Reductions in negative mood states and feelings of stress by up to 60 per cent have been found among people with plants in their offices in a study.
"We found such significant difference in scores for participants in offices with plants as opposed to those without, that it confirms the benefits of indoor plants extend well beyond their contribution to air quality," says the head of the study, adjunct professor Margaret Burchett.
Researchers from the University of Technology Sydney utilised standard psychological survey instruments to assess the effects of indoor plants on occupants’ mood states and feelings of well-being.
"While our group of 40 people was small, the results were very significant because of the proven methods used. The sizeable reductions in negative mood states like tension can only have a positive effect on productivity and satisfaction," says Burchett.
Across a series of tests conducted before and after plants were present in offices, people showed:
• 37 per cent reduction in tension/anxiety
• 58 per cent reduction in depression/dejection
• 44 per cent reduction in anger/hostility
• 38 per cent reduction in fatigue
• 30 per cent reduction in confusion
• 4.5 per cent increase in vigour
The findings were the final part of a three-year study, Greening the Great Indoors for Human Health and Wellbeing, conducted by UTS and supported by the Nursery and Garden Industry Australia and the National Interior Plantscape Association (NIPA).
Ambius, a member of NIPA, says the results have further added weight to the recognition given by the Green Building Council Australia in its Green Star rating scheme which acknowledges the role plants have to play.
"Obviously we are pleased with the results, which offer further compelling reasons for indoor plants to become a standard installation element in an urban building or facility environment," says Ray Borg, Ambius regional director for the Asia Pacific Region.
"Greening inside is not just a cool thing to do — it clearly makes us feel better and is good economic sense."
