While the world’s focus has been glued to the coronavirus recently, there is another pressing crisis looming: climate change.
World Environment Day, the United Nations’ driving force to encourage awareness towards the protection of our environment, falls early in June. Activists like 17-year-old Greta Thunberg dedicate their time to promote action to preserve the environment, and they’re making a difference, but it’s arguably too slow-moving to generate enough change in time.
However, as a result of quarantimes and lockdown levels, there has been a significant acceleration in the adoption of technology in the workforce. From remote work to reduced industry hours, the resultant shift the environment has seen has been remarkable – and it’s a radically needed one.
Staying Home is Advantageous to the Environment
While it’s a major economic contention, people staying at home are proving less harmful to the environment. Statistics back this up. Looking at data comparing December 2019 to April 2020, remote work is undeniably beneficial to the environment:
- In China, gas emissions fell by 25% as people stayed home.
- Coal use dropped by 40% at China’s six largest power plants since October 2019.
- “Good quality air” has surged by 11.4% this year, compared to this time last year.
- In New York, carbon monoxide gas levels have dropped by nearly 50% compared to last year.
- Countries are experiencing temporary falls in carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide of as much as 40%.
- Traffic in the UK has fallen by over 70% (to levels last seen in 1955).
- Noise pollution has reduced too. Seismologists are recording lower vibrations from “cultural noise” as the world has quietened.
It would be facile to believe that the world could rely on remote work across industries. It’s simply unfeasible. However, it’s completely reasonable now to consider a world where more people rely on the internet, rather than the four walls of an office.
Sustainability Meets Success
What has become certain in this bizarre time of uncertainty is that it’s crucial to consider things with long-term thinking when making decisions now. This means seeking success with sustainability at the forefront. One way to do this is to secure a future where personal, professional, and planetary wins are all part of the package.
By taking Digital Programmes through GIBS Online, you will be able to satisfy the sustainable success your career deserves. Harness the immense efficiency of the internet and you’ll not only gain valuable insight, but you’ll also be working towards protecting the planet on which your future depends.
