Schools and nurseries make up 15% of carbon emissions from UK public buildings. To reach net zero, this needs to be reduced, through building options, such as replacing boilers with heat pumps, and better insulation. However, some of these measures could have unintended effects on indoor air quality and therefore pupil health, attendance and attainment.

CHILI, led by University College London, will measure and evaluate the health outcomes for children and young people of adapting school buildings for energy efficiency. HAPPEN will build on its long history of measuring children’s health and wellbeing in Wales. SAMHE will use its wealth of experience of air quality work in schools to monitor how energy efficiency adaptations change the indoor environment. Together, SAMHE and HAPPEN will involve children and young people and school communities in CHILI, empowering them to understand and improve their school’s indoor environment.