Clean Technology: An Overview

Technology is driving change across the planet, and it’s only going to progress further. It’s usually argued whether the change has been for the good or the bad. This where Clean Tech comes in…

Clean Technology is a field of technology focussed on reducing our impact on the environment.

As technology advances, so has the development of clean tech infrastructure. There have been continuous studies on what we can do as a society to turn back the clock on greenhouse emissions. Since the 1980s, technology has been introduced to reduce the environmental impact of civilians across the world.

History

1980s > First commercially available solar panels produced

1990s > The first large-scale wind farms are developed?

2000s > The first hybrid and electric vehicles hit the market?

2010s > Smart grid systems and energy efficient technology sees significant growth

2020s > More companies and governments investing in clean energy

So how is technology driving clean energy?

Electric Vehicles > One of the more-recent advances in cleantech. Electric vehicles are more environmentally friendly and energy efficient compared to traditional vehicles.

Smart Cities > Smart cities optimise digital technology to reduce waste and improve quality of life. Usually, a smart city will consist of multiple sensors, cameras and streetlights which are connected and can be monitored to control all aspects.?

Energy Efficient > Technologies such as smart grid systems, building automated systems and energy-efficient appliances are helping reduce the amount of energy wasted.

Renewable Energy > Solar, Wind and Hydropower Technologies are becoming increasingly cost-competitive which is helping to reduce the world’s dependence on fossil fuels.

So, what will the future look like?

Cleantech is expected to continue to expand as we try and reach the Net Zero Paris agreement. It’s expected that energy storage will improve along with carbon capture and storage, meaning carbon emissions will be stored underground to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Green buildings are also becoming more popular; sustainable materials are becoming trendy both in the architecture world and fashion industry which is contributing to a more circular economy.?

What do you think will be the next advancement in cleantech?

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