Modern workplaces are busy places filled with technology, artificial light, and air conditioning. People spend 90 percent or more of their time indoors. Although they are designed for comfort and productivity, these environments can sometimes create hidden health issues due to things like indoor air quality and stress. A simple, natural, and effective way to improve workplace health that is gaining interest is by adding indoor plants to the office space.
Indoor plants are more than just “decor“. They provide natural air purification and stress relief, and also contribute to productivity. Let us recognize how indoor plants can lead to cleaner air, and mostly importantly, happier and healthier employees.
Natural air purifiers
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dust, mold spores, and other contaminants can exist in the air of your home. These substances are often emitted from items in your office such as furniture, cleaning supplies, electronics, and specific building materials.
NASA’s Clean Air Study found certain houseplants improved indoor air quality by removing up to 87% of air toxins within 24 hours. Spider plants, snake plants, peace lilies, and pothos are especially effective at removing:
• Benzene (found in some plastics and resins)
• Formaldehyde (emitted from paper products)
• Trichloroethylene (in some solvents and adhesives)
• Carbon monoxide
Indoor plants can absorb VOCs through their leaves and roots, which helps reduce air toxins, creating a healthier space to breathe.
More Oxygen and Humidity
Plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen through photosynthesis. This process creates more oxygen in the expression, particularly during the day. Some plants also give off moisture vapor as part of transpiration, which in turn adds to humidity indoors.
In timely office environments, additional humidity will:
- Reduce irritation of the eyes, skin, and throat
- Reduce respiratory discomfort
- Reduce the spread of airborne viruses
In addition to that, humidity in the range of 30% to 60% will help protect wooden furniture, reduce static electricity, and improve comfort.
Less Stress and Better Mental Health
Research conducted by the University of Exeter and published through the American Psychological Association suggest that having plants in an office promotes:
- Lower blood pressure and heart rates
- Lower levels of cortisol (the “stress hormone”)
- Feelings of calm and satisfaction
Seeing more green in the workplace correlates with improved mood, decreased fatigue, and increased mindfulness. Even the smallest of desk plants or vertical green walls can improve morale and afford measurable relief to stress during an active job.
Increased Concentration and Productivity
A green office not only is healthier, but it can also lead to higher productivity. Employee studies indicate that indoor plants in the office increase:
- Up to 15% productivity
- Better memory recall and focus
- Reduced headaches and eye strain
Plants help decrease background noise levels and provide an aesthetic visual break from screens, which results in improved cognition and lower mental fatigue.
Reduced Sick Days and Sick Building Syndrome
“Sick Building Syndrome” describes symptoms of headaches, dizziness, nausea, or irritation associated with being in non-ventilated workplaces. Indoor plants help reduce these symptoms and create a healthier and more balanced environment by filtering airborne toxins and humidifying the air.
Fewer sick days and healthier employees lead to higher morale and better productivity for the organization.
Best Plants for Offices
When selecting indoor plants for a workspace, consider low-maintenance plants that improve air quality and are tolerant of artificial lighting. Some great options are:
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
- Areca Palm
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Aloe Vera
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