SDG 12: Industry 4.0 and Sustainable Consumption
Industry 4.0 offers the possibility to use resources more efficiently, close cycles, and reduce emissions.
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Saving Resources, Closing Cycles
SDG 12 demands that the consumption of natural resources be reduced, waste be avoided, and production processes be made more sustainable. This is where Industry 4.0 comes in: Through precise control, real-time data, and adaptive systems, material usage and energy consumption can be optimised, production waste can be reduced, and recycling processes can be efficiently integrated. In this way, smart value chains are created that combine ecological and economic goals.
EdeN – Decentralised Aquaponics with Digital Components
With the project ‘EdeN – Effiziente dezentrale nachhaltige Lebensmittel-Produktion’ (efficient, decentralised, and sustainable food production), USTP gives centre stage to the interface between Industry 4.0 and the sustainable use of resources. The objective is the smart operation of aquaponics facilities using IoT technologies in order to make processes more efficient and facilitate access for beginners.
Aquaponics is a combination of fish farming and plant cultivation in a closed cycle: The fish’s excretions provide nutrients for the plants, while the plants – in turn – clean the water which is then recycled. Thanks to digital control and renewable energy sources, a system is created that produces nearly no waste and makes optimal use of resources.
Knowledge Exchange Is Key
Sustainable development does not live on technology alone – cooperation is also important. This is why the project does not only concern itself with the operation of individual systems, but with establishing a knowledge management tool for the exchange of data and experiences. This allows operators to learn from each other, further develop solutions, and use synergies together. EdeN thus combines modern technology and participatory collaboration – and demonstrates how Industry 4.0 can contribute specifically to the implementation of SDG 12.
About the SDG Topic Series
Within the framework of our SDG topic series, we dedicate ourselves to one of the 17 goals for sustainable development every week. The selected contributions serve as examples to illustrate how USTP – University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten contributes to a sustainable future. In doing so, we highlight diverse issues – from poverty in old age and ‘AI for Green’ to strategic partnerships and networks.
