Nov 19, 20233 min read

The benefits and drawbacks to having access to greenspace at work.

In recent years, it has been found that having plants in the workplace is not just a way to decorate the office, but it also has several health and productivity benefits. However, there are also some downsides to having plants in the workplace. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of having plants in the workplace.

Pros of having plants in the workplace:

Improved air quality: through biofiltration, plants absorb carbon dioxide, and volatile organic compounds, then release oxygen, which can improve the air quality in the workplace. According to a study by NASA, some plants can also remove harmful toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia from the air. However, for a plant to compete against modern biofiltration systems, you would need a lot of plants, around ten per square meter.
Boost productivity: Studies have shown that having plants in the workplace can boost productivity and creativity by up to 12%; further, plants can reduce stress, improve concentration and increase job satisfaction. In fact, having a plant nearby can lead to fewer sick days.
Reduce noise levels: Plant parts, such as leaves, stems, and branches, can also absorb and reflect sound, which can reduce noise levels in the workplace. This is not helpful if you intend on getting a shrub.
Improve satisfaction and commitment: a view of natural elements can make the workplace look more appealing and welcoming, which can have a positive impact on employees' job satisfaction and commitment to their role; this is due to the calming effect of the natural element, which buffers the effects of job stress and anxiety

Con of having plants in the workplace:

Allergies: Some people may have allergies to certain plants, which can cause respiratory problems and other allergic reactions. The mould, pollen, or dust can be collected on leaves and soil, which may trigger those with asthma. This can be prevented by not over-watering, wiping plants regularly, and keeping pollinators outside.
Thinking of getting a fake plant; although it would be a lot less work, they don’t work! This was proven through a small study conducted on 23 students. Brain scans showed that those who shared the classroom with real plants were more alert and focused than the control groups who were exposed to fake plants, a photo of a plant, or no plants at all. This study suggests that incorporating actual plants into learning environments can enhance cognitive function and should be considered as an option for educators.

In conclusion, fake plants do not offer the same benefits as real ones. Plants in the workplace have both advantages and disadvantages. The benefits include, reduced stress, improved air quality, boosted productivity, reduced noise levels, and improved satisfaction and commitment. However, it is advised that people may have allergies to plants; do consider this before turning your office desk into a stand that resembles something from the Chelsea Flower Show.