SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO ENERGY EFFICIENCY: MITIGATION OF INDOOR MICROCLIMATE AIR PARAMETERS IN A NATURALLY VENTILATED LIVESTOCK BUILDING

Indoor air pollution mitigation measures within a livestock building are crucial to farmer and bird health, livability of flock and animal productivity. Such measures are essential to minimise the accumulation of noxious gases that also affect the microclimate of the rural adjacent region. In the present study carbon dioxide and ammonia concentration, temperature and relative humidity were monitored in a naturally ventilated organic laying hen house in Northern Greece. Measurements were performed at one sampling point in the middle of the building by using open source device technology and compatible sensors for ammonia, temperature and humidity measurements and a carbon dioxide meter with a non-dispersive infrared CO2 sensor for carbon dioxide measurements during a 12-day period in spring. The main goal of this work was the evaluation of the contribution of natural ventilation in controlling indoor air quality parameters in the poultry house. Two different days were chosen one during which the side windows were closed for one hour and then re-opened and one when they remained open as usually done. Results identified the efficient function of the side openings and of the circular air vents along the ceiling of the structure indicating that the implementation of natural ventilation provides an adequate, sustainable and energy-efficient solution towards mitigating indoor air pollution.