The global environmental issues that face the world need solutions from countries and industries around the world. In short, we must all play our part in solving these issues.
That’s where technology may provide solutions to these issues. Technology and the environment may actually be more closely linked than many think. Startups are continually pushing boundaries when it comes to technological innovations and these have ecological benefits as a side effect sometimes. While it may not be the only answer to climate change, it might be an important part of the solution.
We look at industries making an impact on the global environmental crisis.
Renewable energy startups
Southeast Asia has its share of renewable energy startups and they have been making progress in improving the energy industry. With startups tackling the issue and growth of the solar industry, Southeast Asia is moving towards a clean energy future not dependent on fossil fuels.
Here are the top 10 green startups in Southeast Asia
This renewable technology is being brought to the market by enterprising startups that are looking to solve community and social problems, as well as tackle the global energy crisis. The improving efficiency and better education around the topic is helping the industry grow.
Everything in the ‘sharing’ economy
The sharing economy is a recent development that provides solutions and services to individuals at a lower cost by removing the need to purchase the vehicle, product or service in its entirety, but use it as and when you need. Just through this simple process, it greatly reduces our environmental impact by enabling individuals to purchase less and use fewer materials.
Companies like Grab and Go-Jek make it easier to get around without owning a car. Airbnb is making rental and room bookings more efficient by ensuring greater utilisation, while even services such as iFlix have removed the need for DVD rentals, delivery and other aspects that had an unseen ecological cost.
The electric car revolution
At Tech Collective, we may have something of a bias in favour of electric vehicles. See this article about its impact on Southeast Asia and an industry view of electric vehicles in the region.
A few paragraphs before, we discussed how ‘sharing’ companies enable us to use fewer vehicles, we can also see those vehicles becoming more sustainable. Hybrids and electric vehicles have continued to become popular and are now the norm for many markets.
As technology continues to progress, it is likely the cost will start to catch up to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, making electric cars a viable option for the mass transport market.
Smarter Homes
The impact we can have on the environment honestly does start at home, because it is one of the biggest energy users. However, new technologies are helping to reduce the negative impact on the environment. From smart thermostats or energy efficient lighting, it makes it easier to conserve or utilise less energy without impacting your comfort.
Just remember that we cannot wait for technology and startups in the region to solve the issue, when we also have a huge part to play in solving this problem. So, make sure you also do your part and use services that are making a difference in the region.