The potential for nature-based solutions to improve energy efficiency and workplace wellbeing within Aotearoa New Zealand businesses : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Environmental Management at Massey University, Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

As global environmental concerns grow alongside increasing energy demand and the need to transition to renewable resources, organisations face challenges in improving the energy efficiency of their premises. At the same time, workplace wellbeing and the role of thermal comfort has emerged as critical factors in businesses' performance. There is thus growing recognition of the relationship between workplace wellbeing and energy efficiency. Nature based solutions are sustainable, holistic strategies that utilise living systems to address environmental and social challenges such as water management, biodiversity, and climate mitigation. But they also offer significant potential to improve energy efficiency and workplace wellbeing. In this context, the aim of this research is to systematically review the literature documenting existing nature-based solutions that have the potential to enhance energy efficiency and workplace wellbeing within current business premises; and to develop a framework for identifying and implementing these solutions. The research was conducted through a comprehensive literature review and 25 semi-structured interviews with a range of experts including architects, engineers, construction consultants, sustainability consultants, property managers, landscaping professionals and academics in the ecology, construction, and research sectors. This research seeks to address the gap in the application of ecological knowledge to energy efficiency and workplace wellbeing within existing business premises in Aotearoa New Zealand. It was found that there is significant potential to use vegetation strategically for these outcomes through five key functions: shading, humidity balancing, air filtration, wind protection, and visual and acoustic enhancement. Systematic analysis of these factors informed the proposal of six potential nature-based solutions: outdoor free-standing vegetation; vertical green systems; pergolas, awnings and other outdoor structures; balconies; living roofs and indoor vegetation. The research also highlighted the need to consider Aotearoa’s unique cultural context and identity; the use of native versus exotic plants; the importance of existing policies and frameworks; the inclusion of mātauranga Māori; the barriers posed by a lack of community ecological literacy; and a need to reframe the concept of place-based, nature-based solutions. This research concludes by presenting a systematic, step-by-step framework that businesses can use to assess their current premises and methodologies for implementing nature-based solutions for energy efficiency and workplace wellbeing.