Top 10 Ways Technology Can Improve Sustainability

Thanks to the rapidly changing world of technology, living a sustainable lifestyle is becoming a more attainable goal by the second. While it is easy to become discouraged by the current climate situation, allow this list of technologies to give you hope on the planet’s future.

1. Plant-Based Plastic

We are already seeing more sustainable ways businesses have been adjusting to restrictions on plastic. One possible solution is to implement plant-based plastic into our economy. Bio-plastic has already made its appearance in some countries as an acceptable alternative.

2. Electric Vehicles
Electric cars have never been available at such affordable costs. The new affordability of this technology is turning electric cars into something we see on a daily basis, making it easier to switch to these energy-efficient solutions.

3. Solar Glass
Solar glass is a window material able to catch and convert the sun’s energy into electricity. Big strides are being made to ensure both a high efficiency and transparency rate with these windows. According to studies done by Michigan State, the amount of window space the United States already has would be enough to power 40% of the country with this product.

4. Batteries
While batteries are not a new terminology, efforts are being made to cut the cost and increase storage capacity. This would result in businesses being less wasteful in the ways they store and use power.

5. Smart Homes
Smart home devices make it easier for us to ensure we are only using power when needed. Not only can these devices be used in households, they can also be implemented in businesses, which would significantly decrease energy consumption.

6. Carbon Capture
Present since 2017, CO2 capture plants work to separate carbon dioxide from the gases produced in our climate. These harmful gases would instead be transported through pipelines and stored in rock formations miles underground.

7. Environmental Monitoring
The government can now use drones and other technologies to monitor whether companies are following environmental regulations. The goal is to ensure certain standards are met in order to protect the planet.

8. Indoor Farming
Indoor farms can use climate control technology in order to produce crops year-round while also decreasing the amount of land used. Additionally, indoor farming eliminates the need of potentially harmful pesticides, which makes these indoor crops overall healthier for both the environment and humans.

9. Graphene
Graphene, a thin but mighty layer of graphite, is now being introduced as a solution to many different issues our planet is facing. This highly conductive material could play a huge factor in the planet becoming more green, as it is already predicted to surpass the efficiency of steel, bronze and iron.

10. Going Completely Digital
Going digital has significantly reduced the amount of paper and other materials we use. Storing files online, sending emails and having QR codes instead of physical menus are just a few of the ways businesses have cut back on production.

These technologies play a vital role in helping the planet reverse some of the damage done throughout the past centuries. It is the role of businesses and individuals to implement these technologies into their daily lives to improve overall sustainability.

Article originally published on Medium