Green Tech 101 – Definition, Examples, Facts :
The term “Green tech” describes the use of technology to improve or lessen harmful environmental effects. This can take the form of cutting waste in your procedures or reducing CO2 emissions. The goals of green technology are resource preservation and environmental protection. Wastewater recycling, solar production and other fields use green technology.
With up to 13 tons of CO2 released yearly, the middle east has very high per-capita greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Countries in the middle east have stated their intentions to decrease GHG in the spirit of international cooperation and decarbonization. For instance, the UAE, which will host COP28, has promised to implement the strategic goal known as “Net Zero emissions” by the year 2050.
Usages of Green tech
1. Solar
Through photovoltaic elements or mirrors that focus solar radiation, solar panels can be integrated into a tower, put in a field, or attached to a roof to convert sunlight into electrical energy.
2. Nuclear Power
Nuclear energy is a clean, emission-free energy source that generates power by fissioning uranium atoms to release energy. Fission heat produces steam, which turns a turbine and produces power. Nuclear energy production effectively reduces the toxic byproducts released by fossil fuels, has little environmental impact, and generates little waste.
3. Biogas
You get biogas when organic matter breaks down in the absence of oxygen. Biogas is mostly made up of methane and carbon dioxide. After removing the carbon dioxide, biogas can be compressed and utilized to power automobiles.
4. Wastewater treatment
Green tech can be used for wastewater treatment. You can use green tech to treat water using cutting-edge and traditional methods. These methods include absorption, disinfection, flocculation, oxidation, etc. This is usually done before releasing the water into rivers and seas.
5. Smart Power Bars
Computers and other household gadgets may still use a significant amount of energy even when not in use. Smart power bars address this issue by including outlets specifically designed to limit the power being used until the outlet detects an “on” signal from the device.
Pros of Green Tech
1. Reduces the effects of global warming
Due to a decrease in CO2 emissions, green technology mitigates the consequences of global warming. Green tech goods provide the ability to cut down on their resource consumption and carbon footprint as the technology industry expands and consumers become more environmentally concerned.
2. Job opportunities
The new job possibilities provided by this booming area of the economy are undoubtedly one of the advantages of green technology in the middle east.
3. Cheap
The maintenance costs of green tech are cheaper. Hence, the operational and total costs over time might be reduced.
4. Reduces Water Consumption
Water is a valuable resource. Thus, it is crucial to avoid wasting it. Water is used extensively in both domestic and industrial applications. Using green technologies by industries leads to a decrease in water usage.
Cons of Green Tech
It will take a while before the technology becomes widely utilized since it is still relatively new to most people. Also, many green tech solutions are still in the R&D stage as green technology advances. Moreover, due to a lack of qualified human resources, installing and implementing green technology-based systems and products is challenging.
Conclusion
Green tech is not a concept that any country or region, especially the middle east, can ignore. It promotes a more healthy and more sustainable environment.