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Conference Agenda 2026

SYDNEY BUILD
 

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PANEL: From Energy Efficiency to Human Health: Passivhaus and IAQ at the Heart of Better Buildings

30 Apr 2026
SUSTAINABILITY STAGE

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.

APA

Speakers
Linden Thorley, Founding Principal - Linden Thorley Architects, Retrofit Taskforce Co-Chair - Australian Passivhaus Association
Andy Marlow, Director - Envirotecture; Member - Australian Passivhaus Association
Alex Symes, Principal Architect - Alexander Symes Architects; Member - Australian Passivhaus Association
Kirstie Wulf, Principal Building Designer - Shelter Building Design; Member - Australian Passivhaus Association
Elsie Wang, PH Consultant - PHPP Design; Member - Australian Passvihaus Association