Workers who moved from conventional office buildings to environmentally “green” buildings said they called in sick less often and were more productive. The preliminary findings of a study by researchers at Michigan State University indicate that green buildings may positively affect public health.

The researchers looked at two case studies in the Lansing, Mich., area found that moving into LEED-certified buildings contributed to noticeable reductions in self-reported absenteeism and stress. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design is a designation by the U.S. Green Building Council for buildings with environmentally friendly design, construction practice and operation.

The study also found the workers’ productivity also improved as a result of perceived improvements in health and well-being. The study appears in the online version of the American Journal of Public Health.

The researchers plan to seek additional funding to continue monitor the study participants and to conduct similar studies at different locations.