1. Purpose
The European University of Lefke (EUL) is committed to promoting sustainable working practices, employee wellbeing, and environmental responsibility. This policy aims to introduce flexible working arrangements, including a compressed working week, to reduce employee commuting, lower transportation-related carbon emissions, and support a healthier work-life balance, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2. Scope
This policy applies to academic and administrative staff of the University, subject to the operational requirements of their respective departments and units.
3. Flexible Working Arrangements
EUL supports flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible, including:
- Compressed Working Week: Employees may complete their contractual weekly working hours over fewer working days, such as four days instead of five, thereby reducing the number of commuting days.
- Flexible Working Hours: Employees may adjust their daily starting and finishing times, subject to departmental approval.
- Hybrid and Remote Working: Where the nature of the duties permits, employees may undertake certain responsibilities remotely to minimise unnecessary commuting.
4. Implementation of the Compressed Working Week
The University encourages departments to consider compressed working week arrangements as a means of reducing employee commuting and associated carbon emissions.
Under this arrangement, eligible employees may distribute their required weekly working hours across fewer days, while maintaining their contractual responsibilities and the quality of services provided.
Implementation is subject to approval by the relevant department and University administration, compliance with applicable employment regulations, and the continuity of academic, administrative, and student support services.
5. Sustainability and Employee Wellbeing
Through this policy, EUL aims to:
- Reduce employee commuting frequency and transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions.
- Promote sustainable mobility and environmentally responsible working practices.
- Improve employee wellbeing and work-life balance.
- Support institutional sustainability objectives and contribute to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
6. Monitoring and Review
The University will periodically review the implementation and effectiveness of flexible working arrangements, considering employee participation, reduced commuting frequency, environmental benefits, staff satisfaction, and operational efficiency.
7. Policy Commitment
EUL is committed to encouraging flexible and sustainable working practices, particularly compressed working week arrangements that reduce the need for daily employee commuting, while ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality education and administrative services.