Unlocking the benefits of incorporating green spaces into the workplace has become increasingly popular in recent years, writes Allenby Commercial on its web site.
The Hull-based commercial property company says the placement of natural features like plants, trees and water features into the workplace can have significantly positive impacts on employees’ health, productivity and overall well-being.
“One of the main benefits of indoor green spaces is their ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels. There have been many studies to show that exposure to natural elements indoors can have a calming effect on the mind and body, leading to lower stress levels and improved mood with employees. Not only does this have a general positive impact on employee health, it helps increase job satisfaction and encourage a more positive work environment.
“Another benefit of incorporating green spaces indoors is the improved air quality. Natural plants can absorb pollutants in the air and in return release oxygen. Improved air quality can reduce and prevent headaches, migraine, fatigue and eye, nose, throat and lung irritation. The reduction of these goes hand in hand with the reduction of employee sick days when air quality is improved.”
The article goes on to say the final benefit of incorporating green spaces is their ability to enhance and promote creativity and productivity. “Studies have shown that employees of workplaces that have incorporated green spaces tend to be more productive and creative than those that don’t. As well as this, plants and natural elements help improve focus. Overall, all of these lead to better workplace performance and higher job satisfaction.”
Outdoor green spaces — whether that be a courtyard, garden or green roof can have similar benefits, the company says, adding that more and more businesses use natural green spaces in urban environments because of their environmental benefits. “More businesses are trying to reduce their carbon footprint and incorporating green areas is a great way to do this. Trees, plants and flowers all absorb harmful pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, release oxygen and also attract wildlife to the area.
“Another benefit of outdoor green spaces is the positive effect it has on mental health. Studies have shown that being outdoors in an area exposed to green spaces helps improve cognitive function, attention span and memory whilst reducing stress, anxiety and depression.”
