Many companies that made plans to achieve near- or net-zero emissions by 2030 have pushed back their targets. Why? Not because climate change is no longer a viable threat or emissions do not need to be reduced. Rather, achieving near-zero or net-zero emissions is not an easy endeavour. However, technology is proving to be a useful tool in getting emissions targets back on track for businesses, as this article will explain.
Why Businesses Struggle with Achieving Net Zero?
A few years ago, many of the world's companies made lofty pledges to reduce or eliminate their emissions. This was at a time when the environmental movement was just gaining momentum. However, experts were not fully aware of what it would take to dismantle established processes that have significant environmental impact. Fortunately, more research into what exactly it takes to achieve sustainability goals brings more effective tools to assist.
Many experts agree that renewed net-zero targets of 2050 are achievable if businesses use the tools at hand. These tools include artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and life cycle assessment software. These innovative solutions help businesses to reduce, track, and manage carbon emissions. They are not only helping organisations track their emissions but are also instrumental in devising strategies to minimise them. We will examine how each of these tools can help you to manage your business.
Artificial Intelligence
AI is perhaps the most innovative invention of modern times, and it's no wonder it has found applications in this space. AI is useful for achieving net-zero emissions because it brings immense data analysis and predictive capabilities. AI tools help businesses optimise energy usage, predict carbon output, and enhance operational efficiency. AI algorithms can analyse large volumes of data, identify patterns in energy consumption, and recommend optimisation strategies. For example, in manufacturing facilities, AI can monitor equipment and devise strategies for optimal operating efficiency.
AI can be programmed to work with target metrics like reducing wasted energy or reducing the overall demand for electricity. It also assists in optimising carbon capture and predicting the most efficient methods. These insights allow companies to implement more efficient CCS methods, directly contributing to net-zero goals.
The Internet of Things and Emissions Tracking
The internet is unfettered access to the global platform of information and communication. It is a key enabler of emissions tracking, altering businesses to get real-time data on energy usage, emissions, and other environmental factors. Connected devices are now integral to the infrastructure of industries ranging from manufacturing to transportation.
Businesses can measure emissions across an entire supply chain, with which businesses can identify specific areas of high carbon output. This level of detail enables targeted emission-reduction strategies. Thus, it is easier to achieve incremental reductions that add up over time.
Life Cycle Assessment Software
A life cycle assessment is perhaps the most important way to measure how a business's products affect the environment. In the same vein, LCA software is one of the most comprehensive tools for tracking the environmental impact of products. As the name suggests, this assessment looks at a product's impact from resource extraction to disposal. The purpose of this type of software is to enable companies to make more informed decisions about design, manufacturing, distribution, and recycling.
Measuring Emissions Throughout a Product's Life
LCA software provides a full picture of emissions associated with each phase of a product's life. It reveals a lot about what a business does to the environment via what it makes and sells. For instance, the production phase might have a high carbon footprint due to the energy required to manufacture raw materials. On the other hand, the distribution phase might contribute significantly to emissions due to transportation.
A company that makes electric cars would not be able to present itself as environmentally friendly just because its products do not directly burn fossil fuel. They have to consider mining the heavy metals and the production process of their vehicles. An LCA would also highlight the power source charging the vehicles while they are being used and what happens to the battery at the end of its life.
Thus, by identifying the highest-emission phases, companies can focus their efforts on reducing environmental impact where it matters most. With the insights gained from LCA tools, organisations can make strategic choices about product design and materials that minimise emissions. Merely choosing more sustainable raw materials goes a long way. When that is combined with streamlining the manufacturing process or using sustainable packaging, there is more success.
Making the Case for Utilising Software Tools in Achieving Net-Zero Emissions
Many governments are enacting stricter regulations around emissions and environmental impact. In addition, public perception of how companies impact the environment is ever-shifting. Thus, transparency is increasingly important for stakeholders, investors, and customers who are prioritising sustainability.
While AI, the Internet, and LCA software are each powerful on their own, they can deliver even greater benefits when integrated. With them, companies can work to achieve net zero within a set timeline. The role of technology in achieving net zero has never been more vital. Businesses can achieve this sustainability goal by harnessing the tools available to them.
