What would happen if a vast majority of technology workers did not return to the office after the “all clear”, but rather continued working from home? Some workers have to be in-person for their jobs. But for those that can be as productive (if not more so) from home, what does the world look like if they stay put?
There have already been many press releases about the environmental impact that social distancing is having. Some of these claims are a bit sensationalized, but the reality is that there is a true impact. It is fact that air pollution has decreased as a result of less traffic on the street. If you are interested in more about fact versus fiction on the NO2 levels, clear water, and wildlife impact, this USA Today article is a great source. There is hesitation to state that this is having a positive impact versus a temporary relief because the situation is temporary. But again, what if it wasn’t?
If even 50% of the population remained at home that wasn’t at home previously, that’s 50% less emissions. That also reduces the likelihood of accidents, traffic jams, road damage, and other ramifications of increased drivers. This means the air is easier to breathe, you have less traffic headaches, and you can make your meetings on time. Less traffic jams and accidents also reduce the number of calls emergency services must take, freeing them to help others, and reducing the strain on health services.
Now imagine the office buildings. Have you ever stopped to think about how “piggish” we really are? We have nice homes. We leave them every day to go sit someplace else for hours, and our homes are empty. Then, we return home, leaving those buildings empty. It’s like we have summer/winter homes but by day versus season! Do we need to daily homes?
What would happen if we didn’t return to those buildings? Now there is suddenly a ton of real estate available, often times where such space is non-existent. Let’s dream about what this space could become…
- Housing for the homeless.
- New classrooms, from elementary to university.
- Traditional hospitals, VA hospitals, children’s hospitals, or even research hospitals.
- Shopping centers focused on local businesses, providing them an opportunity to turn things around after pandemic impacts.
- Markets, like a farmer’s market, but even more with locally made goods and art.
- Museums to showcase local artists.
- Restaurant rows, where local chefs can start up and showcase their eats
- Indoor greenhouses and farms for local produce
- Rec centers, sports facilities and gyms for youth and adults
You get the idea. Just about anything really. Most of these facilities have some level of rooms and plumbing on every floor. They are already equipped with stairs, elevators, accessibility items, and safety controls. They are located in the heart of the city. They are surrounded by parking and/or public transit, making them accessible to visitors.
This could be the dawn of a new era. It could be the start of truly utilizing our technological advances to keep modernizing the world, but also bring back local commerce and community development. The opportunity to provide opportunities is abundant!
I ask you again to just imagine. Pause for a moment and think about the positive changes to the environment and the community that could be possible if we continue working from home. I’m not sure it will come to fruition, but it sure is fun to ponder!
You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one.
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