Free days for future? Longitudinal effects of working time reductions on individual well-being and environmental behaviour

Working time reductions (WTR) are a promising strategy to foster both environmental behaviour and individual well-being. It is unclear, however, whether these possible effects more likely due reduced income or discretionary time. Moreover, prior studies have only tested the of WTR cross-sectionally, well-being including wage compensations. We conducted longitudinal three-wave study with Swiss employees, one group who voluntarily their working hours following first questionnaire. Between-subject analysis suggested that decreased associated GHG-related behaviours, increased While improved mainly income, arise despite lower income. Analyses over revealed after reducing hours, participants reported well-being, intent-related pro-environmental behaviour, less car commuting, clothing expenditures. However, no improvement was found regarding other which strongly linked levels. Thus, standard time, simultaneously may be strategy. day per week will probably not reach full ecological potential societal-level WTR.