A few weeks ago, a plan for a four-day working week was proposed in the UK. It is based on the 100-80-100 principle. In the simplest terms, workers will receive 100% of their wages but will work only 80% of the time, and will maintain 100% productivity. Undeniably, many residents were exhilarated to learn about this potential change that may occur.
In addition to people’s satisfaction, the four-day working plan is expected to lead to a reduced carbon footprint in the UK. A recently conducted study shows that this potential shift may help the country complete its environment-related goals. Take a look at the following paragraphs to find out more about the possible benefits that may follow with the introduction of the four-day working week in the UK.
The Idea for A Four-Day Working Plan
Some of you probably know that in some places in the world people now work four days a week instead of five, but are not deprived of any benefits. They receive the same amount of money and are not required to manage heavier workloads. In February 2022, Joe Ryle suggested a plan of a four-day working week rather than five.
He used other countries with reduced working time as examples of how fewer working days do not mean less productivity. Quite the opposite, actually. According to an analysis carried out by Trades Union Congress, people in Denmark who work four hours less have increased their productivity by more than 21%.
According to Ryle, a four-day working week in the UK will help workers let go of stress, which will result in better productivity. More than 30 companies decided to join the trial by giving their employees a chance to work less without reducing their salaries. The plan will come to action in June 2022 and will last for six months. Here are some of the corporations that said “Yes” to the new proposal:
- Blink
- Autonomy
- Flocc
- Common Knowledge
- Venture Stream
- The Circle
The Four-Day Working Plan and Its Positive Impact on the Environment
Apart from workers, the four-day working plan may have a major positive impact on the environment, as well. A new study states that if this becomes the new norm for UK residents, the UK’s carbon footprint will reduce by 127 million tonnes in a period of a few years. Simply put, if this happens there will be a reduction of more than 20% since 2020. For comparison, that would be equal to reducing the number of cars on the road by more than 26 million.
Less Electricity
This seems quite logical, considering that if people work four days a week, this would mean that they will consume less electricity, whether they work from home or at their work offices. According to experts, even if employees spend just one day less at work, this would have a major impact on the environment, and the UK’s carbon footprint will be released by at least 10%.
An Extra Driving-Free Day
Additionally, fewer working days equals less amount of time people spend driving their vehicles. Even though a considerable number of UK residents have switched to electric cars, petrol vehicles are still prevailing, and, as we all know, they have a very negative impact on the environment.
No Plastic Containers
People who work at offices tend to order takeaway on a regular basis. We all know that meals often get delivered in plastic containers, accompanied by plastic utensils. Additionally, many companies still haven’t switched to reusable plates and cups. In other words, whenever a worker goes to the cafeteria to get a cup of coffee, they have to use plastic cups. Considering that plastic production contributes greatly to the increase of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere, we may conclude that even one day without using plastic will be quite advantageous to the environment.
When Will the Positive Impact Occur
As we have previously mentioned, the four-day working week is a test program that will continue for six months. Taking into account the fact that 30 British companies have joined the test, it is quite obvious that the plan seems to attract the interest of many employers. Although many experts have investigated the potential advantages that may come with the introduction of the four-day working plan, there’s still a lot of time until we observe the change.
It’s been stated that UK residents should work four days a week for at least a year before the carbon dioxide emissions minimize. If the working plan continues longer, the impact will be regarding not only the UK but the entire world, as well. It goes without saying that reduced carbon emissions will contribute to a healthy environment, which also means that people’s health is expected to improve.
Is There Future of the Four-Day Working Week in the UK
It is quite possible for a four-day working week to become the new norm in the United Kingdom. Not only people but employers, as well were excited to find out about this proposal. Leaders who want to contribute to a calm and productive working environment were quick to join the queue of companies who want to sign up for the program and contribute to a reduction of carbon emission, thus, making the world a better place to live.