What does IoT have to do with sustainability?

What you cannot measure – How sensors and the IoT help improve sustainability

Without sustainability there is no future; without a future there is no future technology; and without future technology there is no sustainability. So where do you even start? Ideally in your own company!

With the help of sensors and IIoT, energy efficiency and CO₂ emissions can be significantly improved. Even with relatively simple means, you can reduce the footprint and operating costs of older machines – without major interventions in the systems or your company’s IT. This way, sustainability does not remain an abstract concept but becomes an objectively measurable and thus controllable business goal.

Production under (compressed) pressure

Ten percent of industrial energy demand is used solely for compressed air generation, making it one of the most expensive production resources. Even the smallest leaks cause compressors to run unnecessarily often – costing real money. Up to 30 percent of the energy costs in such systems can be traced back to leaks according to the Energy Agency. With pressure and flow sensors and the io‑key, you can clearly identify and eliminate unusual consumption patterns, changes, or deviations via the cloud – and develop sustainable energy strategies based on the data. Sounds like hot air? Then read here how SMC Deutschland GmbH uses EnergyTransparency@SMC, the io‑key and only ten minutes of installation time to make compressed air processes more efficient, economical and sustainable. Working with hydraulics instead of compressed air? Same principle – sensors detect leaks before they cause environmental damage.

Condition does not come from conditioning

Condition monitoring and predictive maintenance are flagship IoT applications. The advantages are clear: manufacturers can optimise their service and collect valuable field data from their machines, while operators benefit from needs-based “just‑in‑time” maintenance instead of fixed service intervals. This also benefits the environment: fewer on‑site visits mean fewer trips, reduced fuel consumption and less CO₂. A triple win of cost‑efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability – achievable, for example, with vibration sensors that monitor the smooth running of drives and other rotating components.

Last but not least …

Sustainability is a broad field, especially regarding technical components. IoT gateways and similar devices are not disposable products. Pay attention to build quality and device robustness when purchasing, and choose the right protection class for your application. Great things start small.