Previously we’ve discussed how telecommuting provides irrefutable environmental benefits by, for starters, eliminating commutes and the associated vehicle emissions.

Some businesses are taking this concept a step further, encouraging telecommuters to make their actual home office environmentally-friendly. It’s a concept that’s quickly taking hold in regions where telecommuting is fairly common, such as the San Francisco Bay Area.

There are many concrete steps telecommuters can take – without or without their employer’s urging – to make their home office more environmentally friendly. They include reducing paper usage, intensifying recycling efforts, turning off all electrical devices when not in use, and opting for ceiling fans over more environmentally-taxing air conditioning.

Of course, the telecommuter may occasionally pay a visit to the home office – underscoring the importance of an effective room scheduling software platform to accommodate them – but as long as they work from home, then can take positive steps to help the environment.