8 Ways IoT Contributes to Sustainability
IoT has the potential to improve sustainability and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The fundamental idea of IoT is that devices and items are able to be connected, enabling a large variety of new opportunities and possibilities including a more supportive stance for sustainable development. In their sustainability guide for the IoT industry, the World Economic Forum explained: “Our analysis shows that 84% of IoT deployments are currently addressing, or have the potential to address, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”.
Although the full capabilities for IoT are yet to be discovered these are the ways that we can use IoT to contribute to environmental sustainability.
1. Water monitoring
Water scarcity is a problem facing around 3 billion people worldwide. Any solutions, no matter how small, can help. The current applications of water monitoring detect faults, hence reducing any wasted water. They also oversee water quality and monitor water levels to improve water scarcity.
2. Air quality tracking
The use of sensors to measure air quality can be highly beneficial in order to identify the key causes of pollution in specific areas. This knowledge is instrumental to develop strategies to reduce and eliminate pollution and ensure a clean area for your business.
3. Connected transport
The use of IoT in transportation has already become widespread and is developing further daily. This has enabled more streamlined and personalized transportation experiences. IoT in transportation can also be useful for business, as distribution channels can be monitored and routes optimized to avoid traffic. This ensures that goods reach their destination efficiently.
4. Agriculture probes
Using monitors in several agriculture settings allow for healthier and better quality produce. This not only ensures that the consumers are eating healthy goods but can help farmers to be successful and mitigate losses.
5. Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology is growing in popularity and is also being applied to various settings such as stores, offices and restaurants. This is to increase convenience, improve safety, as well as help to reduce energy consumption and costs.
6. Temperature tracking and control
The use of thermometers in a multitude of equipment is quickly increasing. The use of IoT can enforce temperature regulation in facilities. Historical data and temperature control enables the reduction of energy used. It also allows the storage of goods, especially those that are perishable, to be improved which leads to lessened waste.
7. Equipment optimization
The use of various sensors in devices and equipment to collect data of usage, performance and capabilities allows for optimization of these items. This ensures they are working at the most advantageous rate and increase equipment lifespan. Replacements are then less frequent, which reduces the various materials used to produce these items as well. This, in turn, means that the harmful products that are released in the disposal of the equipment such as HFCs are also reduced.
8. Inspire New Behavior
Another aspect that may be overlooked is that IoT can be used to motivate employees to engage in behavior that helps to be more sustainable. Employees become more aware of the outcomes and results that can be achieved through certain actions.
Energybox offers technology that can help reduce energy consumption, food waste and increase equipment lifespan, as well as achieve a more sustainable culture amongst your workforce. Learn more about how Energybox can automate your operations and promote sustainability for your business here: https:https://www.energybox.com/solutions/
Sources:
https://disruptionhub.com/5-ways-iot-supports-sustainability/
https://www.ecomena.org/internet-of-things/
