The Benefits of Plants in Offices: Boosting Well-Being and Productivity
Glasshouse installation in an office environment. Plant show - Blue Star Fern (Phlebodium aureum)
In modern office environments, stress, noise, and lack of natural elements can impact employee well-being and productivity. One simple yet powerful solution is introducing plants into the workplace. Beyond aesthetic value, office plants bring significant health and performance benefits. Here are five key ways plants improve office spaces, backed by research.
Improved Air Quality
Indoor plants act as natural air purifiers by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They can also remove harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene, which are found in office furniture and cleaning supplies . Clean air leads to better health, reducing sick days and increasing overall employee well-being .
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Exposure to nature is proven to reduce stress levels. Studies have shown that employees working in offices with plants report significantly lower levels of stress and anxiety . The calming effect of greenery helps create a more relaxed environment, enhancing mental well-being and concentration .
Boosted Productivity
A University of Exeter study found that productivity in offices with plants increased by 15% . Being surrounded by greenery not only improves focus but also stimulates creativity. This mental boost allows employees to perform at their best, leading to higher-quality work output .
Better Employee Satisfaction
Plants make workspaces feel more welcoming and vibrant. Employees are more likely to feel engaged and satisfied in environments that incorporate natural elements. Biophilic designs, which integrate plants into office layouts, foster a connection to nature, contributing to higher morale and job satisfaction .
Enhanced Brand Image and Sustainability
Green offices align with corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability goals. Incorporating plants demonstrates a company’s commitment to environmental responsibility, improving both internal culture and external brand perception . Clients and visitors also tend to have a positive impression of businesses that prioritize green spaces .
How do you implement plants into your office space?
Adding plants to office spaces offers a wealth of benefits, from improved air quality to increased productivity and employee satisfaction. If you're looking to enhance your workspace, adding greenery is a simple yet effective solution that boosts well-being and aligns with sustainable business practices.
The Glasshouse provides bespoke planting displays as well as managing previously installed plants all whilst supporting women working towards a second chance. Get in touch today here to discuss all your botanical needs.
References:
NASA Clean Air Study, NASA, 1989.
Wolverton, B.C., “Plants that Purify the Air,” 1997.
Kaplan, S., “The Restorative Benefits of Nature,” Journal of Environmental Psychology, 1995.
University of Exeter, "Green Offices and Productivity," 2014.
Biophilic Design and Its Impact on Brand Image, The Nature of Work Study, 2016.
