Italy Takes Action on Indoor Air Quality

A major initiative aims to protect public health and improve economic efficiency by ensuring cleaner air indoors.

On October 21, a press conference was held at Rome’s Senate of the Republic, Nassirya Hall, highlighted a growing concern: the air we breathe indoors. The event, organized by Vice President of the Senate Gian Marco Centinaio, presented a new legislative proposal focused on hygiene standards for HVAC systems.

Data from the Indoor Air Quality Observatory (University of Milan-Bicocca and Bocconi University) suggest that the economic impact of indoor pollution could reach up to 5.22% of Italy’s GDP.

“Air quality is fundamental, not just outdoors, but wherever we live, work, or shop.”
 —Gian Marco Centinaio, Vice President of the Senate

Gregorio Mangano, President of AIISA and CEO of Techno One, stressed the hidden dangers of indoor pollution. “We don’t see what we breathe, especially inside air treatment systems. I often share photos to make people aware of daily pollutants. The problem carries high social costs and contributes to preventable deaths each year.”

The proposed legislation emphasizes prevention, scheduled maintenance, periodic inspections, and certified professional training, all without additional costs to the State by using existing resources efficiently.

NADCA was on hand to support the initiative, represented by Jim Castellano, President of the Board, and Kim Wieland, Chief Strategy Officer.

 “This proposal prioritizes awareness and sensitivity to indoor air quality rather than punitive measures.”
 —Andrea Casa, Emeritus President of AIISA and CEO of ALISEA

 Gaetano Settimo, Coordinator of the National Indoor Pollution Study Group (ISS), highlighted the public health benefits. “Indoor air quality is a cornerstone of health. Most of our time is spent indoors, so prevention must start there. It also boosts competitiveness in production and lowers healthcare costs.”

Speaking remotely, Susanna Dorigoni from Bocconi and Bicocca Universities emphasized economic impacts. “Social costs of poor indoor air are significant but can be transformed into societal benefits. Responsible companies can take advantage of this opportunity in a sustainability-focused context, without just incurring higher costs.”

 “Focusing on indoor air not only reduces comorbidities but also lowers healthcare costs.”
 —Gaetano Settimo, ISS

Key features include:

  • Targeted inspections and mandatory cleaning of air handling units
  • Standardized scientific procedures
  • Certified training for qualified personnel
  • Oversight through document and technical controls

Expected benefits:

  • Reduced respiratory diseases and hospital-acquired infections
  • Economic efficiencies through healthcare savings and workforce skill development
  • Clearer regulations and less bureaucracy for businesses and public administrators

Consultations with experts, industry associations, and health institutions will precede the formal introduction of the bill to Parliament.

Clean air is not just a health issue—it is a social and economic priority. Italy is taking steps to ensure that indoor environments are safer, healthier, and more sustainable for everyone.

 

AIISA and NADCA

Representatives from NADCA and AIISA