Climate change continues to be a key concern for many of us, and it’s important that we all play our part in reducing our carbon footprint in our day-to-day lives, and in our businesses. Did you know, 25% of the energy consumed in the EU is by the manufacturing industry [1]? This represents the largest carbon footprint of any sector in the region.[2] So, what can we do to tackle this?
Connected Internet of Things (IoT) devices can help improve efficiency and reduce the footprint of businesses, such as those in the manufacturing sector. From enabling remote access allowing businesses to manage on site equipment remotely, to IoT solutions designed with sustainability in mind, here are four ways you can save energy and reduce your carbon footprint with connected IoT devices.
1) Manage onsite equipment remotely.
Wireless solutions can provide remote access across manufacturing sites to enable experts and field technicians to securely repair, maintain and service on site equipment. Not only can this reduce response and repair costs by providing real-time insights but it can also help to reduce the number of onsite visits needed each year, helping reduce the carbon footprint of our businesses and, depending on the specific scenario, reducing number of unplanned site visits for a qualified technician to the site.
2) Increase energy efficiency across facilities.
Businesses typically use more energy than residential buildings. In fact, non-residential buildings account for more than 55% of global energy consumption. Despite this, most business premises are inefficient and energy waste is a real problem. [3] Using IoT solutions, we can create smart buildings, with centralized and automated environmental controls that monitor water use and temperature, among other data points. This can reduce energy costs and help businesses to meet their sustainability goals.
3) Sustain renewable energy with connected IoT devices
In 2021, 22% of the energy consumed in the EU was generated from renewable sources, roughly the same level as in 2020. [4]
IoT solutions can help Distribution Grid and Renewables operators to remotely resolve machine failures, monitor asset health and securely distribute clean energy with maximum efficiency through standardized networks and protocols. [5]
4) Circular economy with connected IoT devices
Many IoT devices incorporate circularity throughout their lifecycle, from sustainable packaging, to optimizing energy efficiency when not in use, like the Cisco IR1101 resulting in a 35-45% reduction in energy consumption (varying on the load). Our products can be reused, remanufactured, and resold via Cisco’s Takeback and Reuse and Cisco Refresh programs. [5]
We all have a part to play. Technology can be a driver for reducing energy consumption. Transitioning to circular IT with Cisco Refresh and Cisco Green Pay can lay the foundation for organization’s sustainability journey. By taking these simple steps, your business can reduce negative impacts and support sustainability.
[1] Dolge, K., Azis, R., Lund, P., Blumberga, D., (2021). Importance of Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing Industries for Climate and Competitiveness [pdf]. Sciendo. Available: https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/rtuect-2021-0022 [02/10/2023]
[2] Eurostat. EU economy emissions in 2021: -22% since 2008 [article]. Available: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/ddn-20221221-1 [02/10/2023]
[3] Infraspeak. Benefits of Sustainable Facility Management for buildings, people, and organisations [blog]. Available: https://blog.infraspeak.com/benefits-of-sustainable-facility-management/ [02/10/2023]
[4] European Environment Agency. Share of energy consumption from renewable sources in Europe (8th EAP) [article]. Available: https://www.eea.europa.eu/ims/share-of-energy-consumption-from#:~:text=Among%20renewable%20energy%20sources%2C%20the,%25)%20and%20biogas%20(6%25 [02/10/2023]
[5] Butaney, V. (2021). Welcome to the IoT Industry Roundtable on IoT and the Circular Economy [blog]. Cisco Blogs. Available: https://blogs.cisco.com/internet-of-things/welcome-to-the-iot-industry-roundtable-on-iot-and-the-circular-economy [02/10/2023]
