What does sustainability look like for remote and hybrid workforces in 2022?

For the past couple of years, we have published a series of articles to commemorate Earth Day and help provide some tips on how remote workers can make a positive impact on their local environment and reduce their overall carbon footprint.

As people who regularly work from home, remote agents are already helping reduce global greenhouse emissions by forgoing the commute to work. But with many companies eager for employees to return to the office, the era of widespread work-from-home operations may be gradually coming to an end for many of us.

Now, more than ever, we all must do our part to examine the ways in which we interact with the world around us, even for those of us who spend most of our time working remotely.

Explore eco-friendly alternatives to everyday items.

Due in part to climate change and a series of major wildfires in recent years, the US is currently undergoing a significant paper shortage. As the global economy recovers from the past couple of years, American consumers may want to invest in more sustainable alternatives to the resources we have previously taken for granted.

Whether it be cloth napkins instead of paper, digital books instead of physical, or bars of soap instead of body wash, take a look around the house and make note of the objects that can be replaced with a more eco-friendly option. Paper and plastic may be recyclable, but they are also leading contributors to global waste and pollution.

Heading back to the office, full-time or part of a hybrid environment? Bring your own plate, water bottle, and utensils to minimize the use of single-use items.

This is also a reminder to check in on your local recycling process. What is accepted in the recycling bin can vary from city or county, so make sure you’re following the rules for your area.

Take a stand on the issues important to you.

In recent months, certain large corporations have come under public scrutiny for unethical practices regarding international labor and environmental exploitation. Standing up for what’s right can be daunting, and it can be hard to know exactly where to start. However, the problems we face as a planet won’t go away unless we make our voices heard.

Use your platform to raise awareness about environmental and humanist causes that mean something to you and your community. Look into activist groups within your area and talk to like-minded neighbors about ways you can organize locally and show support for the marginalized to ensure a more equitable world for us all.

In the workplace (remote or in-office), find opportunities to champion positive environmental impacts. Lead by example, share awareness and encourage change with small steps.

Do your part to be a helpful member of your local community.

Inflation and rising gas prices are currently affecting all of our lives, although some people may be struggling in silence. Check in with your friends, family, and neighbors during this time to see if there is anything you can do to alleviate the stress in their lives. Sharing food, carpooling, babysitting, or even running errands for others can make a big impact on someone’s day.

This year, Earth Day should serve as a reminder to all of us that we’re all part of the same planet and that we can all make sustainability choices every day that make a positive impact on our local environment as well as the people we share it with. Climate change and global instability are issues that impact us all and can only be addressed when we resolve to come together as a shared, global community.