Here's how we can heat, ventilate and cool buildings more efficiently

Some of the housing blocks with heating, ventilation and cooling systems. [Getty Images]

We spend a large amount of our time indoors - some studies estimate around 90 per cent - so clearly, we want our homes, offices, restaurants and classrooms to be comfortable and healthy and to make us feel well. Most of all, we want our buildings will keep us warm in winter and cool in summer. It is no wonder, then, that heating, ventilation and cooling systems account for about half of the buildings' energy consumption.

But can we heat and cool buildings more efficiently and effectively? The first challenge is getting the right temperature. The most widespread method used for creating a comfortable temperature in buildings seeks to provide optimal thermal comfort for most people occupying a given room.