## 1 Introduction  
Energy efficiency has gained significant attention in recent years as a means of lowering harmful emissions, enhancing buildings' performance, and guaranteeing more sustainable building practices. This approach contributes to the creation of greener areas, reduces energy waste, and aids in international environmental protection initiatives. The number of studies addressing energy-efficient improvements for sustainable buildings has been constantly increasing [1, 2, 3, 4]. However, many of these studies have faced unresolved challenges and limitations. Energy efficiency in sustainable construction is a rapidly evolving and significant topic that requires deeper exploration to address the existing gaps. [PERSON] et al. [5] highlighted the need for more in-depth, data-driven research to fill knowledge gaps and improve the practical application of energy efficiency strategies in sustainable buildings, as well as the need to overcome stakeholder attitudes towards energy-inefficient activities and the practical application of clean technologies. Comfortremains a universal priority, making the study of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) essential. IEQ involves elements like air quality, temperature, noise, and lighting, which significantly enhance quality of life; lower stress; conserve energy; and promote health, productivity, and well-being [6]. Educational buildings play a crucial role in IEQ due to the large number of occupants that spend long hours in these spaces. Factors such as noise, air quality, lighting, and temperature affect students' focus, productivity, and overall well-being [7; 8]. The proper design of these buildings is essential to ensure efficient energy use while maintaining comfort and minimizing environmental impacts. Improving the IEQ in educational buildings can enhance academic performance, reduce stress, and support the health of both students and staff [9; 10; 11]. These buildings make up a substantial part of the total building inventory and are known for their high energy consumption, especially due to their lighting, cooling, and heating requirements. Given their impact on both energy use and occupant well-being, there has been growing focus in recent years on researching the IEQ and improving the energy performance in these types of buildings [12; 13]. This change reflects growing concerns about making educational environments more sustainable and energy-efficient. As the impact of energy use and resource consumption in schools becomes more evident, there has been increasing focus on improving the sustainability of these buildings while ensuring that they remain comfortable and effective for learning [9; 14], but this research has been limited in its applicability to higher education environments and has not fully explored or quantified the impact of indoor sources of pollution compared to that if outdoor sources. Environmental impacts, including climate change, air, water, and land pollution, are linked to categories like global warming potential and energy demand, with rapid climate change, primarily driven by human activities such as energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating urgent efforts to reduce emissions and increase energy efficiency. Operational carbon, accounting for 37% of global energy-related emissions, arises from the use of energy to cool, heat, ventilate, light, and power buildings. Building design involves key decisions on a structure's shape, orientation, and height; the material selection; and the dimensions of its components [15]. Modern school designs are increasingly prioritizing green and healthy learning environments, with communities incorporating more green spaces into the planning and development of educational facilities to promote sustainability and well-being [16], without establishing a causal relationship between green spaces and academic performance.