PANEL: From Energy Efficiency to Human Health: Passivhaus and IAQ at the Heart of Better Buildings
The conversation around building performance is shifting from energy efficiency alone to the direct impact buildings have on human health. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is now recognised as a critical factor influencing respiratory health, cognitive performance, and overall wellbeing, yet it remains inconsistently delivered in mainstream construction.
This session explores how Passivhaus provides a proven, performance-based approach to delivering consistently high indoor air quality. Through its integrated focus on airtightness, high-performance building envelopes, and balanced mechanical ventilation with filtration, Passivhaus ensures a continuous supply of fresh, clean air while minimising exposure to pollutants, allergens, and moisture-related risks such as mould.
Drawing on real-world projects and measured outcomes, this session will demonstrate how Passivhaus buildings move beyond compliance to deliver verified health and comfort benefits. It will also highlight the growing importance of IAQ in shaping market demand, policy direction, and the future of high-performance buildings in Australia.



