“Building Biology Testing Specialists measure, identify, and document risk factors to health and provide individualized remediation recommendations that meet the client’s unique needs.”
Johannes Schmidt
Building Biology Professional
and Testing Specialist IBN
What is Building Biology?
Bau Biologie, or Building Biology, is an interdisciplinary approach to addressing health effects of our built environments. It focuses on creating living and working spaces that support human health, environmental sustainability,
and well-being by utilizing science based testing and standards to create measurable results .
The roots of Bau Biologie, translated as "Building for Life", can be traced back to post-World War II Germany, a time marked by rapid reconstruction and industrialization. In the aftermath of the war, there was a surge in the use of synthetic building materials, new construction methods, and chemical-based products. While these innovations enabled quick rebuilding, they also introduced a host of unintended consequences, including indoor air pollution, exposure to toxic substances, and the degradation of traditional construction practices.
Dr. Anton Schneider, often regarded as the father of Bau Biologie, began investigating these issues in the 1960s. Schneider, a building scientist, observed correlations between modern construction practices and an increase in health problems such as respiratory issues, fatigue, and allergies. Recognizing the growing impact of unhealthy buildings on human well-being, he set out to study and redefine what it meant to create a healthy indoor environment. His work laid the foundation for Bau Biologie as a discipline as well as the formation of the Institute of Building Biology & Sustainability (IBN).
Although it began in Germany, Bau Biologie has since gained global recognition. It resonates with movements such as green building, biophilic design, and sustainable architecture. In the 1980s, Helmut Ziehe brought the concepts of Bau Biologie to the United States and founded the Institute of Bau-Biologie & Ecology, now known as Building Biology Institute. Helmut, who studied under Anton Schneider, translated the orignal German documents into English, and creating the foundations for the current certifications offered through BBI.
As awareness of the connection between human health and the built environment grows, Bau Biologie remains a cornerstone for designing spaces that nurture both individuals and the planet. It encourages us to reconsider how we build and inhabit our spaces, advocating for a holistic approach to architecture that prioritizes life, health, and harmony.
What does a Building Biologist do?
A building biologist is a professional who uses science-based standards to evaluate and optimize indoor environments for health, well-being, and sustainability. They assess homes, offices, and other spaces for potential hazards such as indoor air pollution, mold, toxic materials, inadequate ventilation, and electromagnetic fields (EMFs). By measuring these factors against established health benchmarks, they identify areas of concern and recommend evidence-based solutions, such as improving air quality, using non-toxic materials, reducing EMF exposure, and enhancing ventilation and thermal comfort. Their work ensures that living and working spaces are not only safe but also supportive of long-term human health and environmental sustainability.
What are the benefits?
Building biology offers numerous benefits by creating indoor environments that promote health, well-being, and sustainability. By addressing common hazards like indoor air pollution, mold, toxic materials, and electromagnetic fields (EMFs), it helps reduce the risk of allergies, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Building biology also supports environmental sustainability by advocating for the use of natural, renewable materials and energy-efficient design. Additionally, its emphasis on harmonious and biophilic design fosters mental well-being and comfort, making spaces more enjoyable and conducive to productivity.