This report from the Institute for Gender and the Economy looks at how remote work can impact the pursuit of equality. It finds that remote and hybrid work models have been associated with career penalties, work-family conflict, higher stress and other mental health challenges – particularly for those who already experience inequality - and sets out some key implications for the future of work. Many of these disadvantages come about not because of anything inherent about remote work but because of bias, stereotypes and social norms surrounding paid and unpaid work. The report also spotlights the impact of remote work on the environment. Although an increase in remote work has the direct effect of reducing carbon emissions, remote work needs will not have a major impact on the climate crisis unless accompanied by other policy measures, such as ensuring widespread availability of quality public and other low-carbon transportation and affordable housing in urban areas.
