Some people have been working from home for years, even decades. The pandemic showed that many more people can do so with no change to work effectiveness and productivity (some people get more productive!).

The benefits to the carbon footprint are clear.

• No commutes by car (usually ICEV) to work reduces carbon and other air pollution.
• Better Work/Life balance for remote workers, no longer losing the commuting time and often making child care much simpler.
• More liable to go shopping locally and to use local cafes etc for a lunch break, benefits the local economy.
• Short trips into town can be walked or cycled, thus improving physical and mental health.

The main downsides are:

• Increased heating bills in winter.
• Some homes are not suitable for home working.
• Potential for overworking and burnout.