Office plants reduce stress
Research was undertaken to further the understanding of the benefits of potted plants in reducing indoor air pollution and aiding the well being of occupants. Professor Margaret Burchett, head of the study said “it confirms the benefits of indoor plants extend well beyond their contribution to air quality”*.
The results indicate highly significant reductions in negative mood states when plants are nearby. Levels of anger, anxiety, depression, confusion, fatigue and stress were all slashed when plant life was present.
Two sets of participants were analysed, one set with plants installed and the other without. The results before and after installing plants were compared to measure the effects. Where plants were present in offices the participants were showing:
• 50% reduction in overall stress
• 58% reduction in depression
• 44% reduction in anger
• 37% reduction in anxiety
• 30% reduction in confusion
Source: NIPA
Even though more research is needed and intended, this alone is enough evidence to state that office plants do provide psychological benefits to staff in the workplace.
This was the final part of a three year study “Greening the Great Indoors for Human Health and Wellbeing” conducted by Nursery and Garden Industry Australia and the Health Interior Plantscape Association.
* quote from Monument Magazine.
