Nature-Based Solutions in Workplace Settings: A Scoping Review on Pathways for Integrated Quality, Environmental,...

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Environmental Psychology
• Sustainable Workplace Design

Background:

• Workplace environments present physical and psychological stressors impacting employee well-being and productivity.
• Biophilic design is recognized, yet Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) are underutilized in workplace management.
• Limited systematic integration of NbS into Quality, Environmental, Health, and Safety (QEHS) frameworks exists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the empirical impacts of NbS on occupational health, productivity, and environmental quality.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for integrating NbS into QEHS management systems.
• To inform strategies for enhancing workplace sustainability and resilience.

Main Methods:

• Scoping literature review following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Searched Scopus and Web of Science databases (2019-2024).
• Screened 2452 records, with 39 studies synthesized after critical appraisal.

Main Results:

• NbS reduce stress, improve physical/cognitive health, and boost workplace productivity.
• Observed benefits include decreased absenteeism, better indoor air quality, and financial returns.
• Challenges include high costs, maintenance, labor shortages, and methodological inconsistencies.

Conclusions:

• NbS integration into QEHS frameworks can foster healthier, resilient, and sustainable workplaces.
• Hybrid NbS (physical + virtual reality) and participatory co-design are key for success.
• Alignment with certifications and future research on longitudinal studies are recommended for scalability.