Work-from-home (WFH) vs Commuting Emissions from Employees?
WFH emissions are measured based on home energy use during work hours, while commuting emissions are measured based on employee travel modes and distances.
Trace calculates these categories separately, using standard GHG Protocol methodologies:
Commuting: based on employee travel modes, distances, and working patterns
WFH: based on average home energy use (electricity, heating/cooling) attributed to work hours
It is common for WFH emissions to appear higher if employees are working from home more days per week or in regions with higher electricity intensity, even though total travel-related emissions fall.
When setting workplace policy, we suggest interpreting these results as a balance consideration. While WFH reduces travel emissions, its benefit depends on local grid intensity and office energy efficiency. We can model different scenarios for you if you would like to explore an optimal balance.
We encourage you to try Tracey AI, our intelligent advisory tool trained on the GHG Protocol and global decarbonisation best practice. She provides accurate, up-to-date guidance on methodology, emission factors, and reduction strategies directly within Trace.