Determine the role of biological contaminants in indoor environments in the causation and exacerbation of allergies (including asthma) and other disorders. Create a better understanding of the role of biological contaminants in the increased incidence of allergies (including asthma) and other disorders.
On average, people spend around 95% of their time indoors, and most of this time is spent in their homes. In addition to the impact of ambient air pollution on indoor air quality, there are a number of pollution sources which are specific to the indoor environment. These include tobacco smoke, combustion appliances, furniture and building materials. Biological indoor pollution sources, e.g. dust mites, pets and moulds, possibly present the biggest threat, but this is the least researched area.
This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.
Agenda 21 recommends supporting research and developing programmes for applying prevention and control methods to reducing indoor air pollution, including economic incentives for the installation of appropriate technology.