Planet earth is seeing one of its most critical times. From forest fires to ocean acidification and soaring temperatures to air pollution, global peril is rising at an alarming rate. To address these complex environmental trends, several researchers and ecologists around the world are now working together to find new and innovative ways to make the planet more sustainable. In the last few years, there’s been significant growth in the use and deployment of technology to transform the shape of the planet.
Many UK companies are using innovative business models and the latest technologies to enhance financial and environmental sustainability. Firms are attempting to use unique products and services intended to minimise environmental effects. Some of the unique technologies that businesses can use in hope to save the planet include:
Solar roof tiles
Recently the chief executive of Tesla, Elon Musk, announced the launch of solar roof tiles. Distinct from existing solar panels, these solar glass tiles look similar to typical roof tiles and come in a wide range of shapes and colours. Elon Musk claims that these solar tiles not only look great but also are efficient enough to generate electricity. These tiles have enhanced insulation and are more affordable than regular roofing tiles.
Vertical farming
With the increase in population, there is an increase in the demand for houses and other recreational buildings. The growing number of buildings has led to a scarcity of space for most densely-populated regions. To cope with this problem, ecologists have come up with vertical farming, commonly known as indoor farming. As this type of farming can be done in any building, it doesn’t need tractors to plough the land. Thus, there’s a reduction in fuel consumption and release of air pollutants. Additionally, vertical farming eradicates agricultural run-off, decreases the use of pesticides and water, and allows the production of crops throughout the year.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
Seeing the vast applications of AI, businesses around the world are using the latest AI technologies to trace and manage their carbon emissions. Heavy industries in the UK contribute up to a quarter of the country’s carbon footprint. To manage their carbon output, several heavy industries have introduced the latest low-emission technologies. Additionally, some UK industries have invested in robots and automation to make repetitive manufacturing processes more efficient. Furthermore, factories have also introduced smart software, which uses algorithms to switch off the least essential or non-essential machines when there’s a limited supply of renewable energy.
Hybrid cars
Recently, there’s been an increase in the number of vehicles internationally. This increase in the number of motors has led to an increase in the consumption of fuel, which further leads to the release of harmful pollutants in the air. With the help of technology, many automobile manufacturers have introduced cars which run on electricity or bio-fuels. Also termed ‘green cars’, these hybrid cars consume less fuel to cover a similar distance compared to a regular car.
Plastic energy
One of the most revolutionary sustainable technologies in the UK to prevent plastic pollution is the one introduced by Plastic Energy. The company claims to recycle the un-recyclable by transforming non-recyclable, end-of-life plastic waste into fresh feedstock to produce clean recycled plastic items or alternative low-carbon fuels. With the help of a patented chemical recycling process known as Thermal Anaerobic Conversion, the company converts contaminated, multi-layered and non-recyclable plastic items, such as plastic bags and plastic milk bottles. While the company is accustomed to fitting local requirements, it has simultaneously started working with local and international partners to expand its technology and prevent plastic pollution at an international level.
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