Quality of indoor air in educational institutions and adverse public health in Europe: A scoping review

Abstract

Indoor air quality (IAQ) at educational institutions has emerged as an important public health issue, affecting the health and cognitive performance of school-aged children, students, and faculty alike. This scoping review study seeks to investigate and synthesize current literature on the factors influencing the current state of research on IAQ in educational institutions and its implications for public health. The methodology of this study is the scoping review with the guidelines of preferred reporting items for extension reviews. The technique thoroughly investigated peer-reviewed journals, international organizations, government reports, and case studies on IAQ in educational contexts. Using keywords such as IAQ; educational institutions; public health; Europe, and “adverse health outcomes,” the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria, as well as the criteria use of quality assessments. The results show that poor IAQ is linked to various public health problems, including respiratory issues and cognitive impairments, especially among vulnerable groups like children and teachers. Inadequate ventilation, volatile organic compounds, mold growth, and external contaminants are all common causes of poor IAQ. Monitoring and management measures are required to improve IAQ in Educational Institutions, encouraging students’ health and academic performance. Policy implications are also important for interdisciplinary approaches addressing this public health concern.