A synthesis of the systemic impact of remote work on greenhouse gas emissions and health

The widespread adoption of remote working, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted renewed interest in its broader environmental and health impacts. Now, the partial reversion to traditional work arrangements, raises questions about how remote work can contribute to environmental and health goals in a post-pandemic world. We adopt a systems perspective, integrating findings from recent literature with a causal loop diagram that maps the interdependencies between remote work, transport behaviour, building energy consumption, and healthrelated factors. Using network analysis, we identify key impact pathways and leverage points within this system. Our findings complement the conclusions of existing literature-which indicates that while remote work can reduce commuting-related emissions, these can be offset by increased non-commuting travel and higher residential energy use-by mapping and identifying impact pathways through the system. Office space management emerges as a critical factor in realising energy savings. In terms of health, remote work is associated with increased sedentary behaviour and musculoskeletal issues due to poor ergonomics, how individuals might be affected is strongly dependent on behavioural factors. The systems analysis reveals that the impacts of remote work are mediated by socioeconomic , behavioural, and spatial factors, highlighting the need for integrated policy interventions. We conclude that remote work alone is insufficient to drive substantial environmental or health benefits without complementary measures targeting transport, urban planning, and workplace practices.