Wireless networking, 5G, and sustainability intersect as organizations work to both increase mobility and protect the environment
When enterprises consider climate action technology, their first thoughts often center on IoT technologies, remote management, and other use cases that help reduce carbon footprint. But what about connecting those technologies? In today’s increasingly mobile world, 5G and sustainability are inextricably linked.
The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry holds a pivotal position in facilitating the climate action requirements set up by investors and regulators. According to Ericsson research, this industry has the potential to reduce totally global industrial emissions by 15%, if not more. To meet the goal of keeping the temperature rise below 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, businesses have to step up and take a holistic approach that covers their whole supply chains. It means setting climate targets that aim for Net Zero, and enterprises all over the globe are starting to realize just how important their role is in reducing their impact on the environment. One climate action technology that emerges as a key enabler is Wireless Wide Area Networking (WWAN).
What is a Wireless WAN?
WWAN is a technology that enables wireless connectivity over a wide area using cellular networks. It allows devices and systems to communicate and exchange data without the need for physical wired connections. WWAN helps enterprises be more agile and flexible, providing reliable connectivity, and also serves as climate action technology that provides a variety of benefits that promote sustainability and support the transition to greener practices. Let’s explore some of the ways WWAN can assist enterprises in their pursuit of 5G and sustainability.
How does WWAN help enterprises achieve their sustainability goals?
Reduced cabling and infrastructure
WWAN uses 5G and LTE to provide reliable connectivity, eliminating the need for wired infrastructure in many cases. By removing the physical needs of traditional networks, enterprises can reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing the deployment of cables and infrastructure. WWAN also enables businesses to expand their operations without extensive infrastructure investment, thereby avoiding unnecessary construction and associated environmental costs.
Real-time IoT monitoring and optimization
By deploying wireless sensors, enterprises can collect data on energy usage, emissions, water consumption, resource usage, and more. This valuable information allows businesses to optimize their operations and identify opportunities for energy efficiency, waste reduction, and beyond. For instance, manufacturing plants can monitor and control energy-intensive processes, reducing energy waste and emissions, while logistics companies can optimize routes to minimize fuel consumption and emissions.
Remote asset management and maintenance
With cloud-managed 5G routers in place, enterprises can remotely monitor and manage their assets, such as machinery, vehicles, and infrastructure. This capability reduces the need for IT and maintenance teams to travel, resulting in decreased fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with on-site inspections and maintenance. Real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance enabled by WWAN also contribute to the growth of climate action technology and the efficient use of resources by identifying potential issues before they escalate, which minimizes downtime and maximizes asset lifespan.
Energy management
The integration of WWAN with smart energy management systems revolutionizes the way enterprises consume and manage energy. By connecting energy-consuming devices and systems, WWAN enables real-time data exchange, allowing businesses to optimize energy consumption, peak load management, and demand-response programs. For instance, office buildings can use wireless connectivity to adjust temperature and lighting based on occupancy, reducing energy waste.
These are a few examples of how WWAN, 5G, and sustainability can align within enterprises. These WWAN use cases empower businesses to reduce their carbon footprint, optimize resource usage, and embrace sustainable practices. Together we must adapt and modernize to reach Net Zero by 2050.