Improve Air Quality with Indoor Plants
Research by NASA shows indoor plants reduce the levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in office air. VOCs such as benzene, toluene and formaldehyde are emitted by office furnishings, carpets, copiers, printers, glues and cleaning products. These harmful VOCs are absorbed by micro organisms found in the potting media of healthy indoor plants.
The direct benefits of indoor plants on the air we breathe are evident:
- Pollutants (VOCs) are filtered from indoor
- Carbon dioxide levels are reduced
- Humidity levels are regulated
- Airborne moulds and bacteria are suppressed
By improving air quality, indoor plants help reduce 'Sick Building Syndrome'. Common symptoms include sore or dry throat, cough, headache, dry eyes and fatigue. These symptoms can then lead to feeling unwell, poor productivity and staff absenteeism. Extensive studies have found the following results occur with the introduction of indoor plants to office buildings:
'Sick Building Syndrome' ailment reduction
- Fatigue 20%
- Headache 30%
- Sore/dry throat 30%
- Cough 40%
- Dry facial skin 25%
Research also suggests plants have a significant effect on the physical and mental wellbeing of employees, by reducing blood pressure and increasing reaction times, attentiveness and concentration.
Indoor plants also have a significant effect on the physical and emotional wellbeing of office workers. Research shows reduced stress levels and blood pressure and increased concentration. Installing indoor plants is a cost effective method of providing an attractive healthy workplace, improving personnel wellbeing and business profitability.
