Share this article
Share this article
Technology is how we create wealth, how we cure diseases, how we'll build an environment that's sustainable and also gives people the capacity to pull more out of this world and still leave it better than when they found it.
Dean Kamen Tweet
Sustainable technology describes innovation that considers natural resources and promotes social and economic development. The innovations are aimed at reducing the environmental impact and creating sustainable products for society.Â
Sustainability in technology refers to 3 main aspects of the products,
The technology enables a shift from non-renewable resources to renewable resources or non-biodegradable materials to degradable materials in the production cycle. The technology could also enable the transition from extractive ecosystems to renewing and restoring ones.
The next element to consider is whether the technology improves efficiency, reduces energy utilization, and limits the usage of materials. These three actions are all signs of sustainable technology.
The technology prevents emissions and negative environmental impacts.
Furthermore, the life cycle sustainability assessment can be used to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impact of a product throughout its life cycle. The life cycle sustainability analysis would help decision makers identify the positive and negative effects of the innovation and promote sustainable technology.
Sustainable technology reduces the negative environmental impact of technology. It prevents the degradation and contamination of the environment. Increasing temperatures and climate change highlight the importance of the adoption of cleaner technology.Â
Sustainable technology has the potential to transform businesses. Such innovative solutions are important for businesses due to the following reasons.
Innovations offer new ways to operate and simplify workflows. By integrating this sustainable technology, companies would be able to utilize resources in an efficient manner, thereby saving costs and improving their bottom line.
Sustainable technology can help businesses in reducing their business risks. The shift from non-renewable energy to renewable energy sources would guarantee the availability of resources and continuity of supply chains.Â
Consumers recognize the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) norms and are demanding greater accountability from companies. Businesses would need to adapt to evolving consumer needs. Â
The advent of electric vehicles was initially held up by the lack of charging ports and inefficient batteries. Electric trucks and buses that were earlier expensive can now be produced at scale and lower costs. Moreover, efficient electric batteries would help in the adoption of electric buses in the public transportation systems, and electric trucks to create sustainable supply chains. The shift from fossil fuels to clean energy would reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
LED lighting will drastically reduce energy consumption in the coming years. Further advancements in high-quality LED lights will improve energy efficiency without compromising on energy consumption.
Carbon capture and storage technology allow companies to capture carbon at the source, compress it and move it to a suitable storage area. Carbon capture technology can not only reduce carbon dioxide emissions but can also reduce CO2 in the atmosphere through direct air capture. Developing the uses of stored carbon will encourage adoption and make the sector more profitable.Â
Innovating financing and large-scale production of solar home systems can drive down costs and make solar power accessible to individuals and families. Developing countries have an opportunity to provide electricity to a large number of people while relying on renewable energy.Â
Hydrogen-powered cells will play a major role in the shift to cleaner energy. Hydrogen-powered fuel cells are already being used in Japan, Germany, and California. Hydrogen along with a wide range of other renewables could be used for long-distance transportation of goods.Â
The list is merely an illustration of new opportunities in sustainable technology. Companies could explore new opportunities and expand their businesses by focusing on innovations in the sustainable technologies sector.