Sep 19 2023
At first glance, automation seems to offer several environmental benefits. Automated systems often operate with superior efficiency compared to their human-run counterparts. This increased efficiency can lead to substantial energy savings. For example, automated machinery in a manufacturing plant can reduce waste by precisely controlling the amount of raw material used or the energy consumed during operation.
The trend towards automation may also reduce the need for physical transportation and the associated greenhouse gas emissions. The advent of digital automation technologies enables numerous tasks to be managed remotely, decreasing the need for travel. Principles of the 4IR (fourth industrial revolution) such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and system connectivity play a significant role in this remote orchestration of resources, indirectly contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.
However, it's also essential to recognize the less obvious, potentially harmful environmental impacts automation may have. The manufacture and disposal of automation equipment can create significant environmental issues. Manufacturing automated systems often involve the use of metals and synthetic materials, which can strain natural resources and contribute to pollution. Additionally, when these machines reach the end of their useful life, their disposal poses another set of environmental challenges, particularly if they contain harmful materials that are not appropriately handled.
Furthermore, while automation may decrease the need for some types of physical transportation, the energy needed to power up these automatons and servers could also have a significant environmental impact. With the digital age boom, data centers worldwide consume an increasing amount of electricity, contributing to an overall increase in energy usage.
Recognizing the environmental implications of automation is the first step towards mitigating its potential harms. While automation offers many benefits to productivity and efficiency, these should not be achieved at the cost of the environment. Sustainable development and eco-design principles must be incorporated into the configuration of automated systems.
Automation technology is still evolving, allowing us opportunities to make meaningful changes for its environmental implications. By acknowledging and understanding the environmental impact of automation, businesses can make informed decisions when adopting such technologies and contribute to a more sustainable, eco-friendly future.
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