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Remote work and its climate implications explored
Mandates to return to office settings clash with corporate environmental goals, as remote work proves beneficial for reducing carbon emissions.
In short:
- Data shows that increased remote work could significantly cut carbon emissions, potentially aligning with corporate climate targets.
- Studies suggest that commuting contributes heavily to indirect emissions from businesses, which are often overlooked.
- Remote work reduces individual carbon footprints by 54%, even when accounting for increased home energy use and travel.
Key quote:
"It seems like a very obvious solution to a very pressing and real problem."
— Curtis Sparrer, co-founder of Bospar
Why this matters:
As businesses face pressure to meet climate pledges, the increase in remote working offers a viable way to reduce transportation-related emissions. However, widespread mandates for in-person work conflict with these environmental commitments, raising questions about corporate responsibility and environmental integrity.
Flashback to EHN’s 2020 tips for remote work in a COVID-19 world.
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