Whether it is the Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, or the use of data analysis in the logic of edge computing, digital technology offers powerful prospects for traditional industries and sectors to reduce their environmental impact. Highlight information technology for green solutions that enable environmental transformation.
The report published by IDC last July is clear, at least 55.9 billion devices connected to the Internet of Things will exist in the world by 2025. The data generated by these items will be 79.4 Zb (Zettabit). Approximately 30% will be installed in industrial environments.
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) uses object-oriented systems that are networked and able to interact with each other. These devices are equipped with sensors that collect data by monitoring the production context in which they operate. The stored information is then analyzed and processed, which contributes to the improvement of business operations. In the industrial field, connected objects often operate from devices at the edge of networks (peripheral computing). Here the information that is constantly collected provides data to improve the methods of operation.
In addition to predictive maintenance, IoT allows for improved energy performance in buildings, optimization of public power grids and real-time management of electrical distribution systems. These applications allow data analysis and implementation of effective solutions directly on where this information is produced. In the same logic, the development of digital twins, virtual replicas of physical assets, allows the modeling of infrastructures, systems and devices thanks to the digital reproduction of real contexts.
Better data collection
Therefore, there are many techniques that approach the development of the industry with an ecological logic. Whether it is connected devices, sensor technologies, hardware, or simply applications, it provides better data collection. Thus, the effectiveness of the sustainable development strategy will depend on the quality and clarity of the applied data policy.
In concrete terms, the supply chain can account for up to 90% of a company’s environmental impact. According to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers, AI could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 4% by 2030. Another study conducted by Deloitte in March 2021 highlights that one in three consumers adapts their purchases according to environmental impact for products or brands. That’s all it takes to convince companies of the need to adapt their strategy to sustainable development.
Thanks to data, companies can thus bring new automation into their production chain. Data analysis allows simulating changes in demand. But also to facilitate task planning, production tool maintenance planning and reduce the risk of errors.
Artificial intelligence makes environmental transformation a reality
Another related technology, artificial intelligence can contribute to environmental transformation. Provided that it is based on reliable data analysis. Some companies are pushing technology in the field of flow optimization. Then we talk about more economical management of fuel supplies. But also goods for wholesale distribution, last mile distribution of e-commerce, supply and production within the factories themselves.
The developed tools are able to calculate in detail the production of finished products according to many parameters. Then we talk about sales forecasts, performance of production lines or storage capacities … Effective use in the automotive industry as well as in the food or heavy industries.
Algorithms also make it possible to develop offers in terms of transportation planning. This last area intersects with a wide range of possibilities. It is now possible to put in place maintenance work, forecast traffic regulation in real time and many other possibilities …
Digitization and Digitization: Together for industry
Recently, several digital giants have gathered in the Software Republic. The initiative should allow these actors to think about tomorrow’s mobility. So it is a question of creating a new truly open ecosystem dedicated to the smart and sustainable mobility of industries.
Among the areas that have been particularly exploited by Software Republic are artificial intelligence, big data, and cybersecurity. But also semiconductors and communication. By combining the knowledge and skills of each, the ambition is to make this group a catalyst for innovation of European rank. All in the interest of reducing the industries’ carbon footprint.
Among the sectors in which the new organization will operate is smart systems. But also simulation and data management systems, and the energy ecosystem. The first of them should make it possible to make the connection between the car more robust. Just like all of its digital environment. The second part should make it possible to improve flows to territories and companies. Ingredients that perfectly align with the strong ecological transformation logic.
Olivier Robillard