1. They help to reduce stress
A 2010 study by the new University of Technology, Sydney, found significant reductions in stress among workers when plants were introduced to their workspace. Results included a 37% fall in reported tension and anxiety; a 58% drop in depression or dejection; a 44% decrease in anger and hostility; and a 38% reduction in fatigue.
2. They help to reduce sickness and absence rates
The 2015 Human Spaces report, which studied 7,600 office workers in 16 countries, found that nearly two-thirds (58%) of workers have no live plants in their workspaces. Those whose environments incorporated natural elements reported a 15% higher wellbeing score and a 6% higher productivity score than employees whose offices didn’t include such elements.
3. They make workspaces more attractive to job applicants
Commenting on the 2015 Human Spaces report when it was released, organisational psychology professor Sir Cary Cooper said: “The benefit of design inspired by nature, known as biophilic design, is accumulating evidence at a rapid pace. Looking at a snapshot of global working environments, up to one in five people have no natural elements within their workspace, and alarmingly nearly 50% of workers have no natural light. Yet a third of us say that workplace design would affect our decision to join a company.
Visual benefits of office plants
Plants not only bring varying rich shades of green to the workplace, they also offer the visually-meditative experience that, ultimately, leads to happier and healthier employees that are more productive. Providing plants for the office offers both customers and colleagues alike a visually enhanced perception of your space. An office teeming with vibrant greenery will also convey a positive brand image to visitors.
