The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in remote work, and as we continue to adapt to this new way of working, it’s important to consider the many benefits it can bring. From reducing our carbon footprint to saving money on childcare, working from home can have a positive impact on both our personal and professional lives. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the many benefits of working from home in more detail.
First, let’s talk about the environmental impact. According to a study by the University of Cambridge, remote work can reduce carbon emissions by reducing the number of car and train journeys. This can lead to a significant reduction in pollution and a positive impact on the environment. The study estimates that if all UK office workers were to work from home just one day per week, it would reduce carbon emissions by around 16 million tons per year, equivalent to taking 4 million cars off the road.
Another benefit of working from home is the cost savings. By not needing to send children to morning and after-school clubs, parents can save hundreds of pounds per year. According to a report by the Family and Childcare Trust, the average cost of childcare for a child under 2 years old in the UK is £122 per week, or £6,344 per year. For children aged 2-4, the average cost is £106 per week, or £5,512 per year. These costs can be even higher for parents who need to enroll their children in morning and after-school clubs, which can add an additional £40 to £200 per month per child. Additionally, working from home can also help to save money on transportation costs such as public transport or parking.
Working from home also has many benefits for our well-being. Being around our pets can decrease stress and anxiety, and improve our overall mental health. A study by the American Psychological Association found that petting an animal can lower blood pressure and decrease the production of stress hormones. Plus, who doesn’t love a cute little furry distraction during a long workday? You’re also more likely to increase your movement by taking them for a lunch-time walk. Additionally, working from home allows us to spend more time in the place we work hard to pay for, our home, being around our pets and loved ones, and can also lead to improved work-life balance and overall well-being.
Lastly, we cannot over look the proven improved productivity. With the flexibility to set our own schedule and create a comfortable work environment, we can focus better on our tasks and get more done. A study by the Small Business Administration found that remote workers are 13% more productive than those who work in the office.
When the benefits stack up this much, it’s hard to argue with.
