Forward

The following is the charge provided as the basis for this paper

Background: Some states have already updated their building codes to foster improved energy
efficiency of residences and other buildings and there is increasing pressure for others to do so.
Conservation-minded building codes have the potential to reduce naturally occurring air
exchange for buildings by tightening the envelope and reducing pressurization of unconditioned
spaces (e.g. duct sealing). Indoor moisture, altered airflows, lowered air exchange all have the
potential for increasing occupant risk of exposures to indoor generated contaminants.

Report topic: Provide a comprehensive listing of energy-related building codes—including model

“green housing” codes—across the US to identify how these address the issues of ventilation, air
exchange and indoor air pollution.

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