Ask HN: Where can I find studies that link office plants to productivity

[flashcurd]

As part of a cost cutting measure at my workplace we've just had all the office greenery removed. In it's place we've got nothing but drab grey walls to look at.

If anyone knows of any papers that have been written that link office greenery to increased productivity could you post them in the comments. This way I might have an argument to take to the Higher-Ups about getting the greenery reinstated. Thanks

[mryan]

I found an article [1] which cites "The Effect of Live Plants and Window Views of Green Spaces on Employee Perceptions of Job Satisfaction" [2], by googling for "study shows plants office"... I was sure I would find a PR fluff piece with those terms!

See also [3]

[1] http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/eco-friendly/plants... [2] http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/43/... [3] http://www.plantcultureinc.com/whyGreen.html

[hoop]

This disturbs me. In spite being an avid gardener, I really can't see how watering a couple of plants actually costs any money (or how removing them saves any). With that being said, I too would like to see these studies

[marklabedz → hoop]

The contracts that most offices have with professional "gardeners" cost significantly more money than you may expect. If only hoop's office management would have realized that some people may be willing to take on some of the maintenance.

EDIT: Here's a presentation through the Green Building Council of Australia that highlights the benefits of indoor environments on productivity. Note however, it is sponsored by a company that offers the previously mentioned contracts.

(PDF) http://www.gbca.org.au/uploads/70/2886/Meet%20the%20Stars-%2...

Here is a study published in the American Society for Horticultural Sciences' HortScience journal: http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/cgi/content/full/43/1/18...

[hoop → marklabedz]

Thank you!

[triviatise]

Maybe have everyone sign up to water and care for the plants, then petition your boss and explain how you are solving the problem. Things like this show leadership so have side benefits as well.

giving a study which shows how the boss is wrong is probably not going to be that effective. A solution on the other hand is great. Also, try not to make it us vs. them

[staunch]

There are probably more plants in most prisons than your office. Something to think about.

[jonathanwallace]

Are you not allowed to bring your own plants in and care for them?

[flashcurd → jonathanwallace]

Yes I would be allowed but quite a few people want them back so I'd rather try and solve the problem for the entire office rather than just for myself.

[revorad]

Time for a new job!