With every passing day, the sustainability challenges are becoming more obvious and critical. Did you know that the carbon–dioxide emissions caused by humans must be reduced by 45% from the level we had in 2010 within 2030? And it should reach net-zero by 2050 if we want to avoid climate change catastrophe. Fortunately, there are many organizations which are taking initiatives to drive change that will benefit both the world and their businesses. The good news is, global sustainability can be achieved through technology now. Yes, you heard that right. Technology can save our world if used properly.
Source- https://www.pexels.com/photo/three-white-windmills-figure-table-decors-1076807/
If you run or plan to run a sustainable business, it is necessary to stay updated with the latest technologies which will help in your business growth as well as save the environment. Here are the top technology updates that you must know to promote the growth of your sustainable business:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Sustainable companies are getting more serious about using AI. With the help of AI, companies are improving their inner processes and production line. If you look at the agricultural sector, companies are reducing food waste, by applying AI in production. An example would be the utilization of farming micro-robots that pick up only the fully ripe produce while leaving the rest to grow. When the rate of mistakenly picked products is low, the efficiency of production increases.
Source- https://pixabay.com/illustrations/artificial-intelligence-brain-think-3382507/
2. Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has always been considered as a way to save money. Cloud computing helps you get flexibility and reduce operating or physical costs. You can lower the need for equipments, which come with physical servers, by using different cloud platforms. Cloud helps you move virtual servers, and lower the level of environmental controls necessary to keep the physical servers’ operation smooth.
Source- https://www.pexels.com/photo/blue-skies-clouds-cut-fingers-335907/
3. Internet of Things (IoT)
Internet of Things is overtaking our daily life and the way we do business. Richard Wilson, a tech expert who has worked on developing many paraphrasing tools, states that data and connectivity contribute largely to building a sustainable world. For example, we can consider smart grids.
Smart grids monitor energy supply and demand while gathering usage data and implementing it to energy networks. These grids become more efficient by comprehending when and where energy is required. This way, the grid allows organizations to preserve energy in low demand, which can help meet the need. Thus, smart grid solutions help in the adoption of renewable power. Although not many companies are currently using IoT to carry out their efforts for bringing sustainability in the world, the scenario is likely to change in the near future.
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4. Mobile Applications
In the corporate ecosystem, mobile applications are being accepted now more than ever. This helps in increasing data sharing and communication, which reduces the need for traveling. Thus, the level of emissions that comes from transportations decreases. Greenease, a food app that is now limited to only New York and Washington DC, help the users to discover green restaurants. Thus, it makes eating out a socially responsible act. This way, the app supports and endorses the green movements of the locality.
Source- https://pixabay.com/photos/iphone-smartphone-apps-apple-inc-410311/
5. Augmented Reality (AR)
AR applications can easily resolve the challenges that companies face while transitioning towards sustainability. AR helps organizations in increasing the efficiency of product development, reduce the manufacturing and delivery time, etc. It can largely shorten the time to repair a product. Thus, the consumers’ issue will be resolved in the shortest time possible. The need for checking the product manually or over the phone will not be necessary with the use of AR. As the data is directly sent to the manufacturer and no executive has to travel to visit customers’ house, it will help in reducing carbon footprint.
Source- https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-wearing-vr-goggles-2007647/
6. Big Data (H2)
The best use of technology can help in growing a small business largely. Using Big data is one of the best ways to do it. Big data is useful in helping businesses comprehend and take action on the environmental effects of their operations. Businesses are now trying their best to understand the complete impact of their operation from the very beginning to the end with the help of Big Data. And they are taking enough actions to minimize the impact on the environment.
Source- https://www.pexels.com/photo/abstract-art-blur-bright-373543/
7. Blockchain
Blockchain-based solutions let businesses sell a product while considering the carbon emissions it creates. As blockchain allows businesses to assess the impact of their products transparently, businesses can take necessary actions to modify the product. Big organizations must support the innovators in the low-to-middle income countries who are developing new blockchain solutions. Hence, they can adopt those blockchain solutions to deal with environmental sustainability issues. This is necessary to realize blockchain’s potentials for environmental sustainability.
Source- https://pixabay.com/photos/block-chain-personal-shaking-hands-2850276/
8. Automation
Automation, especially Robotic Process Automation, is now being adopted by companies to build greener factories and a healthier environment. Businesses have eventually realized that ‘smart manufacturing’, led by automation, will help in building a more efficient workplace which can be both safer for the labors and more profitable for the owners.
Automation helps increase the productivity, flexibility, and accuracy of the manufacturing process. Businesses can also save the cost with the help of automation. On the other hand, customers can buy the product at a reduced rate. A lower price of products and an updated manufacturing process that leads to favorable ecological impact make the company more popular among customers.
Source- https://pixabay.com/photos/success-curve-arrow-turn-on-2917048
9. 3D Printing
The way organizations make products and handle inventory have been largely changed by 3D printing. 3D printing allows businesses, especially in industries like manufacturing, automotive, construction, medical devices, etc., to have the most efficient production process. This leads to a need for less amount of raw materials and eventually lesser waste. As this technology helps in maintaining lesser warehouse carbon footprint, organizations become more environment-friendly. Thus, 3D printing helps businesses save costs and also improve the environment.
Source- https://pixabay.com/photos/3d-printer-printing-technology-791205/
Takeaway Points
Today, almost all business owners include sustainable practices in their operations. Technological advancements help organizations solidify their commitment to green business practices. The top technology updates that can help sustainable businesses to grow, as discussed in this blog, are:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cloud computing
- Internet of Things
- Mobile applications
- Augmented reality
- Big data
- Blockchain
- Automation
- 3D printing
Take your cue from the information provided above to grow your own sustainable business.
Patrick Austin is a Software Engineer at a reputed MNC. He has also worked with many famous brands and currently working with MyAssignmenthelpCompany. He also runs his podcast, where he provides crucial insights into the latest technology. When he is not busy with work, he likes to read and write.