The Role of Plants in Improving Indoor Air Quality

The quality of the air around us is incredibly important as it can have huge impacts on our health as well as our mood and can even change the way in which we work. A lot of focus has been given to the quality of the air outdoors, but as we spend as much as 90% of our time indoors, it is important that we centre much of our attention on the air that we find here.

There are many ways that we can improve our indoor air quality through ventilation and filtration systems, but a more natural method is through introducing some well-chosen plants to our homes and offices. In this article, IAQ Services look at how plants on our desks and windowsills can improve the air that we breathe, and which ones are the most effective.

What is indoor air quality?

The air that we breathe is made up of many different things, and not all of them are good for us. Instead of being fresh and pure, there can be a number of things such as pollen and allergens in the air, we can trigger allergies and respiratory problems when inhaled. In addition to this, there is also particulate matter, which can include things such as dust which can also have a negative impact on our health.

Our air should be made up mainly of nitrogen, oxygen, argon and very small amounts of carbon dioxide, but this is rarely actually the case. Not only are there elevated levels of carbon dioxide, but there is also some pretty nasty stuff mixed in there, including carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide. This can be even worse when we open our windows for some fresh air and find that we are actually letting more pollutants in.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, more of us became aware of the viruses and bacteria that can also be carried in the air. When one person coughs or sneezes, millions of bugs can be released into the atmosphere to breathe in, and so this also contributes to our indoor air quality.

The process of photosynthesis

Most of us are aware that the process of deforestation is a dangerous one, as we need the trees that are being cut down to help draw damaging carbon dioxide out of the air and replace it with oxygen. However, very few of us think that the same process could apply to our homes and workplaces by using plants.

During photosynthesis, the carbon dioxide in the air is captured by the green leaves of the plant. It uses the energy from the sun to make glucose from water and the carbon dioxide and stores this within the plant cells. As the process takes place, oxygen is also created and released back into the atmosphere, which can play a huge role in supporting the wellbeing of those in space. It is still difficult to measure the extent at which this happens, and how many plants will be needed in order for them to have a meaningful effect.

Nitrogen dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide is a common pollutant in the air, and usually occurs when fossil fuels such as coal, oil or gas are burned at high temperatures.

This means that some cookers, fires and central heating systems can release nitrogen dioxide, which can be responsible for inflaming the airways and affecting the health of our lungs.

Some studies have shown that common house plants have been capable of lowering the amount of nitrogen dioxide in the air, with peace lillies (Spathiphyllum wallisii), Corn plants (Dracaena fragrans) and fern arums (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) being some of the most effective. This is because they are able to filter pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide through their leaves, although the full process that is involved is not yet fully understood.

Effective houseplants

The peace lily is one of the most popular choices when it comes to improving indoor air quality thanks to their ability to absorb airborne toxins through their leaves, passing them through their roots and breaking them down within the soil. Aloe vera is another common sight as it absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, therefore purifying the air through the night.

The Weeping Fig is a small tree with broad leaves that is a favourite in many homes. It can live as long as 50 years when kept in the right conditions and has been known to purify the air of some of the chemicals released by common household products such as nail polish, adhesives and stain removers. Whilst it can be a very effective plant, it is worth noting that it can be harmful to animals and so is not suitable for a home with pets.

The Boston Fern is another leafy houseplant that can be good for the air, but this time in a different way. Instead of removing chemicals, it actually restores moisture and acts as a natural humidifier.

If you are not naturally green fingered, looking after a house full of plants might seem daunting, so think about starting off with a Spider Plant. These are very easy to look after and are also great at removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Dracaena is a plant that is capable of growing every tool, so it is not one for small spaces. However, if you can fit one into your home, it can be a very efficient air purifier. If you have recently redecorated, then it might be worth considering adding a Bamboo Palm to your home as it can purify the air of many of the chemicals associated with paint and new carpet, although this is another one that needs a lot of room to grow.

Whilst it can be hard to measure exactly how effective plants are at improving our indoor air quality, there is no doubt that they can make a significant impact on it. As plants can also benefit our mood and mental health, there are very few downsides to having a few new leafy friends in your home.