One of the best ways to promote environmental sustainability is to incorporate natural elements into a building design. This makes the building more energy efficient, because it can purify air and perform other functions with vegetation, rather than machines that suck energy.
Bringing the outdoor elements inside has unparalleled benefits for individuals, especially when it comes to mental health. Introducing natural elements to a space is called biophilia, a hypothesis popularized by Edward O. Wilson in 1984 that claims humans have an inherent desire to connect with other forms of life, such as nature. Toyin-Ann Yerifor asserts that some of the best examples of architectural biophilia include creating a living plant wall or choosing a building located near natural landscapes that can be highlighted by optimal window design. Bringing a touch of nature to a space can even be as simple as positioning planters beside desks.