Sedentary desk work is making us sick - nature is the cure.
A recent Guardian article highlighted a concerning trend: our life-expectancy has risen but we’re not living healthier lives. Instead, we’re a sick nation living longer in poor health. Long-term sickness is the main reason why economic inactivity in the UK rose to a record 9.4 million in February 2024, costing the economy £43bn a year.
These unprecedented levels of sickness are undoubtedly the result of a complex array of factors, but modern workplaces definitely have a role to play in this phenomenon. During the Industrial Revolution, unsafe conditions led to frequent accidents and respiratory issues from poor air quality. Coal miners developed black lung disease from inhaling coal dust, resulting in chronic respiratory problems and premature death. Manual workers often suffered from chronic back pain until proper lifting techniques were introduced.
It’s clear when we look at the past that intervention was needed to safeguard us from the negative effects of these workplaces, but the same is true of modern working conditions.
With the rise of sedentary desk work, we face new health challenges, such as eye strain, physical inactivity, loneliness, and disconnection from the outdoors and, as a result, nature.
Consider these statistics:
The average office worker spends approximately 6.5 hours a day in front of a computer screen, in addition to any screen time outside the office. (Source: Acuvue)
64% of Brits spend at least six hours each day sitting, significantly increasing risk of an early death. (Source UK Active)
40% of Brits Spend Just 15 Minutes Outdoors Each Day (Ambius UK)
51% of office workers spend less than 30 minutes outside during their working day, and 10% said they never go outside at all during the workday. (Source: Clear Channel)
76% of office workers eat lunch at their desk (source: Opinium Research).
According to a study by UK Active, 20% of Brits cited being too busy at work as the biggest barrier to being more active. But work doesn’t have to be the problem. In fact, it’s an essential part of the solution!
To counteract the health hazards of the modern workplace, we need to adopt innovative strategies that incorporate movement, connection, and nature into the daily routine of employees. Here are some effective ways to achieve this:
Outdoor Walking Meetings
Walking meetings not only promote physical activity but also foster creativity and collaboration. They can be a great way to discuss ideas and solve problems while enjoying the benefits of being outdoors and getting some fresh air. Policies need to be implemented to help enable employees to seize this opportunity, such as creating clear guidelines of when walking meetings can and should be used, sharing nearby pleasant and quiet walking routes, and practical gear such as internet dongles or umbrellas.
Flexible Working Hours
Allowing flexible working hours can enable employees to incorporate physical activities like lunchtime walks or cycling into their daily routines. Flexibility can help employees manage their work-life balance better and reduce the sedentary time that contributes to so many health issues.
Office Gardens and Green Spaces
Creating office gardens or green spaces can provide employees with a peaceful environment to relax and recharge. Access to nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall wellbeing. Encouraging employees to spend breaks in these green spaces can make a significant difference in their mental and physical health. Office gardens can create stronger team bonds, encourage physical activity, and spark an interest in cooking with fresh garden ingredients.
Regular Team Outdoor Time
Companies like Finisterre and Rapha provide excellent examples of how innovative approaches can enhance employee wellbeing. Finisterre’s "Sea Tuesdays," where employees spend the morning in the sea before starting work, and Rapha’s "Wednesday Rides," where the team cycles together, are initiatives that not only promote physical activity but also strengthen team bonds and connect employees with nature.
Volunteering in Nature:
Many organisations now offer volunteering days off for employees. Volunteer days focused on environmental conservation can significantly enhance employees' connection to nature. Activities like tree planting, beach clean-ups, and maintaining local parks not only promote physical activity and team bonding but also instil a sense of purpose and environmental stewardship. These hands-on experiences can inspire employees to appreciate and protect the natural world, benefiting both their wellbeing and the community.
Addressing the health challenges posed by sedentary desk work is not just about preventing illness—it's about creating a vibrant, engaging, and productive work environment. By integrating nature into the workplace, companies can foster a healthier, happier, and more motivated workforce.
At Nula, we’re interested in working towards a future where our workplaces contribute towards our wellbeing rather than detract from it, and where our jobs connect us to nature rather than separate us from it. Sound good? Get in touch to learn more.
