As the conversation around sustainability, health, and energy efficiency continues to gain traction, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) is making an urgent call to action: Prioritise indoor air quality in national retrofit strategies. 

Their message is clear - Tackling air quality isn't just about cleaner air; it's about creating healthier homes, reducing strain on public services, and unlocking thousands of new job opportunities across the UK.

A Healthier UK Starts at Home

In support of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Healthy Homes and Buildings, BESA is backing a movement that repositions the built environment as a key driver of public health. Poor air quality, draughty homes, and inadequate ventilation are not just comfort issues, they’re costing the NHS £1.4 billion annually and contributing to a broader £18.5 billion hit to the UK economy.

The APPG’s Healthy Homes Manifesto outlines the need for a national programme of building retrofits that prioritises wellbeing. This includes integrating indoor air quality metrics into Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), ensuring homes are not only energy efficient but also safe and supportive of physical and mental health.

The Recruitment Ripple Effect

So what does this mean for the UK’s job market?

A nationwide retrofit strategy focused on health and sustainability has the potential to create over 500,000 jobs. From heating and ventilation engineers to energy consultants, construction workers, and health & safety specialists, the opportunity to grow a diverse, skilled workforce is immense.

As recruiters, we see first-hand the rising demand for professionals in sustainable construction, energy management, and environmental engineering. Policies like this drive long-term job creation, while also increasing the value of technical and trade careers that are essential for making this vision a reality.

Increased government support and funding for training and apprenticeships in retrofit-related fields would also open the door for young professionals and career changers, expanding the talent pipeline and boosting employment nationwide.

Wellbeing, Community, and Opportunity

Beyond job creation, these improvements contribute to social cohesion, better educational outcomes, and reduced healthcare pressures. According to BESA’s Technical Director, Kevin Morrissey, the built environment has the power to support “social aspiration and community spirit.”

For employers, that means a healthier, more productive workforce. For society, it means progress toward net zero targets while raising living standards across communities.

A Call to Action

As we approach Clean Air Day on 19 June, BESA is walking in support of the Ella Roberta Foundation, honouring the legacy of Ella Kissi-Debrah, the first person in the world to have air pollution officially listed as a cause of death. Her story underscores the urgency of acting now to protect future generations.

By joining health, housing, sustainability, and employment goals into one national vision, the UK can create a future-ready economy where buildings not only house people but actively support their wellbeing.

Looking to get involved in the movement toward healthier homes and a more sustainable future? 

Whether you're hiring or job hunting in this space, Bennett & Game can help you find the right people or opportunities to make a real impact. Get in touch with our team of recruitment experts today.

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