Children learn more quickly and effectively in schools with better air quality, according to new research from the US.
A study released today by ASHRAE found that improved ventilation is a key factor in students' ability to concentrate and work more quickly.

Lowering classroom temperatures and increasing ventilation improved students' performance by between ten and 20%, with the greatest difference observed when considering how quickly students were able to work and the number of mistakes they made, the association reported.
'ASHRAE looked at whether 'is it possible that Johnny can't read because Johnny can't breathe' so to speak,' said ASHRAE president Terry Townsend.
'The preliminary results seem to indicate the answer is yes. The study confirms earlier ASHRAE research that increased ventilation rates positively impact productivity in buildings,' he added.
Leading the study, Pawel Wargocki of the University of Denmark said that air quality in schools was often far worse than in offices, adding that the study showed the importance of improving ventilation and lowering air temperature to optimise learning conditions.