Indoor green walls naturally improve air quality by reducing nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, fine particulate matter, and ozone concentration by about 40%, 60%, 10%, and 30%, respectively.

They are an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option.

Indoor green walls have air purification benefits and can reduce stress and anxiety, positively impacting mental health.

Green walls can improve mood, overall well-being, and create a sense of security.

Certain plants, like Lily bamboo and Hydrangea, are suitable for green walls and can help purify the air.

Indoor green walls can reduce indoor temperature by 1.8 ℃.

Indoor green walls significantly improve air quality, with some plants removing pollutants within 8 hours.

Indoor green walls can benefit mental health by providing a calming environment.

Looking at nature improves mental health and well-being, reducing anxiety and improving mood.

Gazing at indoor green walls can maintain mental health and reduce anxiety.

When choosing plants for indoor green walls, consider the climate and region, as some plants suit tropical or temperate climates better.

Green walls can reduce indoor PM2.5 by 10% and ozone by 30%, improving air quality.

Indoor green walls cost $200 to $1200 per square meter and can last up to 25 years.

Indoor green walls are a valuable investment, providing benefits for air quality, mental health, and energy efficiency.

Eco properties have higher market values and promote healthier living.

Sustainable construction reduces environmental impact and costs while increasing property values.

Interacting with nature and having green views from home improves mental health and reduces negative emotions.

Gardening and conserving local tree species in urban areas improves human health and biodiversity.

Green spaces and outdoor activities reduce depression and anxiety, and improve cognitive function.

Indoor green walls naturally improve air quality by reducing nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, fine particulate matter, and ozone concentration by about 40%, 60%, 10%, and 30%, respectively.

Title:

Content: In order to improve the environmental air quality and let children learn with peace of mind, the Taichung Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau has continued to build a clean air green wall in the school. This year, 12 schools in Jianping Elementary School, Juren Elementary School and Chongde Elementary School have received subsidies from the Environmental Protection Department.
According to the Environmental Protection Bureau, through the installation of clean air green walls, indoor air quality can be improved. At present, space such as classroom corridors and flower stands outside the daughter wall in Taichung City can be planted, which can achieve the benefits of dust retention, air pollution absorption and temperature regulation.
In order to strengthen the protection of the school environment for children, the Taichung City Environmental Protection Bureau expanded the subsidy for the construction of a clean air green wall on the campus, and the current subsidy amount to 1.76 million yuan, with an area of 358 square meters.
The Environmental Protection Bureau stressed that currently selected plants that can purify the air and do not need to spend too much money and time to maintain include the Dragon Tubeh, the Junzi and Wu Bamboo, the Turtle, the Cannonflower or the Honeysuckle.
How good is the effect of clean air green wall?
According to international research, vertical clean air green walls can reduce the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM10) by about 40% and 60%. In addition, green walls can also reduce the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in classrooms by about 10% and the concentration of ozone (O3) by about 30%.
Green wall is the most natural and energy efficient air purification facilities, no need to plug in electricity, self-circulation, to achieve the purpose of air purification, can be called the "most environmentally friendly air purifier".
Chen Hongyi, director of the Environmental Protection Bureau, said that in addition to blocking outdoor pollutants and improving indoor air, the air green wall can also adjust the temperature and drive energy conservation and carbon reduction. Next year, Taichung City is expected to expand the subsidy target, including community activity centers, public kindergartens and environmental night markets.
# Green Wall # Air # Cleanliness # Campus # Environment

They are an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option.

Indoor green walls have air purification benefits and can reduce stress and anxiety, positively impacting mental health.

Title:

Content: Landscaping is the main element of a healthy and comfortable environment, which has a positive impact on both the psychological and physical condition of a person.
People perceive rooms filled with living plants as safer and more aesthetic for life and work.
Even with visual contact with nature, the level of stress is significantly reduced.
According to recent studies, gardening can affect not only air quality and our health, but also energize, improve performance and serve as a source of inspiration.
Inspiration
A sense of security
Image of Well-Being
Air quality
Change together
with us
In the face of constant global changes, human needs and desires also change.
There is a rethinking of fundamental principles and values - we become more attentive to ourselves, flexible and mobile, open to new opportunities and ideas.
These same trends are reflected in the transformation of the premises – in the desire to create a truly comfortable and attractive space.
The interior becomes adaptive for various tasks and interaction formats.
And plants have become an integral part of any progressive concept.

Green walls can improve mood, overall well-being, and create a sense of security.

Certain plants, like Lily bamboo and Hydrangea, are suitable for green walls and can help purify the air.

Title:

Content: Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi County, Chiayi
The school received an environmental subsidy of NT $220,000 two years ago to plant large Dumbo flowers to form a green wall, which helps to cool down the temperature and purify the air, and also to install an automatic sprinkler system to maintain the ecology of the green wall.
According to the Environmental Protection Bureau of Chiayi City Government, since 2019, the Environmental Protection Department has promoted the vertical air green wall project. Since 2019, three schools, including Xingjia, Jiabei Elementary School and Jiabei Elementary School, have installed climbing plants on the school's daughter wall and the balcony of the classroom.
The Environmental Protection Bureau of the Chiayi Municipal Government said that this year, the Environmental Protection Agency expanded the target of subsidies, in addition to the original subsidies of public middle school, public elementary school, public preschool institutions, public welfare groups, public facilities, environmental protection night market, civic activity center and other venues, air green wall subsidies of 3,000 to 6,000 yuan per square meter, single subsidy ceiling of 400,000 yuan.
According to the Municipal Environmental Protection Agency, according to the results of the study, vertical green walls can reduce the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), suspended particulates (PM10) by about 40% and 60%, but also reduce the concentration of indoor fine suspended particulates (PM2.5) by about 10%, ozone by about 30%, and indoor temperature reduction by about 1.8 ℃.
According to the city's Environmental Protection Bureau, the appropriate plant types are lily bamboo, firecracker red, Yunnan yellow carnation, turtle, Boston kidney fern, hydrangea, African pansy or panthera, and can be selected according to the space planning and installation requirements, so that the space is more beautiful.
# Green Wall # Cooling # EPB # EPD # Planting

Indoor green walls can reduce indoor temperature by 1.8 ℃.

Indoor green walls significantly improve air quality, with some plants removing pollutants within 8 hours.

Title:

Content: HealthOther News

Plants that clean the air in the house within 8 hours

SHAFAQNA SCIENCE- Scientists at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in Australia, who investigated whether a vertical wall system fitted with indoor plants could mop up a mix of harmful compounds found in petrol vapors.

“Not only can plants remove the majority of pollutants from the air in a matter of hours,” says UTS environmental scientists, “they remove the most harmful petrol-related pollutants from the air most efficiently.”

They tested the Ambius vertical plant wall system using nine purpose-built perspex boxes containing four plants or none at all. A small volume of petrol was vaporized inside the chambers, and researchers measured the gas levels.

Source: sciencealert

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Indoor green walls can benefit mental health by providing a calming environment.

Looking at nature improves mental health and well-being, reducing anxiety and improving mood.

Title:

Content: Published 13 June 2024, 21: 49
1 min.
Scientists have found a new method to improve mental health
It's all about nature.
A recent study found that even simply looking at natural elements while in a city can improve well-being and mental health.
© Ferra.ru
A publication in the journal People and Nature revealed how focusing attention on green elements, such as trees, versus gray ones, such as buildings, affects participants ’ emotional state and anxiety levels.
The study used eye-tracking technology to accurately measure how much time participants spent looking at natural and urban elements while walking.
Participants who focused on green areas reported significant improvements in mood and reduced levels of anxiety, highlighting the importance of visual interaction with nature for maintaining mental health.
These results can help in planning urban spaces and developing health support methods based on the principles of biophilic design and visual stimulation of nature.

Gazing at indoor green walls can maintain mental health and reduce anxiety.

When choosing plants for indoor green walls, consider the climate and region, as some plants suit tropical or temperate climates better.

Title:

Content: A fixture of boutiquey hotels and upmarket restaurants, a succulent wall brings the natural world spectacularly indoors. The good news is that they’re not as difficult as they look to create for the home – and the results are always unique.

What you need

Frame; trowel; plants.

The expert

Karl Mok is a design expert and consultant who has been working in the design industry for more than six years. Karl focuses on making design accessible, working at the intersection of architecture, interiors and branding while drawing inspiration from travelling and natural materials.

Step-by-step guide

Step 1

First, you need to determine where you want to install your succulent wall. You need to make sure the location receives enough light for your plants to thrive. South-facing walls are ideal but any with adequate light will work.

Step 2

You can use a variety of frames, including picture frames, shadow boxes, or even a pallet. I recommend choosing one that fits your aesthetic and the size of the wall you want to cover. Charity shops or second-hand stores can be great places to find unique frames that will really make your wall stand out.

Step 3

Once you have your frame, add a backing to hold the soil and plants. I suggest a breathable material, such as landscape fabric and then chicken wire to prevent the soil from falling out. Cut the material to the size of the frame and attach it at the back using a stapler.

Step 4

You then need to fill the frame with soil, making sure it is moist but not soaking wet. You can use a succulent-specific soil mix, or even create your own using equal parts of sand, perlite and potting soil.

Step 5

Now choose your succulents. I suggest selecting a wide variety in different shapes and sizes so you can mix and match them to create a unique and visually appealing display. I always recommend choosing plants that have similar light and watering requirements to make caring for them easier.

Step 6

Using a small trowel or your fingers, create small holes in the soil and insert the succulent roots. Gently pack the soil around the plants to secure them in place before affixing them to your wall. When it comes to caring for your succulent wall, water it sparingly, as succulents don’t like to be over-watered. I recommend using a spray bottle or a small watering can with a narrow spout to avoid getting the leaves too wet.

Top tips

1. Stay dry. Pick an area that gets enough light but don’t forget you also need to accommodate potential water damage. I recommend keeping your succulent wall away from furniture, such as sofas or chairs, and don’t hang it above carpets, which can become soggy and start to smell. While it won’t be a torrential downpour each time you water, popping down a small absorbent mat or towel for a few hours after will protect your floors and furniture.

2. Invest in the best. Good quality soil will help ensure your plants get all the nutrients they need to thrive on their wall garden journey, so take the time to look for the right stuff and don’t skimp. However, I don’t recommend scouring your compost bin as, given the soil won’t be turned over once it’s on the wall, this could make things pongy, so opt for enrichment that can be dissolved in water and sprayed on instead.

3. Go green or go home. You want to make sure you pick only the best succulents for your wall, so look for those with strong stems and bright green leaves when selecting which ones will make it on to your wall display. This means they are healthy and more likely to withstand being, literally, turned on their side.

4. Mix it up. Mixing up the shapes and sizes of your planters can make your succulent wall more dramatic and really cement it as a piece of living art. I recommend using trailing varieties like donkey’s tail (sedum morganianum) on the edges of frames to break up any harsh lines, and bright red lipstick echeveria (echeveria agavoides) to add some bright pops of colour.

5. Layer it on thick. Hanging planters at different levels can make your succulent wall look more dynamic than just having them flat against one another in rows or columns. Use shadow boxes, thicker frames, or add extra wood to the back of certain frames to create a clearly defined platform.

6. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. Adding hanging decorations such as wind chimes, birdhouses or suncatchers can add more visual interest and an extra layer of dimension and texture.

7. Spray it again. Water your wall only when necessary but don’t let things dry up either. If you’re savvy at DIY you could always install discreet self-watering pots so that everything stays nice and moist without needing constant attention from yourself. Otherwise, a light spray every couple of weeks will suffice but always keep a close eye and top up more if needed.

8. Pest project. Inspect your wall closely every few weeks, looking around stem joints where insects tend to hide so you can get rid of them before they spread. You should also watch out for signs of disease such as discolouration or wilting leaves, which might indicate root rot issues caused by over-watering, or burning from being too exposed to the sun.

9. Cut backs. The great thing about succulent walls is that, as they grow, your living art piece will evolve and get better – but to keep it looking its best, make sure to give it a trim once in a while. This includes removing dead leaves, thinning out any overgrown areas or replacing succulents that are struggling.

And finally… ENJOY! Don’t forget why you started this project in the first place. Make sure to spend time enjoying your little piece of nature, you deserve it.

Five common mistakes

1. Not researching beforehand. Make sure you are committed to this project, as well as the upkeep required, before jumping in. If you’re not sure, try looking after a small handful of succulents before committing to a whole wall.

2. Overwatering. Too much water can lead to root rot.

3. Not making it secure. It might seem simple but too often people underestimate how many fixtures or fittings they may need, leading to a pile of plants and dirt falling down on an unexpected visitor.

4. Over-planting. While you want to make a visual impact, cramming too many succulents in your frames can undermine their growth – and even make them more prone to rot.

5. Ugly planting. Don’t get stuck with a variety that makes you cringe. Living stones (lithops dorotheae), for instance, make people think of brains. Not so bad when the plant is small, but it can look unnerving the larger it gets.

Karl Mok is founder of Friends Studio, friendsstudio.co

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Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Green walls can reduce indoor PM2.5 by 10% and ozone by 30%, improving air quality.

Indoor green walls cost $200 to $1200 per square meter and can last up to 25 years.

Title:

Content: Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd Now Provides Singapore Properties with Vertical Green Walls

Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd is famous for its vertical wall planters, green walls and flower backdrop in Singapore. The company caters to residential and commercial clients as well.

Singapore, 2023-Jan-04 — /EPR Network/ — Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd, the leading landscaping company in Singapore is offering vertical green walls to commercial and residential properties. Whether it is a retail showroom or a high rise, the vertical green wall is an innovative approach towards introducing nature amidst the concrete jungle.

The company uses quality vertical wall planters, ensuring the healthy growth of the plants. These vertical walls are easy to maintain, assemble, install, disassemble, and reinstall. The technique used by Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd ensures the user does not have to spend much time tending and taking care of the plants.

Along with green walls, the company also provides clients with exquisite flower backdrops in Singapore to complement the greenery around them. It’s a long-term investment as a green wall can last up to 25 years.

Vertical walls by Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd come with some unique features:

  • Custom design to suit the client’s needs.
  • Minimal watering of the green wall plants.
  • Ultra-low maintenance ensured.
  • Quick installation due to a modular system.
  • Use of plants that can survive in a tropical climate.

Why choose a vertical green wall?

  • Reduces waste of energy.
  • Improves air quality.
  • Makes the structure sustainable.
  • The space becomes more fire-resistant.
  • Minimizes ambient noise.

The general installation cost for a vertical green wall by Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd ranges between $200 per square meter and $1200 per square meter, depending on the design, the kind of plants used and the installation process.

About the company:

One of the oldest nurseries in Singapore, Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd has 50 years of experience in the industry. Started out humbly as a flower shop, Prince’s Landscape Pte Ltd have evolved into a full-fledged landscape design and installation specialist.

Contact Details

Telephone: 65 6763 7000

Fax: 65 6892 2700

WhatsApp: +65 8838 3479

Email: buzz@prince.com.sg

Address: 53 Sungei Tengah Road, Singapore 698998

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Indoor green walls are a valuable investment, providing benefits for air quality, mental health, and energy efficiency.

Eco properties have higher market values and promote healthier living.

Title:

Content: Home Business Green Horizons: The Future of Eco Investing in Property

Green Horizons: The Future of Eco Investing in Property

by Biljana Denic

When examining the evolution of real estate investments, a noticeable and dynamic shift towards eco-friendly properties becomes apparent. This shift is not simply a passing trend but rather a substantial transformation rooted in mounting environmental concerns. The demand for properties that have minimal carbon footprints serves as the driving force behind this change.

The interest in energy-efficient homes has never been higher, as an increasing number of investors recognize the profitability and sustainability of green homes. This article delves into the concept of eco-investing, discussing its profitability and highlighting future trends driving this revolution in the real estate market.

1. What is Eco Investing in Property?

Source: luxurylifestylemag.co.uk

In the realm of property investment, there exists a specialized field known as eco investing or green investing. This niche focuses on acquiring and developing properties that adhere to environmentally-friendly standards and sustainable practices. These types of properties, commonly referred to as eco properties or green homes, are meticulously designed to minimize their impact on the environment by prioritizing energy efficiency and employing sustainable design principles.

The components of an eco-friendly property investment include:

  • Green construction practices focus on using sustainable building materials and adopting practices that minimize waste and energy consumption.
  • Energy Efficiency: Eco properties are designed to be energy-efficient by incorporating systems such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and insulation. These features help to lower overall energy consumption.
  • Properties that meet green building standards often obtain green certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) to demonstrate their environmentally friendly practices.

2. Why Eco Investing Matters in the Real Estate Market

Environmental Benefits

Investing in eco-friendly properties is a way for investors to make a positive impact on the environment. By choosing to invest in these types of properties, investors are actively working towards reducing carbon footprints and conserving natural resources. Eco properties utilize renewable energy sources, implement waste recycling systems, and prioritize energy efficiency for heating and cooling purposes. These sustainable practices help mitigate environmental degradation and contribute

Economic Benefits

Properties that prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability often have higher market values. In addition, property owners can take advantage of tax incentives provided by government policies on green building and save on utility costs thanks to energy-efficient systems.

Social Benefits

Eco properties contribute to healthier living environments by enhancing air and water quality while reducing noise pollution. These properties typically incorporate green spaces that promote community interaction and overall well-being.

3. Key Trends in Eco Property Investment

Source: nickiandkaren.com

  • Embracing sustainable construction practices is becoming increasingly popular in the realm of eco property investment. One key aspect of these practices lies in utilizing recycled and eco-friendly building materials, which not only help reduce the environmental impact of construction but also enhance the energy efficiency of the property.
  • Energy-Efficient Systems: Eco properties are increasingly incorporating smart home technologies and energy-efficient systems. These innovative solutions, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, help lower energy consumption and utility expenses.
  • Including green spaces and natural elements in property, design has several benefits. It improves air quality, helps to reduce heat, and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the property.

4. Where is Eco Investing in Property Headed?

The future of eco-investing in property markets holds great promise due to advances in green technology, supportive government policies, and shifting consumer demands.

Advances in Green Technology

The eco property market is on the verge of a revolutionary transformation, thanks to technological advances that are paving the way for more efficient and affordable green solutions. These innovations encompass advanced solar panels, highly effective insulation materials, and smart home technologies that automate energy-saving practices.

Role of Government Policies

Government policies have a crucial impact on promoting eco property investment through green building practices. These policies provide incentives and grants to encourage property developers and owners to adopt environmentally-friendly approaches.

Shifts in Consumer Demand

As the awareness of climate change continues to grow, there is a noticeable shift among consumers towards eco-friendly properties. This change in demand is anticipated to drive significant growth in the eco property market moving forward.

5. Tips for Investors Venturing into Eco Property Markets

Source: bricksandagent.com

  • Learn about Eco Certifications: Take the time to become familiar with different green certifications and what they entail. These certifications can provide validation for the eco-friendly practices of your property, ultimately boosting its market value.
  • Get Expert Advice: Consult with professionals who specialize in sustainable architecture and design. Their expertise can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you make informed decisions and maximize the sustainability of your property.
  • Think about the long-term advantages: Although eco-friendly properties may require a larger upfront investment, they offer significant benefits in the long run. These include energy savings and a higher resale value, making them a financially rewarding investment.

Conclusion: Embracing a Sustainable Investment Future

Investing in eco-friendly properties signals a meaningful transition toward a sustainable and environmentally-conscious future. As investors, we have the chance to drive this change by supporting properties that prioritize environmental preservation. By doing so, we not only stand to gain substantial financial returns but also the invaluable reward of a healthier planet for generations to come.

Investing in eco-friendly initiatives goes beyond being a passing trend; it signifies a significant move towards creating a sustainable future. By adopting this investment strategy, we actively contribute to combating climate change and progressing towards a cleaner, greener, and more environmentally sound world.

Sustainable construction reduces environmental impact and costs while increasing property values.

Title:

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The Future Of Construction: Why Sustainability Is A Hot Topic

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The construction industry is at a crossroads, and it urgently needs to shift towards more sustainable practices. As one of the largest consumers of global resources and a significant contributor to environmental degradation, the industry faces an imperative to evolve.

This change is driven by an increasing awareness of environmental issues and stringent regulatory demands and shifting consumer expectations, which are steering the sector toward sustainability.

The Urgency of Sustainable Construction

Global Environmental Impact

The construction sector plays a pivotal role in the stewardship of our planet's resources and health. It is responsible for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions and a similar proportion of energy usage.

The extraction, processing, and use of building materials substantially strain natural resources, leading to significant ecological footprints. As urbanization continues to rise, so does the impact of construction, making it crucial for the industry to adopt more sustainable and less harmful practices.

Regulatory and Consumer Pressure

Governments worldwide are tightening regulations to curb the environmental impact of construction by setting carbon reduction targets and stricter compliance standards.

In the US, the construction industry is responsible for significant pollution. According to a study conducted by Willmot Dixon, construction companies cause nearly a quarter of air pollution, 40% of drinking water pollution, and half of all landfill waste.

Concurrently, a more informed consumer base is demanding greener, more sustainable buildings.

These twin pressures are compelling the construction industry to innovate and transform, aligning their practices with sustainability principles to remain viable and competitive in a rapidly changing world.

The Benefits of Sustainable Construction

Environmental Benefits

Embracing sustainable construction methods significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with building projects. From using energy-efficient materials to adopting renewable energy sources, the industry can diminish its direct environmental impacts.

Moreover, sustainable construction practices promote the conservation of scarce natural resources and aim to reduce waste generation through recycling and reuse, further mitigating the ecological impacts of construction activities.

Economic Benefits

Sustainability is not only environmentally advantageous but also economically beneficial. Buildings designed and built with sustainability in mind typically incur lower energy costs, reducing long-term operational expenses.

These buildings often attract higher property values and retain their marketability over time. Additionally, adherence to environmental regulations through sustainable practices can lead to eligibility for government incentives and help avoid costly fines and legal issues related to non-compliance.

Social Benefits

Sustainable buildings contribute significantly to the health and productivity of their occupants. Features like improved indoor air quality, natural lighting, and better acoustic environments are crucial in enhancing occupant well-being.

Furthermore, companies that invest in sustainable building practices tend to see improved community relations and can better achieve their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals due to their reduced environmental impact and commitment to societal well-being.

Technological Innovations Driving Sustainability

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

BIM technology plays a pivotal role in the sustainability of construction projects. By creating digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of places, BIM allows for more accurate planning and efficient resource management, reducing the likelihood of waste and enabling more sustainable decision-making throughout construction.

Green Building Certifications

Certifications like LEED and BREEAM are instrumental in promoting sustainability standards. These programs provide frameworks that help architects, developers, and builders implement sustainable building practices and verify that a project meets high standards of environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.

Smart Technologies

The deployment of AI and IoT technologies is transforming the construction industry by optimizing resource use and improving building operations.

These technologies enable real-time monitoring and control of energy consumption and enhance water usage efficiency. This seeks to improve overall building maintenance, leading to more intelligent, more sustainable buildings.

Challenges to Sustainable Construction

The perception that sustainable construction is prohibitively expensive persists, primarily due to the higher upfront costs associated with green materials and technologies.

However, these costs are typically offset by the significant energy, water, and maintenance savings over the building's lifecycle.

Skill Gaps and Training Needs

There remains a critical need for skilled professionals trained in sustainable construction practices.

Educational programs and certifications in green building techniques are essential to equip the current and future workforce with the necessary skills to drive the industry's transition to sustainability.

Regulatory Hurdles

The construction industry often faces challenges with the variability and rapid evolution of regulations about sustainability.

Staying compliant requires constant vigilance and adaptability, which can significantly burden firms.

Why Sustainability Pays Off

Sustainable buildings are generally cheaper to operate. As mentioned above, using less energy and water and requiring less maintenance than traditional buildings.

Adhering to sustainability practices helps firms comply with regulations and reduce the risk of fines and legal issues. It also mitigates the risk associated with resource scarcity and future-proof buildings against changes in environmental policies.

As demand for green buildings grows among consumers and investors, firms that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability can enhance their market position and enjoy a competitive edge.

Looking Beyond

The construction industry's shift towards sustainability is not just a trend but a fundamental change in how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated.

Stakeholders across the industry are called to recognize this shift's importance and invest in sustainable practices that will shape the future of construction.

This article underscores the imperative for sustainable practices in the construction industry, highlighting the challenges and immense benefits of these practices. It serves as a call to action for all industry stakeholders to commit to sustainability for the betterment of our environment and future generations.

If you want assistance creating a more sustainable environment for your business, connect with me on LinkedIn.

Follow me on Twitter or LinkedInCheck out my website

Interacting with nature and having green views from home improves mental health and reduces negative emotions.

Title:

Content: University of Tokyo and Water House Launch Joint Research on Biodiversity and Health
World ’ s first study on the relationship between biodiversity-rich landscaping and health / well-being
Application of Sekisui House ’ s Gohon no Ki concept to detached homes (Photo: Business Wire)
OSAKA, Japan -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences (GSALS) of the University of Tokyo and Sekisui House, Ltd. will launch a joint research project on biodiversity and human health on December 1, 2022.
The project will investigate the benefits of biodiversity and the urban natural environment for human health and well-being.
This world-first initiative will comprehensively investigate the impact of residents ’ interactions with the nearby biodiversity-rich garden environment on residents ’ health and their attitudes and behaviour towards nature.
The Conservation Ecology Laboratory, part of the GSALS Ecosystem Research Department at the University of Tokyo, is engaged in research on urban biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services management (the benefits of ecosystems for human society).
Since 2016, the lab has been studying the relationship between nature and human health, and its research shows that interactions with nature can improve human health and well-being.
However, the question of how these health benefits vary according to nature's quality rather than quantity has not been explored.
There are two ways to interact with nature, one is the frequency of experiencing the green environment first hand and the other is viewing the green plants from the window of your home. In 2020, the Conservation Ecology Laboratory of GSALS at the University of Tokyo investigated the impact of these two types of interactions on the mental health of urban residents (self-esteem, life satisfaction, happiness, depression / anxiety symptoms and loneliness).
The results of the study showed that people who often go out to experience green nature and those who live in houses with green views both reported better mental health status.2 This suggests that people can enjoy the psychological benefits of nature in their own homes, even if they are not physically exposed to the natural environment.
In the accompanying chart, the size of the positive (right side of the dotted line) and negative (left side of the dotted line) effects indicates that each factor has a positive or negative relationship to each mental health measure.
For example, “green vision ” was associated with low levels of depression and anxiety symptoms, while“ the impact of COVID-19 on income ” was associated with high levels of depression and anxiety symptoms.
Analysis of the results showed that the effect of experiencing nature on mental health was the same as that of traditional factors such as income.
The Gohon no Ki project is a proposal to create gardens and communities using local tree species.
Since 2001, the project has been used to create green networks in urban neighbourhoods to protect biodiversity.
A joint study conducted since 2019 by Seizaki House and Kubota Laboratory of Ryukyu University and Think Nature Inc. shows that planting native garden trees in line with the Gohon no Ki project improves biodiversity in urban areas (Japan ’ s three largest metropolitan areas) where there is a significant decline in biodiversity.
This new joint research project will combine analytical methods developed by the GSALS Conservation Ecology Laboratory at the University of Tokyo with the Gohon no Ki Project for Aquatic Houses for biodiversity conservation, the first attempt to scientifically investigate the impact of biodiversity garden greening on human health and well-being worldwide.
The study also aims to demonstrate the importance of creating biodiversity-rich gardens compared to simple “green plantations ” from a biodiversity perspective.
The Conservation Ecology Laboratory of the GSALS at the University of Tokyo tested five hypotheses on the relationship between human health and natural interactions on the topics of mental health, physical health, cognitive function, and community health.
For now, the new joint research project will focus on two hypotheses related to mental health, as well as one related to cognitive function.
However, this is a long-term joint research project that will also examine community health and other health-related topics.
Hypothesis
Themes
Hypothesis
Mental health
1
People who interact with nature in the garden have fewer negative emotions (depression, anxiety symptoms, stress, etc.) and more positive emotions (quality of life, happiness, etc.).
2
People who can see nature through the window are in better mental health.
Cognitive function
3
Interacting with nature in the garden can improve cognitive function.
Community Health
4
Interacting with nature in the garden contributes to the health of the community.
Good health.
5
Exercising in the natural environment has more health benefits than exercising indoors.
Masashi Soga, associate professor at the University of Tokyo Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, commented on the joint research project as follows.
“People always look to nature for relaxation and tranquillity, and recent research and technological advances have made it possible to quantify this intangible health benefit. ”
However, little is known about the role that biodiversity plays in providing these health benefits.
If we can articulate this theme, we may be able to develop the kind of landscape and green space management that supports coexistence with nature, because it is desirable from the point of view of protecting biodiversity and improving human health.
This joint research project is a large-scale survey of the effects of interacting with nature in the garden on our health and well-being.
Gardens are perhaps the nature most familiar to most of us, and their biodiversity is an area that has hitherto been difficult to study, but data on the planting of standing water houses across the country will help us investigate for the first time the relationship between garden biodiversity and human health and the way people appreciate nature and interact with it.
So far, discussions about nature ’ s health benefits have tended to focus on relatively large areas of greenery, such as green spaces and forests, but with this new study, we hope to shed light on the importance of truly ‘ living with nature ’.
Our research will hopefully help promote the conservation of urban biodiversity, "he said.
The University of Tokyo ’ s GSALS and Water Houses study how interactions with nearby nature in urban environments affect people ’ s mental health and the way they appreciate and interact with nature, with the aim of contributing to the conservation of urban biodiversity and the creation of nature-positive societies by sharing these findings.
Annotation
1.
Soga Laboratory, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo: https: / / www.masashi-soga.com /
2.
A room with green views: The importance of the natural environment for mental health in the vicinity during the COVID-19 pandemic: https: / / esajjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com / doi / 10.1002 / eap.2248
3.
Sekisui House Biodiversity Conservation Initiative: https: / / www.sekisuihouse.co.jp / gohon _ sp /
4.
Sekisui House: https: / / www.sekisuihouse.co.jp / gohon _ sp / method /
Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo
The Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences of the University of Tokyo offers a step-by-step and systematic applied science education in the field of agriculture.
The Graduate School aims to develop, through educational and research activities, talents with insight, practical ability and leadership qualities that enable them to meet the needs of the global community through social, cultural and industrial activities.
Gohon no Ki project for standing water houses
The Gohon no Ki project is based on the concept of planting five native trees (three for birds and two for butterflies) and is modeled on the traditional Japanese Riyama landscape, proposing native tree species suitable for the local climate and beneficial to birds, butterflies and other local animals. Green gardens and local communities.
Since the launch of the Gohon no Ki project in 2001, the number of trees planted in standing water houses has reached 18.1 million (as of January 2022), of which 1.01 million were planted in FY2021.
Since 2019, the company has been working with Kubota Laboratory of Ryukyu University and Think Nature Co., Ltd. to quantitatively assess the contribution of networked greening to urban biodiversity. In 2021, the company developed the world ’ s first mechanism to quantitatively assess urban biodiversity using tree numbers, species, location data and ecosystem big data to determine the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation and publish it as a “Nature for Good Method ”.
Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo
1.
Soga et al. (2017) Gardening is beneficial for health: a meta-analysis.
Preventive Medicine Reports, 5, 92-99. (Soga et al. (2017) Horticulture benefits for health: a meta-analysis.
Preventive Medicine Report, 5, 92-99.)
Website: https: / / www.sciencedirect.com / science / article / pii / S2211335516301401
Overview: A meta-analysis (a statistical analysis that combines the results of multiple scientific studies and analyses whether a factor is relevant to a particular problem) confirms that horticulture and plant interactions have a positive impact on human health
2.
Soga, Gaston (2016) Extinction of experience: the loss of human - nature interactions.
Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 14, 94-101. (Soga, Gaston. (2016) Extinction of Experience: The Loss of Human Interaction with Nature.
Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, 14, 94-101.)
Website: https: / / esajjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com / doi / full / 10.1002 / fee.1225
Summary: A study suggests that in many developed countries, human interaction with nature is declining, and that this “disappearance of experience ” could have serious negative consequences for human health and the protection of ecosystems.
3.
Soga et al. (2020) How can we mitigate against increasing biophobia among children during the extinction of experience?
Biological Conservation, 242, 108420.
(Soga et al. (2020) How can we alleviate children ’ s growing biophobia in the process of experiencing disappearance? Bio Preservation, 242, 108420.)
Website: https: / / www.sciencedirect.com / science / article / pii / S0006320719309577
Summary: A study shows that people who do not interact with nature regularly are more likely to have negative reactions (fear, aversion) to common insects and other invertebrates.
Disclaimer: The original version of this announcement is the official authorized version. The translation is for convenience only. Please refer to the original version, the original version is the only version with legal effect.
Contacts
TSUKI HOUSE CO., LTD.
sekisuihouse-pr @ actioinc.jp
+ 81-3-5771-6426
Contacts
TSUKI HOUSE CO., LTD.
sekisuihouse-pr @ actioinc.jp
+ 81-3-5771-6426

Gardening and conserving local tree species in urban areas improves human health and biodiversity.

Green spaces and outdoor activities reduce depression and anxiety, and improve cognitive function.