From: A Time of Opportunity: Local Solutions to Reduce Inequities in Health and Safety
The National Center for Healthy Housing in Columbia, Maryland, is using support from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation to demonstrate how green building principles can improve health. The center is tracking the health impact of the green renovation of an affordable 60-unit apartment complex in Worthington, Minnesota. Residents are primarily low-income minority families employed in the food processing industry. Results of this project can inform local zoning decisions and building codes. This is the first time the effect of green building principles will be measured against health outcomes over time. Early results include a majority of adults and children reporting improved health in just one year post-renovation. The adults made large, statistically significant improvements in general health, chronic bronchitis, hay fever, sinusitis, hypertension, and asthma. The children made great strides in general health, respiratory allergies, and ear infections. Overall, there were improvements in comfort, safety, and ease of housecleaning.
For more information, visit: www.nchh.org.