How digital technology can drive energy efficiency and sustainability

Advanced Manufacturing and Mobility Business Minute

In this episode, Craig Coulter and Sai Yadati from the EY Advanced Manufacturing and Mobility team, examine what industrial companies can do to accelerate their sustainability initiatives.

As the urgency for carbon net zero mounts, industries are compelled to innovate and transform. The EY 2023 Sustainable Value Study reveals that the majority of advanced manufacturing and mobility (AM&M) companies are actively pursuing emission reductions, with a significant number targeting carbon neutrality and net zero within three decades. However, they face persistent challenges, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, inadequate energy infrastructure, geopolitical tensions over mineral resources, and a lack of high-quality environmental, social, and governance (ESG) data.

In this installment of the Advanced Manufacturing and Mobility Business Minute podcast series, we hear from Craig Coulter, EY Global AM&M Strategy and Operations and Sustainability Leader, and Sai Yadati, EY Americas AM&M Sustainability Leader. They delve into the strategies industrial companies can adopt to meet their climate change goals, emphasizing the role of digital innovation, strategic partnerships and leadership.

Coulter presents five key methods for harnessing technology to further sustainability, advocating for initiatives that extend beyond mere regulatory compliance. Both he and Yadati highlight the critical role of leadership in cultivating a culture that embraces innovation, risk-taking and change.

Join us to learn how fostering collaboration between digital transformation and sustainability teams, investing in employee skills development and establishing strategic alliances can pave the way for companies to expedite their journey toward decarbonization.

Key takeaways:

• Challenges such as energy infrastructure limitations, conflict minerals and the need for accurate ESG data are obstacles to reaching climate goals, despite progress and investments spurred by recent legislation.
• Digital tools are critical for energy transition, with examples showing significant reductions in emissions through smart energy management and the potential of virtual power purchase agreements for renewable energy sourcing.
• Leadership plays a key role in decarbonization by fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, essential for maximizing digital technology benefits and achieving sustainability targets.