This meta-analysis synthesizes published empirical findings to explore how exposure to
nature in the workplace affect employee outcomes. Specifically, it examines the
influence of nature exposure on three core areas: employee productivity (including task
performance and overall output), psychological well-being (encompassing stress levels,
burnout, mood states, and mental health), and organizational attitudes (such as job
satisfaction, engagement, motivation, organizational commitment, and intent to stay or
leave). In addition to these areas, the study also incorporates outcomes related to
cognitive functioning—including creativity, adaptability, innovation, and critical
thinking—as well as emotional responses.
Drawing on Attention Restoration Theory, the Biophilia Hypothesis, and identity-based
motivation theory, we explore the mechanisms and boundary conditions that explain
when and for whom nature exposure benefits workplace functioning. Accordingly, we
will explore the moderating effects of sociodemographic variables, types of nature
exposure, exposure time, immersion degree, type of outcome, measurement approach
(self-report vs. other-report), type of work, among others.
In accordance with relevant literature on the matter, we classify nature exposure using
the following framework: (a) outdoor breaks during the workday, (b) natural elements
incorporated into indoor spaces, (c) exposure through physical barriers (e.g., windows),
and (d) symbolic representations of nature (e.g., pictures, artificial plants).
Following PRISMA guidelines, we will include peer-reviewed empirical studies with
indoor-working adult samples, covering just experimental. Outcomes are evaluated
using a multi-level meta-analytic model to allow introducing several measures coming
from the same sample, as well as ensuring g robustness and generalizability, with effect
sizes calculated using Hedges's g and moderators explored to identify meaningful
patterns.
This study advances prior meta-analyses by integrating restoration, biophilia, and
motivational identity perspectives. Findings will offer theoretical contributions on
nature's role in workplace well-being and practical guidance for designing healthier,
more productive organizational environments contributing to the growing body of
evidence on the benefits of integrating natureintothemodernworkplace.