The relationship between environment and technology has long been at the centre of a complex and controversial debate. While progress has led to a strong environmental impact, many innovations can now contribute to sustainability and the so-called ecological transition.
A classic example of environmentally harmful technology is the car. Over the years, internal combustion engines have caused high levels of air pollution, especially around cities. Today, however, the electric car is a candidate as a green solution, capable of drastically reducing CO2 emissions.
Even in the field of industrial production, we see how old polluting methods (e.g. waste incineration) are gradually being replaced by cleaner, state-of-the-art technologies. The green economy, which aims to reuse and recycle materials, is already partly a reality.
Read on to learn more about environment and technology. Together we will try to understand how businesses and citizens can contribute to the green transition. We will also provide you with some concrete of cutting-edge examples, sustainable solutions for the environment.
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Technology applied to the environment: 4 concrete examples
Technology, understood as the application of scientific and engineering knowledge to create tools, processes and machinery that facilitate certain human activities, plays a crucial role in the game with the environment.
Here are some examples of virtuous technology making a difference:
1. Smart grids and renewable energy
Smart grids are electricity distribution systems based on the use of AI for more efficient energy management, which reduces waste and optimises its distribution. Combined with renewable energy sources (in this case solar and wind power), they represent the future of responsible energy consumption.
2. Internet of Things (IoT) for energy monitoring
The acronym IoT denotes the transfer of data and information on wireless networks (Wi-Fi) between intelligent, i.e. AI-equipped, devices. The IoT applies to a multitude of areas:
- smart city;
- smart building (which we will return to shortly);
- smart home;
- smart factory;
- smart cars;
- smart lifecycle;
- smart retail;
- wearable devices;
- smart health.
The IoT makes it possible to control household appliances remotely and to monitor spending (smart metering) on water, electricity and gas, resulting in significant savings on bills. Smart cities, on the other hand, reduce waste, provide more efficient public services and higher quality infrastructure.
3. Precision agriculture or agriculture 4.0
Agriculture is one of the oldest activities practised by man, but also one of the most exposed to the challenges of today. Climate change, population growth, resource scarcity, demand for food quality and safety are just some of the factors that urgently require a sustainable transformation of the agri-food sector.
Precision agriculture or agriculture 4.0 or agritech is the latest stage in the evolution of the field. It’s based on the use of AI to optimise agricultural processes, increase productivity and reduce environmental impact.
Furthermore, through the use of sensors, drones, satellites and robots, agriculture 4.0 can monitor soil and crop conditions, predict the weather, optimise irrigation and fertilisation and even prevent plant diseases.
4. Intelligent buildings and LEED certification
LEED certification (which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a voluntary programme to promote the sustainability of buildings. LEED certification can be applied to any type of building, whether commercial or residential, and covers its entire life cycle, from design to construction.
LEED certification assesses the following key factors
- energy and water savings
- reduction of CO2 emissions;
- improvement of the ecological quality of interiors;
- materials and resources used;
- choice of construction site.
Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the certification is based on a system of awarding ‘credits’ for each requirement. The sum of the credits determines 4 levels: basic, gold, silver and platinum. In Italy, the Green Building Council Italia (GBC ITALIA) introduced the LEED standard in April 2010.
Technology and environment: a necessary combination today
Technology is a valuable ally in the fight to protect the environment and safeguard the planet. An approach that integrates technology and the environment, without demonising progress but using it responsibly, is in our view the way to a more harmonious future.
Let us always remember that every small daily action counts and that it is our responsibility to preserve the environment for future generations.
If you are looking for partners for green projects, contact IPPO Engineering. We have been working on environmental sustainability, green economy and ecological transition for years. Contact us by filling out the contact form or call +390954683879. Our team of experts is at your disposal.