Sustainability in building environment : a review and analysis of mould growth in a subtropical climate

Abstract

A literature review on environmental sustainability and airborne spore (mould) growth in buildings in a subtropical climate is presented first, then the characteristics of moulds in subtropical Central Queensland University (CQU) Rockhampton campus buildings are analysed. The fungal spore concentrations indoors and outdoors are compared and correlations between fungal spore concentrations and environmental parameters such as temperature and humidity are developed. Subtropical Central Queensland (Rockhampton) region’s have two main seasons: wet (December-March) and dry (May-October). Specific genera of moulds and total spores were identified and recovered colonies were counted from the airborne samples. The SPSS (Statistical Product and Service Solutions) software was used for nonparametric data analysis. Total airborne fungal spore concentrations were found highest in the dry season and lowest in the wet season and were positively correlated with relative humidity and temperature. Further studies are recommended for controlling moulds growth in subtropical climate