Indian Companies Tackle Air Pollution With Flexible Work Policies And Air Purifiers

The situation intensifies during the winter months, when cooler temperatures and reduced wind speeds trap pollutants near the ground, creating dense smog

As air pollution in Indian cities continues to worsen, companies like Coca-Cola India, ITC, Infosys, KPMG, and Deloitte India are taking proactive measures to safeguard their employees. According to a report by The Economic Times, these companies are implementing flexible work policies and installing air purification systems in their offices.

Delhi’s air pollution reached critical levels on Monday, surpassing the 1,000 mark and making the city one of the most polluted in the world. Major contributors include vehicular emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, and crop stubble burning in neighbouring states.

The situation intensifies during the winter months, when cooler temperatures and reduced wind speeds trap pollutants near the ground, creating dense smog. This air pollution poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly, increasing the likelihood of respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

Despite initiatives like the odd-even vehicle scheme and the promotion of cleaner fuels, Delhi continues to grapple with severe air pollution. The ongoing crisis underscores the need for more stringent policies and regional collaboration to improve air quality.

To address the worsening situation, the Delhi government has implemented Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes measures such as banning diesel vehicles, restricting non-essential trucks, halting construction activities, and encouraging work-from-home arrangements.

In response to the pollution crisis, several companies, including Coca-Cola India, ITC, Infosys, KPMG, and Deloitte India, are adopting flexible work policies during periods of severe air pollution. Coca-Cola India, for instance, offers employees the option to work remotely, from satellite offices in other cities, or from the office, with flexible working hours. 

Colgate-Palmolive India has introduced a "work from anywhere" policy for all employees, while KPMG offers remote and hybrid work arrangements depending on client needs and team coordination.

Additionally, many companies are investing in air purifiers, advanced filters, and indoor plants to improve indoor air quality. Acer India has installed air purifiers in its offices and meeting rooms and has also provided employees with personal air purifiers for their homes. 

KPMG has upgraded its air handling units with MERV 14 filters and added indoor plants to improve air quality further. Similarly, PepsiCo and Deloitte have placed air purifiers and indoor plants throughout their offices to create a healthier work environment.