Despite the pandemic accelerating the trend towards remote work or working from home (WFH), many companies are urging workers to return to the office. However, workers are resisting this idea and pushing back against these efforts.
While there are numerous benefits to returning to the office, such as better communication, collaboration, and a higher sense of belonging, it is evident that workers prefer to work from home not because they hate the office, but because they hate the commute. Time-consuming commutes, resulting from long distances, congestion, and road pollution, are among the contributing factors. According to a survey, 79% of employees identified the lack of a commute as one of the best aspects of working from home. A lengthy commute is a significant reason why employees favour working from home over going to the office. Many employees value the time, money, and flexibility gained by eliminating the commute. For a considerable number of workers, the commute is the most undesirable part of working in an office. Eliminating it would not only save them time and money but also have a direct impact on the quality and quantity of their work.
A study conducted in 2019 reveals that the average one-way commute time in Jakarta is approximately 64.5 minutes. Furthermore, an earlier study indicated that Jakartans spend an average of 400 hours per year commuting to and from work, which amounts to around 66 minutes per day, accounting for nearly 7% of a person's waking hours. Unfortunately, the traffic situation in Jakarta has not improved over the years and has, in fact, worsened. In 2022, the average time it takes to travel just 10 kilometers in Jakarta is 22 minutes and 40 seconds, an increase of 2 minutes and 50 seconds compared to 2021.
The reluctance of workers to return to the office is not solely attributed to the arduous and time-consuming commute. Health hazards and discomforts associated with being stuck in traffic amidst a landscape rife with high levels of pollution is also plays a major factor. Noxious exhaust fumes, industrial emissions, and the lingering effects of fossil fuel power generation all contribute to a commute that poses significant risks to one's well-being. The detrimental impact of prolonged exposure to such pollutants cannot be ignored, as it can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other adverse health effects.
Fortunately, there are several ways to make the commute better, more enjoyable, or at least more bearable. One option is to utilize public transportation such as the new MRT and LRT, which can be more efficient and less stressful than driving. Employers can also provide flexible work schedules, including staggered start and end times, to help employees avoid rush hour traffic.
Additionally, companies can enhance the commute experience by offering amenities such as on-site gyms, cafes, and childcare facilities, thereby improving work-life balance for employees.
Lastly, incorporating an in-car air purifier such as Blueair Cabin to make the air cleaner and fresher can reduce the impact of road pollution on commuters' health, making the journey to the office more enjoyable and healthier.
By implementing these strategies, companies and employees can work together to transform the daily commute into a more positive and productive experience.
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