Technology often receives a lot of negative press regarding its environmental impact, and not without good reason; from energy-hungry data centres to e-waste mountains, you get the picture.
But the truth is, the same innovation that created these challenges can also be harnessed to solve them. In fact, some of the most promising solutions for reducing carbon emissions, cutting waste, and building a greener future are powered by tech.
The differentiation is not just more technology — it’s smarter technology.
Here are three big ways tech can flip the script on environmental impact:
Optimisation through data – Sensors, IoT devices and analytics platforms can track resource use in real time, helping businesses cut energy consumption and waste.
Circular economy tools – Platforms that manage reuse, recycling and remanufacturing can keep materials in use for longer, reducing reliance on single-use products.
Behaviour change tech – Apps, gamification and smart tracking can nudge consumers and businesses into greener habits, making sustainability engaging rather than a chore.
And one UK company is already proving just how effective this can be:
Sustainable technology solutions firm Circulayo has revealed it has so far helped prevent more than 30,000kg of carbon emissions since it launched in 2021.
Working with businesses across Derby, they’ve been swapping single-use packaging for smart, reusable alternatives — and the numbers are impressive:
740,638 single-use products avoided
32,149kg of carbon emissions prevented
14,812kg of single-use plastic waste stopped at the source
Over £100,000 saved for businesses
The UK throws away around seven million disposable cups every single day. That’s a massive contributor to both plastic pollution and rising carbon emissions — not to mention the pressure it puts on councils and companies to manage waste.
But in Derby, things are changing. Businesses like Derby LIVE, Vaillant Live, Derby County and Down to Earth are switching to reusable packaging powered by Circulayo’s smart reuse tech.
Here’s how it works:
Customers scan QR codes to earn eco-rewards and find return points
Circulayo’s Flow Platform tracks every reuse, stock level and environmental saving in real time
Businesses can see the impact in black and white — and use the data to improve further
Circulayo’s work is proof that technology doesn’t have to be the problem. By combining smart tracking, real-time data and user engagement, it’s making sustainability a reality. Naturally, Circulayo isn’t the only company working toward this future; there are many out there- too many for me to put in one blog! So, yes, technology sustainability is a problem, but there is always a chance for a better future.
Bit of a different blog today, but important nevertheless. Stay tuned, and stay safe!
