22nd April was Earth Day 2023 and to coincide with this we looked into a new report that was carried out by IWG (International Workplace Group) and Arup that found Hybrid working could reduce carbon emissions by up to 70% in the U.K and 87% in the U.S.
The report, The Future of Work: A Cleaner, Hybrid Future highlights the potential for major carbon savings that would have an impact on the climate crisis. Comparing the carbon impact of hybrid working, against commuting into the city 5 days a week across 6 cities including, London and LA, New York City, Atlanta, Manchester and Glasgow.
Hybrid working, a term used for those that split their time working from a shared workspace/ home/ company HQ has increased amongst office workers and that brings about a reduction in commutes as they work closer to home as part of this hybrid model. This shows that more local working has a role to play in reducing an individual’s carbon footprint.
As well as transport, the research looked into the total emissions per worker based on heating, cooling, lighting and energy use to understand the impact.
An article on Business Because this week, states that this type of research outcome is attractive to Gen Z business students who are looking for environmentally aware employers. Companies who adopt a hybrid model of working, are viewed as having sustainability and corporate social responsibility which are must-have credentials to Gen Z graduates.
IWG encourages businesses to consider hybrid working to contribute to the fight against climate change, but this could also be a way to attract new talent to your Organisation also.
One way to go hybrid is to move away from long-leased expensive, headquarter dependency and use local flex spaces such as One Hub in Southend. With strong local transport links and a prime City Centre location, we are walking distance to green spaces and the seafront, and we are well placed to help your Organisation and staff reduce their carbon footprint.