How Remote Workers Are Helping to Save The Planet

Research collected by Instant Offices revealed US employees working from home prevent the emission of 3.6 million tons of commuting-related greenhouse gasses every year. That’s equivalented to planting 91 million trees!

By allowing more employees to work from home or telecommute more often, businesses across the nation can rapidly become more energy efficient and reap the rewards that come with introducing flexible working in the workplace. With this in mind, Instant Offices provides a breakdown of why employers in the US should consider implementing the idea of flexible working seriously.

Compelling statistics by FlexJobs has shown remote working has become a more sustainable way of working that benefits both employer and employee and creates a huge positive impact on the environment.

Here are some of the key stats that show why flexible working could be the solution to solving problems with work-life balance, employee retention, and productivity:

• Commuting is part of the second-largest source of US greenhouse gas emissions; daily transport to and from work is a significant contributor to environmental pollution. Passenger cars are one of the biggest culprits.
• Offices are part of the fourth-largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
• A 10% reduction in one person’s office hours leads to a 15% decrease in their individual carbon footprint.
• Remote work also keeps employees healthier, reducing their exposure to environmental pollution, poor air quality and germs. Healthier employees are naturally more productive and less likely to need sick days.

Even though workers in the U.S. tend to work longer hours on average than their continental counterparts, Huffington Post reported some employers in the states also recognise the benefits of a four-day working week.

A smaller software company in San Francisco has created a four-day week model, allowing employees to choose one extra day off a week. Interestingly, Wednesday is the most popular choice, as many workers find a mid-week break leaves them refreshed to tackle their creative and technical tasks for the rest of the week.

Tips for a More Energy-Conscious Office

Businesses across the globe need to consider all aspects of their operations when looking for ways to go green. Some common areas of focus include:

• Electricity: Switching to energy-saving light bulbs throughout the building, and using timers for overnight and external lighting, can add up to substantial energy bill savings.

• Water: Encouraging employees to use water sparingly and wisely can also reduce the cost of utilities.

• Reusable items: The average employee generates 4.40lb of waste every day, according to Road Runner! Businesses can cut down on trash by replacing single-use paper cups and plastic bottles with attractive reusable cups and bottles, branded with the company logo.

• Sustainable supplies: Before ordering office supplies, research the available brands and choose those that have green policies, use minimal packaging and embrace sustainable materials.

• Paper: Going paperless also helps to make a dent in the daily 2lb of discarded paper waste. Replace printouts with e-mails and digital presentations and encourage employees to take notes digitally.

• Recycling: An estimated 70% of a business’s landfill waste can be recycled. Make sure your building or office park has a recycling programme in place.

• Commuting: Allowing more employees to work remotely cuts down on carbon emissions generated by their drive to and from the office, and also reduces their in-office energy costs.