In an exclusive interview with CIO TechOutlook, Aneel Kumar Savalagi, Global IT Infrastructure, Platform Engineering, & Operations Leader Giant Eagle, shares how emerging technologies like AI and blockchain are changing our understanding of how energy is fundamentally utilized. He also proceeds to emphasize how these technologies are reducing reliance on fossil fuels. He has over 17 years of rich experience in handling People, Processes, Product and Technology management for Enterprise IT Engineering & Operations functions.

How can emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain be leveraged to transition to a more sustainable economy and address environmental challenges while driving economic transformation?

AI can be leveraged to optimize resource management by forecasting energy demand, especially in the sustainable economical transformation phase. This action can further streamline supply chain efficiency and aid in waste reduction. AI driven analytics can help companies minimize their carbon footprint by optimizing the logistics and the production process.

IoT (Internet of things) can enable real-time monitoring while simultaneously boosting energy efficiency of the building. Smart sensors can track resource usage and allow for proactive adjustments for efficiency. Blockchain technology can ensure transparency and traceability in supply chains which results in sustainable sourcing and ethical and sustainable practices.

 Together, these technologies create a synergetic effect that drives economic transformation while combating environmental challenges.

Data analytics and AI enable businesses to monitor and optimize resource consumption, In what ways can companies leverage data to enhance their sustainability efforts, and how can AI contribute to optimizing energy use and reducing environmental impacts?

Data analytics coupled with AI can be leveraged in numerous impactful ways to boost sustainability efforts. One critical use case is predictive analytics. AI can analyze historical consumption to forecast future resource requirements. By predicting peak demand companies can adjust operations accordingly. It can develop algorithms that optimize energy in real time by keeping factors like energy prices in mind.

Another facet is waste reduction. Data analytics can identify waste patterns, thereby allowing companies to implement necessary strategies for waste reduction and recycling. AI can further augment this by recommending suitable waste management practices.

An additional use case is lifecycle analytics. Companies are already using data to assess the environmental impact of their products throughout their entire respective lifecycle. Lifecycle analytics in conjunction with AI is assisting in the most suitable design and manufacturing choices.

How can blockchain technology be utilized to promote a circular economy, and what are the challenges organizations might face in implementing such systems?

Blockchain can facilitate peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing of resources. It eliminates the need for intermediaries and enables an efficient means of resource allocation. The transparency it offers enables organizations to have an immutable record of product their product life cycles, right from source to the end of its life. It is possible to create token-based incentive systems that reward consumers for sustainable practices like recycling products.

The challenge associated with blockchain is interoperability and integrating it with existing systems. Organizations are still struggling to integrate this tool with their existing supply chain management systems and the processes that are associated with it. Data privacy is also problem given the transparent nature of blockchain, striking a balance between transparency and privacy is a complex area to navigate.

While blockchain systems provide a better value proposition, scalability becomes a challenge with high transaction values which can hinder their effectiveness in large scale application adoption.

In your view, how can 3D printing technology contribute to sustainability, particularly in reducing waste and supporting localized manufacturing?

Traditional manufacturing often involves subtractive processes that results in substantial waste. Conversely, 3D printing is additive in nature, it only uses materials as needed which eliminates the need for generating waste. The printing process can utilize a variety of materials, which often includes recycled plastics and biodegradable options. This property gives builders a wide range of options that fits their environment goals.

3D printing gives bespoke options, which eradicates the need for excess inventory. Companies can produce items on demand without excess production. This printing process also enables complex geometries and innovation while keeping material consumption to a minimum. This construction method is paving the way for a sustainable manufacturing.

Advancements in renewable energy technologies are crucial in reducing global reliance on fossil fuels. What role do you think technology plays in accelerating the adoption of renewable energy, and how can innovations like smart grids contribute to a more sustainable energy future?

Technological advancements in battery technologies and other energy forms have paved the way for efficient management of intermittent energy sources like solar and wind. Meanwhile, smart grid technologies enhance the management and distribution of electricity via digital communication and control systems.

Smart tech enables real-time monitoring of energy flow, and it optimizes the usage of said renewable sources. This adaptive property helps balance supply and demand in an effective manner. This technology also enables decentralization, allowing households and commercial properties to generate their own energy via solar and wind. Consumers are empowered now more than ever to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.