In 2030 we will be able to save up to millions and millions of tons of CO2 if we accelerate the use of digital technologies. This is the conclusion reached by a study carried out by Bitkom, “Climate Effects of Digitalization”, which examined, among others, the savings potential of digital technologies in the area of mobility.
“Digital measures can make an immense contribution to transport reversal and climate protection,” says Achim Berg, the president of Bitkom. “In the mobility sector, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint by investing not only in asphalt and concrete, but also in bits and bytes. Only in this way can we achieve the climate goals for 2030 ”.
Smart mobility, smart planet
The German study obviously focuses on Germany. It is not difficult to understand, however, that changing our approach to mobility technologies would revolutionize the entire sector in any country. To remain in the German case, the savings would be 25 million tons of CO2, that is 7% of all the savings planned by 2030. Intelligent traffic control systems (sensors and GPS systems) would be enough.
Imagine an IT platform that combines data from hundreds of intelligent traffic lights and environmental ones, adapting the flow of traffic in real time. The paths of people, or stops, would be optimized to the maximum, reducing congestion and “stop and go” traffic that we hate so much (I call it “heel and toe”, due to the martyrdom I suffer with the pedals).
Plus: smart mobility would also reduce indirect fuel consumption, increasing the longevity of vehicles. Public transport could also benefit from this, for example by introducing (And massively) digital tickets, real-time information and free wifi on vehicles.
Logistics sector
In logistics, millions of tonnes of CO2 can be saved, especially through intelligent technologies that plan mobility, control and distribute the flow of goods more efficiently. Like? Once again with a combination of IoT sensors, big data, digitized warehouses and complete traffic management platforms.
Imagine a platform that automatically assigns drivers based on factors such as proximity to location, driving style, skills or type of vehicle. Deliveries can be designed more efficiently based on real-time data and traffic analysis. Shorter routes, less traffic, fewer delays. Less emissions.
Individual transport
This sector can also benefit from more efficient and resource-friendly mobility and save millions of tons of CO2. In the so-called shared mobility (Bikesharing, Scootersharing, Carsharing, Ridesharing Any-vehicle-sharing), vehicles are made available by private, public and commercial providers as a flexible means of transport. This leads to better transport links, reduces traffic congestion and optimizes vehicle maintenance.
In all, this study examines the beneficial effects of digitization in seven different areas: manufacturing, mobility, energy, construction, work and business, agriculture and health. If you are familiar with the German language, you can download it here.
