Sustainable technology ranks among the Top 10 strategic technology trends for 2024, according to Gartner’s annual list of market segments to watch. And as we barrel deeper into the year, the buzz around sustainability is only growing. And, rightly so! With climate change knocking on our door, innovation in sustainability is crucial. So, let’s dive into five sustainability technologies that are set to make headlines this year.
1. Renewable energy advancements
Renewable energy is perhaps the most promising field when it comes to sustainable tech in 2024. Advancements in solar technology have led to higher efficiency photovoltaic cells that are not just functional but also aesthetic. This means we can start looking at more individualized use of solar panels. Similarly, the wind energy sector has seen massive improvements with larger, efficient turbines and offshore wind farms that can make use of ocean winds.
And as these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect to see a notable cost reduction in their production and an increased integration of these sources into mainstream energy grids. This enables more efficient distribution and utilization of renewable energy.
2. EVs
The transportation sector is another area where we can expect to see big leaps in 2024. The rise of EVs already marks a significant shift towards cleaner, greener modes of transportation. Most major car manufacturers are already entering the market with their best selling models now also available in EV variants, some even offering SUVs that run on electricity instead of gas. But while it’s great and cool to see an increased use of electric vehicles for personal use, the real impact of this technology can be seen in public transportation — with more and more countries across the globe, switching to cleaner modes of public transport. From metros to buses and trains, this shift truly stands to impact pollution and carbon levels in the environment.
3. Carbon Capture
Speaking of carbon levels, the current global average concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is 421 ppm as of May 2022 (0.04%). This is an increase of 50% since the start of the Industrial Revolution. Carbon Capture technologies can be a game-changer in reducing global carbon concentration in the atmosphere. . Think of them as giant vacuums, sucking CO2 right out of the air. It’s like giving the planet a much-needed spa day, detoxing it from all the carbon we’ve been pumping into the atmosphere. The twist for 2024 is that these technologies are getting sleeker, more efficient, and yes, more affordable. From being housed in massive industrial sites to now fitting into smaller spaces, carbon capture is on its way to becoming a backyard essential.
4. Sustainable Agriculture tech
The global population is set to reach 10 billion by 2050 and this makes sustainable agriculture techniques more important than ever. Innovative techniques can transform how food is grown, enhance efficiency and reduce wastage. This year, we already have breakthroughs in precision farming that leverage drones, satellite imagery, and data analytics to monitor crops and optimize resource use, alongside automated machinery that streamlines farming operations.
Meanwhile, aquaponics is emerging as a water-efficient technique, merging fish farming with hydroponics to cultivate crops sustainably. Beyond these methods, regenerative agriculture practices, including cover cropping, crop rotation, and agroforestry, are gaining traction for their ability to rejuvenate soil health, boost biodiversity, and sequester carbon.
These practices not only aim to meet the escalating food demands without exhausting natural resources but also support farmers’ livelihoods and rural development.
5. Eco-friendly AI and Big Data
AI offers significant prospects for economic, social, and environmental advancements but faces scrutiny over its energy demands, which challenge natural resource conservation. Sustainable AI strives to harness these benefits across various sectors while curbing its ecological footprint.
The shift towards decentralized AI and edge computing aims to lessen this impact by localizing processing, reducing data transmission needs, and cutting down on energy-intensive data center reliance. Recommendations for a more sustainable AI usage include adopting energy-efficient models, strategic workload management, clean power sourcing, and incorporating environmental assessments into AI strategies.
As we look forward to the rest of 2024, it’s clear that sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a lifestyle. And with advancements in renewable energy consultant, EVs, Carbon capture, sustainable agriculture and sustainable AI, it’s a lifestyle that’s becoming easier and cooler by the day. So, here’s looking forward to a year of innovation, inspiration, and, most importantly, action. Because when it comes to saving our planet, every bit helps—and it’s about time we all play our part.
