Poor air quality harms creativity, study says

A study published by researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore highlights that air quality can influence creativity. According to scientists, the biggest villains in the creative process are gases released by products such as detergents, pesticides, perfumes, aerosol sprays and paints.

During the experiments, the research team used Lego pieces. Participants had to express thoughts and ideas by building 3D models.

The idea was to evaluate creative potential in a quantifiable way. However, the scientists themselves admitted that the system could not systematically evaluate creativity, so they added a scoring system.

To achieve this, a thinking process called convergent thinking was used, which focuses on finding a single, consolidated answer to a problem. In each session, the researchers varied the air quality of the workspace using different combinations of air filters, varying the level of pollutants.

The findings, the researchers say, could have important consequences for industries that rely on creativity for most of their work. This is the case for artists who frequently use paints and thinners that release high levels of volatile organic compounds. To enhance creativity, these professionals need adequate ventilation.

The findings also highlight that small adjustments in the office, such as reducing the use of aroma diffusers or ensuring adequate ventilation, can have a positive impact on employees and their productivity.

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Source: Olhar Digital