Plants in the classroom: the research

Research in companies has shown that certain plants have a significant air-purifying effect. As the indoor climate improves as a result, people can work more effectively and with increased concentration. It makes people feel better too.

Do these plants have the same effect in primary schools? In 2010-2011, TNO and Fytagoras carried out research into the effects of the Air So Pure air-purifying plants at four schools.

Without plants in the classroom
Initially, in all 12 rooms at the schools in Leiden, Gouda and The Hague, the researchers examined the indoor climate and the concentration levels and learning performance of the children. This test lasted 10 weeks. The levels of CO2, humidity, temperature and air pollution were recorded continuously.

Testing the children
The concentration levels and learning performance of the children were also tested. They were also asked about their health.
After this initial research, it was possible to determine how many plants of each type should be placed in the classroom. The plant calculator was developed for this purpose.

With plants in the classroom
In the second part of the study, air-purifying plants were placed in 8 rooms and 4 rooms were left without plants. The same measurements were then taken over a period of 16 weeks. At the end of this period, the concentration levels and learning performance of the pupils were measured once again. Their health was also examined as before.

After the research
Once the research came to an end, the children from the schools in question visited the Westland area. After having been amazed by the hustle and bustle at the FloraHolland auction, the pupils visited a plant nursery where they learned all about growing plants.

The schools also received teaching materials explaining why plants are simply a must in the home, office and school.