"Because commuting is a thing of the (recent) past"
We ask the European Commission to legislate that remote work becomes mandatory wherever the position allows it technically and humanly. This won't be optional or individually negotiated—it will be the default choice.
Immediate decrease in carbon emissions by eliminating daily commutes and reducing urban energy consumption.
Dramatically reduce urban transport usage and traffic congestion in city centers.
Optimize already existing digital infrastructures instead of building new physical spaces.
Decrease demand for physical office spaces that generate unnecessary consumption.
Better work-life balance and mental health for millions of European workers.
Equal access to remote work opportunities, not dependent on individual negotiation power.
During COVID-19 lockdowns, when remote work functioned massively, productivity was maintained or even improved.
Pollution dropped, commuting was reduced, and urban centers experienced historic decongestion.
But... most companies forced a return to offices. Why?
Remote work reduces indirect consumption: gasoline, eating out, office rentals, mobility-related expenses, etc.
The market system cannot tolerate measures that reduce systemic spending, even if they benefit society and the planet. It's always profit first, for every actor in the game.
Like war, overproduction, and unnecessary work: keeping people busy and consuming is vital for the system, regardless of human or ecological cost.
We're currently in the phase of seeking promoters for this European Citizens' Initiative