Governments Encouraging Telework Programs

January 5, 2009

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In recent years, technology advancements have made it easier to telecommute, a green move that many governments are encouraging, CIO Today reports.

One study showed that commuting five days a week releases more than 51,000 pounds of CO2 into the environment and uses almost 400 gallons of gas per year.

Telecommute programs can help organizations to save on real estate and the facilities requirements to support them. In addition, using at-home agents also cuts down on transportation and the amount of fuel consumed by them.

Many governments are instituting tax incentives or regulations to encourage such green behaviors. In Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties, the government provides a $500 tax credit to companies initiating telework programs. Georgia offers up to $20,000 in tax credits to conduct feasibility studies and up to a $1,200 credit per teleworker. Virginia offers a tax credit of up to $35,000 per company.

Telecommuting gained momentum last year. Sun shared the results of its telecommuting program and found that it not only saved employees money on gas but also helped the company save nearly $68 million in real estate costs.

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Reader Comments

Workers who do not have adequate facilities at home (reliable internet and a private work area), should consider working from a remote office near their home. Remote Office Centers allow workers to cut down on long commutes while providing a work environment that is nearly identical to a traditional office – making the transition to telecommuting easier.

Remote Offices can be found by searching the internet for “Remote Office Centers”.

aullman | January 6th, 2009