To contribute to a reduction in local air pollution through the use of low emission combustion appliances in the building.

• Improved air quality for building occupants, visitors and neighbours leading to better health and wellbeing outcomes.
• Increased staff satisfaction and productivity.
• Enhanced acceptability of a building locally, especially in areas with compromised air quality that have their emissions even more tightly controlled.

Poor air quality has a detrimental effect on humans, fauna and flora. Gases such as nitrous oxides (NOₓ) can react with other gases and environmental factors including sunlight to create substances that have a major impact on health and wellbeing. The resulting substances can be highly detrimental to human health. They can be carcinogenic, affect respiratory function (including asthma and other bronchial complaints), have a sensitising effect for allergy suffers and increase instances of heart disease. Legislation covering the UK sets maximum acceptable limits for measured air pollutants. Under this issue BREEAM seeks to limit emissions from developments in use that affect local air quality.