The benefits of having plants in the office have been widely discussed in recent years, with many claiming that they can improve air quality, boost productivity, and even reduce stress levels. But is there any truth to these claims, or are they simply myths perpetuated by the plant industry? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the evidence to see whether plants really can improve air quality in the office.
The benefits of plants in the office
Before we dive into the science behind whether plants improve air quality, let’s take a look at some of the other benefits of having plants in the office:
- Boost productivity
Research has shown that having plants in the office can increase productivity by up to 15%. This is partly because plants help to reduce stress levels, but also because they can help to create a more pleasant and stimulating working environment.
- Improve mental health
Studies have shown that being surrounded by nature, even if it’s just a few potted plants, can have a positive impact on mental health. Plants can help to reduce anxiety and depression, and can even improve overall mood.
- Reduce noise levels
Plants can also help to reduce noise levels in the office. This is because they absorb sound waves, which can help to create a quieter and more peaceful working environment.
- Improve air quality
Finally, of course, there’s the claim that plants can improve air quality in the office. This is the benefit we’ll be focusing on in the rest of this article.
The science behind plants and air quality
So, can plants really improve air quality in the office? The short answer is: yes, they can. Here’s how:
- They remove pollutants
Plants are able to remove certain pollutants from the air through a process known as phytoremediation. This involves the plant taking in harmful pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde through its leaves, and then breaking them down into harmless compounds.
- They produce oxygen
Plants are also able to produce oxygen through photosynthesis. This means that they can help to increase the levels of oxygen in the air, which can have a range of health benefits.
- They regulate humidity
Plants can also help to regulate humidity levels in the office. This is because they release water vapour into the air through a process known as transpiration. This can help to keep the air moist, which can be beneficial for those who suffer from dry skin or respiratory issues.
- They improve ventilation
Finally, having plants in the office can help to improve ventilation. This is because they can help to circulate air around the room, which can prevent stale air from building up in one area.
The evidence for plant’s ability to improve air quality
So, we know that plants can theoretically improve air quality in the office, but is there any actual evidence to back up these claims? The answer is yes, there is.
In a study published in the journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research, researchers found that having plants in the office led to a significant reduction in levels of benzene and formaldehyde in the air. Another study, published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology, found that having plants in the office led to a reduction in stress levels and an increase in productivity.
However, it’s worth noting that not all studies have found a positive effect of plants on air quality. A study published in the journal Building and Environment found that plants had no significant effect on indoor air quality in an office setting. So, while there is some evidence to support the claims that plants can improve air quality in the office, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of their impact.
Choosing the right plants for the office
If you’re convinced that having plants in the office is a good idea, you may be wondering which plants are best suited to the environment. Here are some tips to help you choose the right plants for your office:
- Consider light levels
Different plants have different light requirements, so it’s important to choose plants that will thrive in the amount of light available in your office. If your office has plenty of natural light, you may want to choose plants that require a lot of sunlight, such as succulents or cacti. If your office is on the darker side, consider plants that can tolerate low light levels, such as snake plants or pothos.
- Think about maintenance
Not all plants require the same level of maintenance, so consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into caring for them. If you’re short on time, choose low-maintenance plants such as spider plants or peace lilies. If you have more time to dedicate to plant care, you may want to consider more high-maintenance options such as orchids or bonsai trees.
- Choose plants that are safe for pets
If you have pets in the office, it’s important to choose plants that are safe for them to be around. Some plants can be toxic to pets if ingested, so be sure to do your research before bringing any plants into the office. Some safe options include spider plants, bamboo palms, and Boston ferns.
- Consider the size of the plant
Finally, consider the size of the plants you’re considering. If you have limited space in the office, you may want to choose smaller plants that can be placed on desks or shelves. If you have more space available, you may want to consider larger plants such as fiddle leaf figs or rubber plants.
Conclusion
Overall, having plants in the office can lead to numerous benefits such as improving air quality, increasing productivity, and decreasing stress levels. Although some studies have not found a positive impact on air quality, there is enough evidence to suggest that plants can have a beneficial effect. When selecting plants for the office, it’s important to consider factors like lighting, maintenance needs, and pet safety. Whether it’s a few small plants or a lush indoor garden, incorporating plants into the office can create a healthier and more pleasant workspace.