Practical Sustainability Strategies, 2nd Edition

CHAPTER 13Emergent Technologies for Adaptation

There has been an increased attention toward sustainability-oriented innovation and research studies the past 10–15 years. The sustainability challenges from energy supply to climate change and huge financial needs in terms of infrastructure renewal and expansion are coupled with strong path dependencies [1, 2].

Already established technologies are connected with rigid user practices, lifestyles, and business models that make it difficult for radical changes in those areas, as they do not cope with the prevailing sustainability challenges. Emerging technologies, which are based on biotechnology, nanotechnology, and information and communication technology (ICT) systems can shape the future of a variety of industries and disrupt entirely others. In many cases, these technologies will define and restructure these sectors. In return these technologies will spark debates and changes in regulatory frameworks and corporate models.

According to the McKinsey report on sustainability [3], deploying current innovative technologies could improve resource productivity in energy, land, water, and materials up to 30% of total 2030 demand. The majority of these opportunities occur in developing countries and could save US$2.9 trillion in 2030. Emergent technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Blockchain, and Augmented Reality (AR) provide certain operational efficiencies that can transform globally the manufacturing, industrial ...