Cleantech Trends Worth Watching
Clean technologies is playing a vital role in fostering sustainable development and low-carbon growth. Below is a summary of the key cleantech trends happening in different parts of the world.
Access to clean, reliable and relatively cheap energy from renewable resources, especially solar power, will usher in a new era in developing countries like India, Bangladesh, Kenya, Rwanda and Peru.
Off-grid renewable energy
Off-grid (also known as microgrid or standalone) renewable power systems are already making a meaningful difference in the lives of millions of people in the developing world, especially in rural areas. Apart from solar, wind and biomass energy will also play a key role in improving the living conditions in impoverished parts of the world.
Battery energy storage
Advancements in battery energy storage have pushed this particular sector into media as well as public spotlight. With big industry names like Tesla and Nissan leading from the front, energy storage technologies are expected to make great contribution in transition to green grid powered by intermittent energy sources like solar PV, CSP, wind and biogas.
Zero waste living
In recent years, the concept of Zero Waste has transformed our perception about garbage. The concept of Zero Waste has led to the development of a new waste management hierarchy involving 7Rs – Reduce, Replace, Reuse, Recycle, Recover, Refuse and Rethink. Zero Waste movement is fast spreading worldwide and many communities are making serious efforts to reduce waste generation and to make the best use of trash.
In the coming years, advancements in recycling systems, treatment methods and eco-design will not only help in waste diversion from landfills but also help in smooth transition to a circular economy.
Salman Zafar is an ecopreneur, consultant, advisor, speaker and journalist with expertise in waste management, waste-to-energy, renewable energy, environment protection, conservation and sustainable development. His geographical areas of focus include Asia, Middle East, Africa and Europe. Salman is the Founder of EcoMENA, a popular voluntary organization based in Qatar. He is also the Founder and CEO of BioEnergy Consult, a reputed consulting firm active in biomass, waste-to-energy and waste management segments.
Salman is a professional environmental writer with more than 350 popular articles to his credit. He is proactively engaged in creating mass environmental awareness in different parts of the world.
Salman Zafar can be reached at salman@ecomena.org or salman@bioenergyconsult.com
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