Using Sustainability to Improve Your Health.
The word sustainability has recently been more focused on environmentalism, however sustainability or ‘being sustainable’ is something that can be maintained indefinitely. The most frequently quoted definition is that “Sustainable development [meets] the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
With the current change in work dynamics during the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK has seen up to 46% of people in employment working from home (WFH) since the first lockdown. The ONS reported that of these 46.6%, 86% had to WFH due to the coronavirus pandemic.
When looking at the effects that working from home has had on sustainability, environmental benefits are a key topic. However, with the second and third UK lockdowns taking place in the colder, darker months, we have seen a drastic increase in more people experiencing Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD), which, in turn, can also have effects on sustainable actions and awareness.
A Study on natural light was conducted by Pacific Gas and Electric. The utility provider set out to see how natural light affected sales. Using Walmart as a guinea pig, PG&E studied stores that had identical layouts, geographic areas, etc. However, the only difference was that some stores had skylights, and some didn’t. The overall outcome of the study concluded that sales in stores with skylights allowing for more natural light were 40% higher than stores with more fluorescent lighting.
The increase we’ve seen of people working from home has had both positive and negative effects on people’s daily lives and routines. However, incorporating sustainability when you’re focussing on your health can complement each other, quite well actually!
Smelling Sustainable Success
According to the founder of Neom Organics, when working from home smells can boost our mood and help with productivity. However, some candles can contribute to indoor air pollution. Further information on organic candles can be found on The Green Home Guide
Improving your carbon footprint doesn’t just improve the impact you have on the environment, but also has positive impacts on your health, both physically and mentally. Sustainable health is your commitment to taking responsibility for your own health, whether this is regular exercise or watching what foods you.
Get in touch to find out how NHS Sustainability Partnerships are tackling health and sustainability together.