Sustainability is an important aspect of running a modern business. Companies have a responsibility to protect the environment and reduce their carbon footprint. One simple way to achieve sustainability in the office is by incorporating living plants into the workspace.
Not only do plants improve the aesthetic of the office, but they can also have a positive effect on employee wellbeing. In this article, we will explore how to create a sustainable workspace by sourcing and growing plants in a responsible way.
Sustainability through Sourcing
When sourcing plants for the office, it’s important to consider their origin. Sourcing plants grown locally, or imported from nearby countries, reduces their carbon footprint and helps support local businesses. At Aztec Plants we work with UK and European nurseries that specialise in indoor plants. This not only supports local businesses, but also reduces transportation emissions.
When it comes to selecting planters, avoid single-use plastic pots. Instead, choose sustainable alternatives such as metal or timber containers.
- Metal planters are recyclable and can be repurposed for future use.
- Timber planters will decompose over time, providing nutrients to the soil.
- Consider reconditioning planters from a previous user. See example.
- Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) planters are also a great option because they last long and are locally made in the UK.
Sustainability through Growing Practices
Traditional compost is made with peat, which is not a sustainable material. Peat is often harvested from bogs, which destroys valuable ecosystems and contributes to carbon emissions. A peat-free compost doesn’t have enough nutrients for the plants and can look messy.
However, there are sustainable alternatives available. One option is LECA (Light Expanded Clay Aggregate), which can be used to grow plants in water (hydroculture). LECA provides support for plant roots and can be reused multiple times.
Selecting Living Plants with a Long Lifespan
When selecting plants for the office, it’s important to choose ones that will last long. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also means you won’t have to replace them as frequently.
Some examples of commonly used office plants with a long lifespan include:
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): The peace lily is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in low-light conditions. It also has air-purifying properties.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum): The spider plant is a hardy plant that can survive in a variety of light conditions. It’s also great at purifying the air.
- Plants that require less water, such as succulents, are also a great choice for the sustainable office.
Conclusion
Incorporating living plants into the office can have a positive impact on employee well-being and can contribute to a sustainable workspace. When sourcing plants, consider their origin and choose sustainable planters.
Use LECA instead of peat-based compost, and select plants that have a long lifespan. With these tips, you can create a beautiful and sustainable workspace that benefits both your employees and the environment.