Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. As commercial buildings and developments in Australia strive to meet higher environmental standards, the demand for sustainable, green building practices has risen sharply. One of the key certifications driving this shift is Green Star, awarded by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). This certification recognises excellence in building design, construction, and operation, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

For businesses seeking to achieve Green Star certification, Ambius plant hire offers a unique and impactful solution. Indoor plants, green walls, and other plant-based designs contribute to Green Star points by improving indoor air quality, enhancing workplace wellbeing, and supporting sustainability goals. Ambius, with over 38 years of experience, provides plant hire solutions that help businesses meet these criteria while creating beautiful, healthy indoor environments.

In this article, we’ll explore how Ambius plant hire supports Green Star projects in Australia, and how our services contribute to a sustainable, healthy workplace for your business.

What is Green Star?

Green Star is Australia’s leading sustainability rating system for buildings and communities, developed by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). It assesses a range of factors that contribute to the environmental impact of a building, including energy efficiency, water usage, materials, and indoor environmental quality.

Buildings can achieve Green Star ratings in several categories, including:

  • Energy: Efficient use of energy and reducing carbon emissions.
  • Water: Managing water resources effectively and reducing waste.
  • Materials: Choosing sustainable, low-impact materials.
  • Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ): Promoting healthy indoor air quality, lighting, and acoustic comfort.

Indoor plant solutions, such as Ambius plant hire, play a crucial role in contributing to the Indoor Environmental Quality category, directly impacting Green Star points. By improving air quality, supporting natural elements, and contributing to a healthier indoor environment, plants are an integral part of sustainable building practices.

Ambius plant hire and Green Star projects

Ambius offers a range of plant hire services explicitly designed to support businesses working towards Green Star certification. Our plant solutions contribute to multiple Green Star credits in the following ways:

1. Improved indoor air quality

One of the most significant contributions plants can make to a Green Star project is the improvement of indoor air quality. Plants are natural air purifiers, absorbing harmful pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbon dioxide (CO2) and releasing oxygen. Ambius plant hire helps businesses create a healthier environment by introducing indoor plants into their spaces.

Research from Ambius and the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has shown that indoor plants can remove up to 97% of petrol-related VOCs in just 8 hours. This is particularly important in sealed office environments where pollutants from furniture, paint, printers, and equipment accumulate and degrade air quality.

By improving air quality, Ambius plants support the Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) credit in Green Star, helping your building meet the required standards for healthy indoor air.

2. Contribution to sustainability and CSR goals

Green Star projects are designed to promote environmental sustainability across all aspects of a building’s operation. Ambius plant hire services align with these sustainability goals by offering eco-friendly plant solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally beneficial.

Our sustainable plant hire solutions include:

  • VOC - free containers and recyclable solutions
     
  • ECO Pebbles: Our decorative pebble topping is made from 80% recycled materials, reducing waste and contributing to a circular economy.
     
  • Ambius best practice sub-irrigation system: This efficient watering solution reduces water waste and ensures plants receive the correct amount of moisture, further supporting sustainability.

Additionally, Ambius is proud to partner with Rainforest Rescue, contributing to the restoration of Australia’s Daintree Rainforest through reforestation efforts. This commitment to sustainability enhances your project’s environmental footprint, supporting the Green Star rating process.

3. Energy efficiency and thermal comfort

Incorporating plants into office spaces can help improve thermal comfort and improve energy efficiency. Plants help to regulate humidity levels, cooling the air and creating a more comfortable indoor environment. This can reduce the need for excessive air conditioning, especially in large open-plan offices or high-traffic areas.

Ambius plant hire solutions, such as green walls and large planter troughs, are particularly effective in regulating indoor climates. These benefits help businesses reduce their reliance on mechanical cooling systems, contributing to the Energy category of Green Star.

4. Enhancing employee well-being and productivity

Employee well-being is an essential aspect of Green Star certification. Plants have been proven to boost mood, reduce stress, and increase overall productivity. Ambius plant hire supports this by improving the overall office environment and creating a more enjoyable and engaging workspace.

Several studies have demonstrated that workplaces with greenery help reduce stress levels, enhance focus, and foster creativity. This not only benefits employees but also contributes to a positive workplace culture and enhances job satisfaction. By incorporating plants into your workspace, you can improve both employee well-being and productivity, which in turn supports your Green Star objectives.

5. Aesthetic and visual appeal

While functional benefits are essential, aesthetic value plays an important role in Green Star projects. A building that is both functional and visually appealing supports the well-being of its occupants and improves the overall experience for visitors and staff.

Ambius offers a range of plant hire solutions that can complement your building’s design while creating a calming and professional atmosphere. From sleek desktop plants to large green walls, our containers and plant displays are designed to fit seamlessly into any corporate interior. This enhances the visual appeal of your building, contributing to the overall quality of your workplace and supporting Green Star’s Materials and Design credits.

Ambius services for Green Star projects

Ambius doesn’t just offer plant hire; we provide a comprehensive service that includes expert advice, installation, and ongoing maintenance to ensure your plants continue to thrive. Our services include:

  • Plant hire: We supply a wide variety of plants, including tropical species that are specially suited for indoor environments.
     
  • Consultation and design: Our interior plantscape consultants work closely with your team to design plant solutions that align with your Green Star goals.
     
  • Ongoing maintenance: Our horticultural experts care for your plants through regular visits, including watering, pruning, pest control, and plant replacement.
     
  • Green wall solutions: We provide modular green walls and custom-built installations that are ideal for enhancing air quality and adding visual impact to your office space.

With our tailored approach, Ambius helps businesses meet Green Star requirements while creating healthier, more sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing workspaces.

Final thoughts

As Australia’s commitment to sustainability grows, so does the demand for buildings that meet Green Star certification. Ambius plant hire services offer businesses a unique opportunity to enhance indoor air quality, improve employee well-being, and achieve their sustainability goals. By integrating plants into your office space, you’re not only contributing to a greener planet but also creating a healthier, more productive environment for your employees.

If you’re working towards Green Star certification, Ambius is here to help. Our expert plant hire services are designed to support your environmental and sustainability objectives, while enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of your workplace.