The purpose of a business enterprise is to generate profit. Anything that does not directly increase revenue may at first glance seem like an expense that reduces the return on investment. Improving ventilation, for instance, might appear simply as another cost line. At least in the short term, this is true.
But from another perspective, indirect costs can also bring indirect returns or reduce risks related to employees. For example:
A study conducted in schools showed that every additional liter of fresh air per person reduced student absenteeism by 5.6 days per year.
Excess moisture and mold are associated with a 30–50% higher risk of asthma in infants.
Multiple studies confirm that higher CO₂ levels in indoor environments are linked to lower cognitive abilities, directly impacting decision speed and quality.
The times when trade unions were the only defenders of workers are steadily fading along with their last remaining members. Today, the greatest protector of employees’ interests is often the employer itself—not only out of goodwill but because the nature of work has changed. Routine mechanical tasks are increasingly performed by machines and robots. What remains for people is creative work, which demands commitment, a healthy work environment, and clear thinking. Good indoor air quality is therefore an essential input for excellent work results.
Indoor air quality is as fundamental as clean drinking water, a good boss, and fair pay. Nobody asks about the ROI of those.