and improve cognitive functionality.

Acoustic Comfort

Decarbonisation options that can affect acoustics (such as fabric/glazing improvements, mechanical and electrical systems) can offer an opportunity to achieve better acoustic comfort (from both internal and external noise sources). Excessive or continuous noise can affect building users in a variety of ways for example, loss of concentration, sleep disturbance and general irritation.