Researching sustainable technologies: what can companies do to become more sustainable?

1. The role of sustainable technologies in business operations

Sustainable technologies are innovations that help reduce environmental impact. These can include renewable energy sources, energy-efficient production processes, circular economy concepts and waste reduction. For companies, such technologies are crucial not only to comply with regulations, but also to realise a positive impact on their reputation and profitability.

A report by McKinsey shows that companies that are committed to sustainability often show better financial performance than their unsustainable competitors . In addition, a Harvard Business Review study indicate that consumers are increasingly willing to pay more for products from sustainable companies .

2. Renewable energy: from solar panels to wind turbines

One of the most accessible and effective ways for businesses to become more sustainable is by switching to renewable energy sources. Solar panels and wind turbines are the most common options, but depending on location and business activities, other technologies, such as hydropower and geothermal energy, may also be of interest.

A study by the International Energy Agency (IEA) shows that companies investing in solar energy can save an average of 20% on their energy costs . Examples of companies successful in this include Google and Apple, both of which use 100% of renewable energy in their data centres.

3. Improving energy efficiency with smart technology

Besides the transition to renewable energy, companies can make significant sustainability gains by making their energy consumption more efficient. Smart technologies, such as IoT sensors and AI-driven energy management programmes, allow companies to monitor and adjust their energy consumption in real time.

A study by the World Economic Forum shows that implementing smart energy management solutions can help companies use up to 30% less energy . Companies such as Siemens and Schneider Electric have made great strides in developing technologies that help companies optimise their energy efficiency.

4. Circular economy: promoting reuse and recycling

The circular economy is an economic model in which raw materials and products are reused and recycled for as long as possible, minimising waste production and the use of new raw materials. For companies, this means reviewing their production processes to use materials and products as efficiently as possible.

IKEA is an example of a company embracing a circular model. The Swedish furniture company has set ambitious targets to be fully circular by 2030. Research by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation shows that companies that implement circular models not only reduce their carbon footprint, but can also reduce the cost of raw materials and production by 50% .

5. Sustainable transport and logistics

Transport is one of the biggest contributors to CO2 emissions. Companies operating in the logistics sector can significantly reduce their environmental impact by investing in sustainable transport solutions. Electric vehicles, biofuels and optimising logistics networks are some of the ways companies can make their transport processes more sustainable.

A study by Transport & Environment shows that electric trucks have much lower long-term CO2 emissions than traditional diesel vehicles . In addition, smart logistics systems can help companies make their distribution processes more efficient, which is not only more sustainable but also saves costs.

6. Innovations in sustainable materials and production processes

Materials play a crucial role in the sustainability of products. Innovations in sustainable materials, such as bioplastics and recycled steel, allow companies to use less harmful materials in their production processes. In addition, techniques such as 3D printing can help minimise material waste.

According to a report by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), companies that switch to sustainable materials can make their manufacturing processes up to 40% more efficient . Nike is one of the companies actively pursuing this by using recycled materials in their footwear and apparel lines.

7. How businesses can embrace sustainable technologies

Embracing sustainable technologies starts with a thorough examination of the impact of the current business model. Companies should take a critical look at their energy consumption, resource use and transport processes. Conducting a sustainability audit can help identify the biggest bottlenecks here.

Next, it is important to set goals and invest in technologies that will help achieve those goals. This does not always have to be a large financial investment. Many sustainable technologies actually have a positive impact on a company's profitability in the long run.

Conclusion

Sustainability is no longer an option, but a necessity for companies that want to compete in today's market. By investing in sustainable technologies such as renewable energy, smart energy management solutions, circular economy concepts and sustainable materials, companies can not only reduce their environmental footprint, but also cut costs and improve their image.

Companies that embrace sustainability are investing not only in a better future for our planet, but also in their own success.