Overview | In Focus | Funding | Partners | Events | Results/Impacts | Resources | Contacts

Overview

Research has found that the quality of air in homes can be poorer than that of the outdoors. Housing accounts for almost one-fifth of the U.S. economic activity. The National Home Builders Association estimates that construction of 1,000 single-family homes generates 2,448 full-time jobs, $79.4 million in wages, and $42.5 million in federal, state, and local revenues and fees. The goal of the CSREES Housing and Indoor Environment program is to contribute to the quality of life for consumers through sustainable housing programs including safe and affordable housing, air and water quality, and energy. CSREES works with other federal agencies, nonprofits, the private sector, and in coordination with our Land-Grant University System partners. Together, they provide research, education, and outreach programs for consumers and professionals in housing, health, and environmental fields to help them make accurate decisions about homes and the environment.

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In Focus

• The Healthy Indoor Air for America's Homes program improves the quality of indoor air in homes.
• Healthy Homes is a multi-agency initiative that addresses water quality, pesticides, and home safety.
• Energy Star educates consumers about the benefits of high-efficiency homes, appliances, consumer electronics, windows, lighting, and building materials.
• The Home Buyer Education and Counseling program includes pre-purchase, delinquency counseling, home maintenance, and post-purchase educational programs.

Partnerships

• The Healthy Homes Initiative is a partnership between CSREES and the Department of Housing and Urban Development addressing health and safety risks in homes.
• CSREES partners with two federal agencies in the Energy Star program, which educates consumers on housing issues.

Events

• National Home Indoor Air Quality Action and Awareness Month, October 2004.

Selected Results and Impacts

• The Healthy Indoor Air for America's Homes program influences consumers to change their behaviors and reduce risks associated with indoor air contamination.
• Healthy Homes state extension coordinators estimate that more than 44,000 consumers participated in or received information about the program.

Resources

• Energy Star, University of Georgia. Identifies partners' network and provides information on educational materials.
• "Indoor Air Hazards Every Homeowner Should Know About," Consumer Information Center, Pueblo, CO. Publication available in English and Spanish.
• Healthy Indoor Air for America's Homes, Montana State University. Information on health effects, indoor air hazards, educator resources, and state contacts.


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Contacts

Joseph L. Wysocki