Published on
There are more and more people who work 100% remotely and, therefore, the possibility of working while traveling the world is a reality. Cities like Lisbon, Barcelona and Tallinn have become magnets for these professionals seeking work and cultural freedom. But is this phenomenon really sustainable? Although at first glance it seems to reduce the ecological footprint, constant travel and the impact on local communities lead us to question whether this trend is as “green” as it seems. In this article, we look at the pros and cons of being a digital nomad and its environmental impact.
Over the past decade, the term “digital nomad” has gone from a fringe concept to a growing global trend. More and more people are opting for a lifestyle that allows them to work remotely while exploring the world. Equipped with a laptop and a stable internet connection, these knowledge workers are, for the most part, professionals in the technology sector, content creators, entrepreneurs and freelancers. Traditional work restrictions dissolve and, with it, the concept of the office is redefined.
Europe, with its rich cultural diversity, excellent infrastructure and ease of access to multiple countries, has become a magnet for digital nomads. Some cities have emerged as key destinations are:
- Lisbon, Portugal: With its mild climate, nearby beaches, affordable cost of living and a growing community of nomads, Lisbon has gained popularity. Its modern coworking spaces and relaxed atmosphere are part of the appeal.
- Barcelona, Spain: The vibrant urban life, the proximity to the beach and the cultural offer make it irresistible. Although costs have increased, it remains a sought-after destination.
- Tallinn, Estonia: This small Baltic country has positioned itself as a pioneer in government digitalization. The e-residency program makes it easier for nomads to establish businesses in Europe without having a permanent physical presence.
- Berlin, Germany: The city, known for its art, technology and diversity, attracts creatives and tech entrepreneurs who value cosmopolitan energy and disruptive thinking.
- Budapest, Hungary: With a low cost of living and advanced digital infrastructure, the Hungarian capital has grown in popularity among those seeking a combination of history, comfort and modernity.
The environmental impact of digital nomads
At first glance, the life of a digital nomad may seem sustainable: the absence of a physical office suggests fewer resources used, fewer daily commutes, and an overall lower carbon footprint. However, when analyzing in detail the environmental impact of this lifestyle, several considerations arise such as:
- Reduction of physical infrastructure: Without the need for traditional offices, companies can reduce their physical space and, therefore, the consumption of electricity, water and construction materials, reducing the overall environmental impact.
- Use of renewable energies: Some digital nomads opt for cities or accommodations that promote clean and sustainable energy. Additionally, many coworking spaces in Europe have adopted green practices, such as the use of solar panels, recycling, and waste reduction.
- Mobility by bicycle or public transport: In many of the favorite cities of digital nomads, public transport is efficient and many people choose to get around by bicycle, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
However, there are also those who point out digital nomads and argue that their lifestyle is far from being sustainable:
-
Frequent flights: One of the biggest points of debate is the dependence of digital nomads on flights to move between cities and countries. Although many try to limit their air travel, the impact of a single transatlantic flight is significant in terms of carbon footprint.
-
Short stay tourism: The itinerant lifestyle can encourage mass consumption in tourist locations and increase pressure on local resources. Destinations that see a constant flow of digital nomads must deal with increased demand for accommodation, transportation and services, which can result in increased pollution and resource exploitation.
-
The “Airbnb effect”: The growing demand for short-term rentals can displace local residents and increase housing prices, especially in cities like Lisbon or Barcelona. This forces urban expansion, which can negatively impact the environment.
But then, is it a sustainable lifestyle or not? The debate about the sustainability of the digital nomad lifestyle is complex. While it is true that eliminating physical offices and moving towards more flexible working can reduce environmental impact, the carbon footprint associated with travel and tourism consumption is a significant challenge.
However, there are ways to make this lifestyle more responsible. For example, digital nomads can commit to traveling less frequently and staying longer in one place, adopting local consumption practices, reducing their use of single-use plastics, and opting for more sustainable means of transportation. Ultimately, the digital nomad has the power to decide how sustainable their impact will be. The trend is increasing, and the need to reflect on the environmental implications of this lifestyle is more relevant than ever.