Nature a key aspect of a sustainable workplace

Nature – a key aspect of a sustainable workplace Dr Paul Howe, Biodiversity Officer, Rushmoor Borough Council

Presentation outline • Background information – why is nature in the workplace good? • “biophilia” • What has Rushmoor done? • What can we do to bring nature into the workplace?

Nature in the workplace • The Global office environment in 2015: 47% 58%

Nature in the workplace • My office……

Nature in the workplace There is compelling (and growing) evidence that contact with nature: • Maintain good health • Help recovery from illness • Alleviate stress and mental illness • Enhance social interaction and community cohesion

Nature in the workplace None of this should really be a surprise…. • E. O. Wilson explored “biophilia” in his 1984 book • “biophilia” means “love of life or living systems” • Wilson elaborated - “the urge to affiliate with other forms of life”

Nature in the workplace • Interest in biophilia has grown over the last 10 years, probably due to rapid global urbanization • Since 1950 some countries have seen an increase of 40% in the number of people living in cities • The UN predicts that by 2030 60% of the world’s population will live in urban environments

Nature in the workplace Studies highlight the benefits of nature in the workplace: • A 2013 study in the US found that workers with a window view of a natural scene recovered from low-level stress much more quickly • Genzyme corporation new HQ was designed in a biophilic way – 18 months later 88% of staff had an improved sense of wellbeing and 75% felt more connected to co-workers

Nature in the workplace • What has been done at Rushmoor Civic offices…? Two “quads” Surrounded by offices

Nature in the workplace • A wildlife garden has been created in the northern quad…

Nature in the workplace • Wildflower planting in the southern quad…

Nature in the workplace • What can you do to bring nature into the work environment? Give as many people a window with a view…

Nature in the workplace • What can you do to bring nature into the work environment? Provide some Pot plants…or something bigger

Nature in the workplace • What can you do to bring nature into the work environment? Genzyme HQ

Nature in the workplace • What can you do to bring nature into the work environment? Make the most of outdoor space… create space for nature

Nature in the workplace • What can you do to bring nature into the work environment? • Engage employees in planting wildlife-friendly shrubs and plants • Create a wildflower patch • Make a water feature (wildlife friendly pond? ) • Put up nest boxes…

Nature in the workplace • What can you do to bring nature into the work environment? CSC in Aldershot put cameras in nest boxes built by staff

Nature in the workplace • What can we do in planning? Ensure new schemes consider: • Appropriate landscaping • Green roofs • Green Walls?