EFFECTS OF GREEN MARK CERTIFICATION ON INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY, OCCUPANT PERCEPTION, SATISFACTION, AND HEALTH

Abstract

This study compared several outcomes pertinent to IEQ performance in green-new, green-refurbished and non-green office buildings in Singapore. Adopting a cross-sectional study design, objective measurements were taken in 14 buildings, and satisfaction and acute health symptom risks of 367 occupants were obtained. Green buildings exhibited lower concentration of PM2.5, bacteria and fungi and maintained temperature and humidity more consistently compared to non-green counterparts. The mean ratings for satisfaction with temperature, humidity, lighting level, air quality and indoor environment were higher in green buildings (with statistical significance p<0.05). There was statistically significant reduction in risk of occupants having headache, unusual fatigue and irritated skin in green buildings. Although matching of buildings and occupant characteristics, survey participation bias, and sampling duration (a one-week snapshot) of IEQ monitoring remain as limitations, this study offered positive association of green buildings with qualitatively and quantitatively measured performance of IEQ.