Today is Earth Day, but given some of the recent reports on climate change, it’s clear we need to be focused on the environment each and every day.
We realize there are many jobs that often require a physical presence and intend this post to help you to think out of the ‘typical box’.
Through a Google search, you can find many elite doctors that have performed successful virtual surgeries. When patients can’t come to doctors and doctors can’t come to patients, there are alternatives – no matter how remote the location.
This is the ‘virtual reality’ we live in these days… Almost every task can be completed online with the right technology.
Here at DemGen, we utilize tools such as Google Drive, Basecamp, Highrise, Infusionsoft, Grasshopper and many more to collaborate virtually.
Given how effectively we utilize these tools on a day-to-day basis, we often wonder why commute unless essential? OnlineMBA said back in 2010, beyond the environmental impact, businesses are losing money on in-house workers. Technology has evolved even more since, allowing for even more online collaboration…
According to 2013 US Census data, 8.1 percent of U.S. workers still commute for 60 minutes or longer (frighteningly 10.1 percent in California), and nearly 600,000 full-time workers are “mega commuters,” traveling 90 minutes, 50 miles or more for their jobs. What percent of that is actually necessary in this day and age?
Indeed, many commuters require face-to-face meetings, but what about the rest? How much could telecommuting, even just for one day of the week, or hiring a virtual team, help the environment?
Not to mention, people that don’t commute are just happier and more productive! (Wouldn’t you be if you didn’t have to make your way into the office and back every day?)
Times, they are a changing.
Instead of simply pondering what you can do this Earth Day, I challenge you to think about the BIG picture…
What can you do that will make a lasting impact to ensure future generations are able to enjoy Earth as we know it?
Baby steps are always a great starting point! Whatever you choose to do, you need to stick with it to inspire others to do the same.
Any step in the right direction is a good thing. Whatever you do to limit your environmental impact, we commend you! Please let us know in the comments or on social media, so we can share your feats. (We’re big fans of supporting people doing great things!)
© Tamara Smith, DemGen Inc. 2014
