CLEAN AIR SCHOOLS FOR U
A collaborative effort involving the University of Utah, Snow College, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and Utah Clean Air Partnership (UCAIR). Improving indoor air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in schools through energy efficiency assessments , pollutant monitoring , and the evaluation of mitigation strategies .
About Clean Air Schools for U
This project improves indoor air quality (IAQ) and reduces greenhouse gas emissions in schools through comprehensive energy efficiency and IAQ assessments, indoor/outdoor pollutant monitoring, and the evaluation of improvement strategies. The work focuses on mitigating the impact of pollutants—which can be 2-5 times higher indoors than outdoors—on the health, comfort, and performance of students and staff. These efforts are supported by community engagement, education, and specialized training activities.
The project provides STEM educational modules designed to foster interest in science and engineering, including interactive activities using LEGO blocks to teach the mechanics of sensors. Furthermore, it hosts workshops and webinars to train school facility managers on the deployment of air quality sensors, data interpretation, and practical HVAC system adjustments.
Funding & Partners
The project is a collaborative effort funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency , involving the University of Utah, Snow College, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and the Utah Clean Air Partnership (UCAIR).
Outreach & Education
The project develops STEM educational modules, including interactive LEGO activities for students, and hosts workshops and webinars to train school facility managers on IAQ sensors, data interpretation, and the use of specialized phone apps.
Research Approach
Research focuses on monitoring pollutants like CO, CO2, PM2.5, PM10, tVOCs, and radon. It utilizes multivariate regression, machine learning models (ANNs), and CONTAM simulation software to identify key ventilation and filtration parameters.
Project Initiatives
Sensor Deployment
Air quality sensors are being deployed at approximately 30 schools to provide real-time monitoring of key pollutants, including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and total volatile organic compounds, as well as continuous indoor radon monitoring.
Energy Assessments
Comprehensive energy assessments of school buildings are performed to reduce energy consumption and lower operational costs, providing practical recommendations such as optimizing HVAC settings during pollution events.
Sensitivity Analyses
By utilizing multivariate regression, machine learning models, and CONTAM simulation software , the project identifies key ventilation and filtration parameters that most significantly impact indoor pollutant levels and energy usage.
Phone App Development
Two interactive phone apps are being developed: one utilizing 3D graphics to showcase common pollutant sources, and another allowing users to scan classroom environments to automatically identify potential IAQ issues.
Community Engagement
Communities are involved through Community Advisory Boards (CABs) and questionnaires to guide interventions, refine educational materials, and shape project strategies based on parent and staff feedback.