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Scoping assessment of the residential indoor air hazards landscape: Identifying gaps and opportunities for public health

Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Research and reports published prior to this date may reference the organisation’s former name.

Summary

This report provides an overview of residential indoor air hazards in Aotearoa New Zealand, with a focus on identifying current gaps and opportunities to improve public health. Poor air quality and hazardous indoor environments are significant contributors to both communicable and non-communicable diseases, particularly in populations who spend a large proportion of their time indoors. With whānau spending approximately 70% of their time at home, exposure to indoor air hazards—such as dampness, mould, gas pollutants, lead, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds—contribute to the burden of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, cancers, and immune disorders.

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