The benefits of encouraging plant growth in an environment are many and varied. With density threatening urban environments, and space at a premium – real, buildable greening trellising solutions are required to unlock the green benefits we all know await.
Reducing Thermal Gain
During the summer months, plants act as sunshades shielding building facades from the harsh effects of the sun. In the winter months, they provide a further layer of insulation on the facade preventing heat loss. Vertical gardens help minimise the mechanical costs of cooling and heating, and aid in the reduction of the urban heat island effect in our cities.
Noise Reduction
Once fully grown, plants have the ability to insulate against noise and are particularly effective against low frequency noise.
Cooling Microclimates
In addition to helping reduce thermal heat gain by shading the facade, a plant’s ability to cool through evapotranspiration creates a microclimate that can be up to 1-2 degrees lower than the ambient temperature. This helps ease our reliance on air conditioning.
Improved Air Quality
Many species have the ability to act as natural air filters improving air quality. They are known to absorb formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and carbon monoxide from the immediate environment.
Aesthetic Benefits
Plants look great! When encouraged to grow on a facade they can soften the appearance of a building and help it blend into the natural environment of the area.
Health Benefits
The psychological benefits associated with the proximity to plant life are well known. Medically, a soothing environment brought about by the close proximity of plants has been shown to contribute towards a reduction in stress and, in some circumstances, a reduced dependence on medication and faster healing time.
Social and Economic Impacts
Although difficult to quantify, perhaps one of the most important benefits of greening is the effect the close proximity of plant life has on the users of an environment. Improved productivity, reduced stress and a decrease in absenteeism are all social/economic benefits made possible by greening a workplace and increasing employee engagement.