The demand for sustainable technology is higher than ever in a time of rising environmental concerns. As we move through 2023, the world witnesses steadfast proactive developments to reduce the negative consequences of human exertion on the environment. 

Against the backdrop of increasing environmental awareness and the need for sustainable practises, Gartner recently revealed that sustainability is a pervasive concern across all strategic technology trends for 2023. The report also projected that by 2025, 50% of CIOs will have performance metrics directly linked to measuring the sustainability efforts of their IT organisations. It highlights the growing recognition of the importance of sustainability in the tech sector and plays an important role in shaping an organisation’s future.

The field of sustainable technology is rapidly evolving as it tries to harness the full potential of green solutions and explore its nuanced uses. This article explores the significant trends and game-changing innovations that will define the sustainable technology landscape in 2023 and provides insights into how these cutting-edge solutions will help yield an environmentally sound society. 

What is Sustainable Technology?

Sustainable technology is simply technology that seeks to prioritise the sustainability of the environment. It is difficult to achieve the delicate balance that this domain strives to maintain between environmental protection and optimal economic growth. Experts in the field are using sustainable technology to minimise resource consumption while simultaneously prioritising society’s well-being in an attempt to counteract the detrimental effects caused by depleting non-renewable natural resources.

Why is Sustainability in Technology Necessary?

The idea of sustainability in technology is based on three key ideas:

1. Environmental impact 

Sustainability in technology focuses on minimising or mitigating the negative environmental impact caused by technological advancements. This includes reducing carbon emissions, energy consumption, waste generation, and pollution. Sustainable technology promotes eco-friendly practises and renewable resources to ensure long-term environmental preservation.

2. Resource efficiency 

Another important aspect of sustainability in technology is maximising resource efficiency. This involves designing and implementing technologies optimising resource utilisation, such as water, energy, and materials. By employing efficient processes, technologies can minimise waste and maximise the utilisation of available resources, contributing to sustainable practises.

3.Social responsibility

Sustainability in technology goes beyond environmental considerations and encompasses social responsibility. It focuses on the importance of equitable access to technology and digital inclusion, as well as the positive role it can play in society. Furthermore, sustainable technologies address social challenges while simultaneously closing digital divides and encouraging inclusivity for the greater well-being of communities and individuals alike.

Key Sustainable Technological Endeavours of 2023

Following are a few of the most significant advances in environmental sustainability that businesses may look forward to in 2023. 

1. Shaping a customisable world

Soon, our surroundings will significantly change towards a modifiable state, enabling us to alter objects, people, and living things. With the development and assistance of nanotechnology, we can create new materials with extraordinary properties, like water resistance and self-recovery capabilities. While CRISPR- Cas9 gene editing technology has been around for a while, its capabilities are expected to advance in 2023, enabling people to “edit nature” by changing DNA sequences. 

We can replace certain living genes with new ones, which gives us incomparable control over the hereditary composition of living things. This discovery has wide-ranging effects that address anything from DNA abnormalities and food aversions to refining agricultural health and changing human features like eye or hair colour. 

2. Green technology breakthroughs 

With the incredible developments in green technology, the world is actively tackling the problem of carbon emissions and climate catastrophe in 2023. An important energy source with low greenhouse gas emissions is green hydrogen, which takes centre stage in this context. 

Decentralised power networks have gained popularity, supplying communities with small-scale power generators and storehouse devices that guarantee a constant source of electricity. These improvements can drastically reduce carbon footprints while democratising access to electricity universally, bringing us one step closer to a green and sustainable future. 

3. Eco-friendly deliveries

The boost in the use of delivery vehicles during the pandemic has raised carbon emissions, together with the spike in internet sales. In response, business leaders proactively embrace eco-friendly delivery strategies, which will become a significant sustainability trend in 2023. 

To lessen their environmental effect, businesses are switching to electric vehicles (EVs), drones, and cargo bikes. They realise how much the last phases of shipping and delivery contributed to carbon footprints.

General Motors has made history by establishing “BrightDrop,” a firm that uses cutting-edge technology to offer all-electric first- and last-mile products and services. Reputable businesses like FedEx and Walmart have already included eco-friendly delivery services in their daily operations.

4. AI and data-driven technologies

Harnessing data and cloud technologies are essential for a successful sustainable future. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as an indispensable technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. Fields, including precision farming, weather forecasting, disaster preparedness and response, among many others, can all utilise AI for enhanced efficiency.

A PwC analysis claims that AI can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 4% globally by 2030. Google’s AI engine supplies government organisations, academics, and researchers with helpful information to improve climate resilience. Businesses and retailers may evaluate their carbon footprints and take advantage of their benefits with greater information access.

5. Low-carbon construction 

A growing interest in low-carbon construction is being fostered by the pressing need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable alternatives are essential since traditional structures substantially increase global emissions. Low-carbon structures emphasise energy efficiency, produce their electricity using solar panels or other forms of renewable energy resources and use environmentally friendly materials like hemp and bamboo to emit as little carbon as possible. 

Low-carbon buildings must be adopted as construction demand rises to create a more environmentally friendly future. They play a crucial role in reducing climate change and fostering sustainable development because of their positive environmental effects.

Conclusion

The significance of sustainable technology cannot be stressed enough as the world struggles with growing environmental issues. To prevent climate change and lessen its negative effects on the environment, cleaner and more effective technologies must be adopted. 

With the help of these cutting-edge innovations, businesses will be capable of increasing gains, reducing pitfalls, and satisfying changing client requirements, paving the way for a more sustainable and successful future.