Analysis of Impacts of Telecommuting for Reduction of Environmental Pollution

Telecommuting is defined as the substitution of journeys to work by working from alternative locations using information technologies and telecommunications. Telecommuting is often stated as a solution for transport demand management and increase of quality of life. In term of environment, telecommuting can reduce gas emissions, traffic accidents, noise and traffic jams. This paper analyses positive and negative impacts of telecommuting on environment. A framework is proposed as an initiative toward model development. The framework includes a suitable definition and classification, relationship of variables and a concept diagram for development of a model which can well evaluate environmental impacts of telecommuting. Calculation equations for air and noise pollution reduction of telecommuting are developed. The paper then discusses difficulties in evaluation of impacts of telecommuting on environment and further research.