Can mobile technology save the world

AI-generated image licensed through Freepik

According to the GSMA, the global association for mobile communications networks, there are more than 13 billion mobile connections, and it's growing by the second. At the same time, 2024 was the hottest year on record and many governments are failing to meet climate targets. What's the link? Is there one?

The truth is, it's complicated. While all these devices and connections consume sometimes large amounts of energy, they are also enabling some incredibly innovative solutions to protect the environment and bring greenhouse gas emissions down. What we need, then, is to ensure that next generation telecommunications are used for the greater good, all the while being safe and as efficient as they can be.

A lot of great stuff is already happening, in part because it's easier than ever to provide connectivity to different types of sensors and unique implementations. 5G networks play a big part in that as their increased bandwidth capacity means they can support more devices for less energy consumed. They enable, for example, the use of low power internet of things (IoT) devices that can be put in places that are ideal for monitoring conditions and efficiency, without needing to be replaced or charged frequently. For example, there are sensors that can be implemented that can monitor for oil or gas leaks, or temperature and humidity sensors that can monitor changes in climates where people may not have easy or regular access. Sensors are even being used to protect against deforestation by detecting the sound of illegal chainsaw operations.

This is just the beginning, the ways of improving efficiencies and providing vital information in order to more sustainable choices are endless. And it is all thanks to the continual improvements to the wireless infrastructure to allow for these types of devices to be connected in an efficient way.

Yet, 13 billion mobile connections (and growing!) is still a lot of connections. As we create more "things" that can be connected, we need to be mindful of the resources required to not only manufacture these devices but to additionally to keep them powered and to manage the data being sent and processed on the network. Additionally, the explosion of AI has also created a huge increase in demand for more data and high levels processing, requiring large amounts of resources

The good news is that the innovations that will be part of 6G will allow for more efficient communications and data. More efficient networks mean that the capacity can be handled without necessarily increasing the need for more base stations or antennas. It will also see improvements in the way data is sent and parsed which will reduce the data processing burden and consequent limit energy consumption.

When it comes to devices, technologies like wireless power transfer will become more efficient, reducing the need for additional cables, chargers and other physical hardware in keeping devices powered.

Standardization is important as it provides the frameworks and expertise on how to develop products safely and sustainably, as well as to support these technologies. Standards are also a great opportunity for all the different players in the industry to collaborate. Because in this field, it's impossible to make progress without an interdisciplinary approach.

For example, the safety of wireless networks and technologies is sometimes seen as a concern by members of the public. Within IEC TC 106, science, engineering and policy experts collaborate to write standards and guidelines for testing the electromagnet exposure levels of devices and networks, in accordance with international recommendations.

Collaboration is key, which is why on Tuesday 17 June at 13.00 - 14.00 CEST I'm participating in an IEC Academy webinar, where we discuss insights on innovation trends, cross-sector collaboration, and the role of engineering leadership in building a greener digital future. The event is also to celebrate the many women engineers who are making a positive difference in this field, in the lead up to International Women in Engineering Day on 23rd June.

Join me to hear more about climate conscious engineering and how 5G and 6G technologies can be harnessed for environmental benefit.

Register here.