Shaping the Future at COP28

As we approach COP28, the world's attention is turning once again to the critical issue of climate change. This year’s conference is being held in Dubai and comes at a pivotal moment. Recent events like the alarming decrease in Antarctic Sea ice, the rise in global surface air temperatures, and the record-breaking heatwaves make it abundantly clear that we are in the midst of a climate crisis. This article explores the significance of COP28 and sheds light on the crucial role of the technology industry and the role of IoT in addressing this global challenge.

The Importance of COP28

COP, or the 'Conference of Parties,' is an essential global event that brings together leaders, ministers, and negotiators to confront climate change. It follows the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement, with a recent emphasis on limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. COP28 presents an opportunity to assess the state of our planet and set ambitious goals for the future, with a focus on climate finance, energy transition, and building resilience to climate change impacts.

Technology & Innovation at COP28

The technology industry will play a pivotal role at COP28, emphasising the importance of green digital solutions in driving climate action and achieving net-zero ambitions. The spotlight will be on groundbreaking technologies like Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT). Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the COP28 President-Designate, recently highlighted the significance of technology in realising the ambitions of the Paris Agreement and building a new economic development model that puts an end to emissions.

IoT Solutions in Addressing Climate Change

IoT-based solutions can have a significant impact on addressing climate change by achieving efficiencies such as reducing fuel consumption and energy use and lowering emissions. The very nature of IoT solutions makes them effective in improving sustainability and helping the environment. IoT-based solutions that deliver such efficiencies are strategically aligned with the goals of COP28 and the broader climate action agenda.

Here are some of the key areas where IoT solutions are making a difference:

Smart Waste Management

IoT-based smart management solutions effectively streamline waste management processes. By monitoring fill levels in real-time, they enable the efficient planning of waste collection routes, which in turn reduces fuel consumption, and lowers carbon emissions. This data-driven approach enhances the understanding of usage trends, preventing overflowing bins and the associated environmental health risks. Furthermore, optimised collection routes reduce the carbon footprint of local authorities and promote a cleaner environment. Find out more 

Intelligent Lighting

Through remote monitoring and control, IoT-based intelligent lighting solutions effectively optimise street lighting and create safer places. Valuable real-time data insights allow lighting to be managed more sustainably and lead to both energy and cost efficiencies, resulting in a lower carbon footprint, reduced light pollution and enhanced public services. Energy usage can be reduced by up to 30%, delivering both financial savings and environmental benefits. Find out more 

Air Quality Monitoring

Air Quality monitoring identifies air pollution risks in real-time allowing addressable action to quickly be taken to keep people and places safe and healthy. Empowering environmental teams to access and collate data more easily and frequently than traditional manual processes. Fast, frequent monitoring of air quality alerts local authorities to risks, enabling them to take proactive issue action, contributing to cleaner and healthier urban environments. Find out more 

COP28 is a crucial event for addressing climate change, with the technology industry playing a central role in achieving the goals set out in the Paris Agreement. IoT-based solutions, such as Smart Waste Management, Intelligent Lighting, and Air Quality Monitoring all contribute to these objectives. As we move forward, it is vital for tech companies to continue to develop and implement innovative solutions that align with the global effort to combat climate change and ensure a sustainable future for all.

If you would like to understand how Smart IoT-Based Solutions can improve your organisation and places, contact us at contact@north.tech