Last updated: 15 July 2026

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) encompasses health and comfort issues directly linked to the time spent inside a building. Living green walls offer a striking visual enhancement to office interiors while boosting indoor humidity levels - contributing to a more comfortable, welcoming, and high-performing workplace.

What is Sick Building Syndrome?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) as situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort issues that appear linked to time spent in a specific facility. In most cases, no specific illness or single root cause can be isolated.

Symptoms typically subside shortly after leaving the premises. Common issues associated with a compromised indoor climate include:

  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Concentration difficulties
  • Skin irritation and itching
  • Throat irritation

A sub-optimal internal environment directly damages workplace comfort, team morale, and the overall employee experience.

De geschiedenis van SBS en een slechte luchtkwaliteit

The history and root causes of poor indoor air quality

During the early 20th century, ventilation standards primarily focused on eliminating body odors. However, following the 1973 oil embargo, energy conservation regulations tightened dramatically. Ventilation mandates were slashed to just 0.15 cubic meters per minute per person, causing indoor air quality across commercial real estate to drop sharply. While modern standards have since improved, many office buildings continue to suffer from compromised indoor environments.

Research by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) pinpoints the primary causes of indoor air quality issues:

  • Inadequate ventilation (52% of cases): Inefficient HVAC systems failing to distribute air effectively throughout the building.

  • Indoor chemical contaminants (16% of cases): Off-gassing from office equipment, adhesives, carpet backing, and engineered wood products containing volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde.

  • Outdoor chemical contaminants (10% of cases): Vehicle exhaust and plumbing vent emissions drawn inward through poorly located air intake vents.

  • Biological contaminants (5% of cases): Bacteria, mold, and viruses multiplying in stagnant water within insulation, ceiling tiles, or HVAC drip pans.
     

Expert Insights: vertical planting systems

"In our daily practice, we frequently observe indoor air quality deteriorating unnoticeably due to modern office technology and insufficient fresh air exchange. Our specialist teams see firsthand how a living green wall transforms a sterile environment into a tranquil, inviting space, supporting the overall spatial experience."

How green walls elevate your office design

Integrating living green walls into your facility delivers distinct operational and aesthetic benefits:

  • Enhanced spatial atmosphere: Vertical planting introduces texture and variation while naturally increasing indoor humidity.
  • Acoustic management & comfort: Green walls effectively absorb ambient noise, lowering reverberation in high-traffic zones.
  • Elevated workplace experience: Visual connection to nature fosters a calm working environment and improves daily comfort for employees and visitors.