Remote Working has grown over the last decade, and especially in the last two years for (for obvious reasons) with workers and employers adapting to their new world of work.
We already know that working from home provides many benefits including increased productivity, reduced business costs and a healthier lifestyle. Working from home has had many beneficial knock on effects, including the reduced size of our global footprint on the environment, In this post we look at the most positive environmental benefits of remote work.
1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
First of all, when working from home there is no need to commute to work, which in turn helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The daily commute is a big contributor to greenhouse gas emissions which are harmful for the environment. Millions of people commute daily to work releasing toxic pollutants into the atmosphere leading to poorer air and health problems. In fact, Global Workforce Analytics, estimates that working from home half the week can reduce emissions by 54 million tons every year.
2. Reduce fuel usage
The majority of people still travel to work in petrol/diesel vehicles which damage the environment. While efforts have been made to use electric vehicles, fuel consumption is still popular, for example; Americans use an average of 393 million gallons of petrol every day. As remote workers drive less, they reduce their consumption of these fuels contributing to a greener environment.
3. Less office waste
By allowing employees to work remotely, employers can cut down on everything from printer paper to the use of plastic. During a workday, employees use a huge amount of physical resources. Remote workers typically create less waste during their workday preferring to use email and digital tools for messaging, taking notes and sending files. Having to bear the cost of office supplies usually translates to remote employees being more aware of waste and preferring digital solutions.
4. Less energy usage
When you run an office, the energy costs are expensive. Depending on the season, the company will either need to heat or cool the office to ensure their employees are comfortable. In contrast when working from home, remote workers have more control over their energy costs by choosing how hot or cold they want their home to be.
Final thoughts
Final thoughtsThe effects of climate change are on everyone’s minds with governments and world leaders trying to come up with sustainable suggestions. Remote working could help greatly reduce climate change and help our environment.
While there are many benefits of remote working for employers, some are not convinced. However, studies show that even just a day or two where employees work from home can help create a greener environment.
By 2025, 75% of the workforce will be made up of Millennials and Generation Z. Both groups prefer flexible working patterns and are conscious about saving the planet. Employers who are willing to have remote working or flexible working patterns as an option will be able to attract top talent from this generation of eco-friendly workers.