We systematically review the impact of polyurethane insulation and polyurethane household products on the indoor environmental quality of buildings. The review breaks down polyurethane products into constituent compounds (isocyanate, polyol, flame retardant, blowing agent and catalyst) as well as secondary emissions, and discusses their implications on human health. Concentrations of compounds emitted from insulation, and household materials, measured in laboratory experiments and case studies are presented in the context of the built environment.

This paper aims to review the achievements of previous studies addressing the capability of atriums for providing adequate levels of daylight and visual comfort. This study also performs several simulations using Radiance IES-VE software predominantly with the target to support the literature review results. The analysis discusses ways of daylight transmission through different atrium structures.

Many recent major studies, including the IPCC’s Fourth Assessment Report, have attested that energy efficiency is humanity’s prime option to combat climate change in the short- to mid-term. The potential to avoid CO2 emissions cost-effectively has been reported to be significant through efficiency policies. However, the review of global research findings on the quantification of cost-effectiveness of opportunities through improved efficiency has highlighted that there is a major shortcoming in the vast majority of such calculations.