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Sustainable Future: The Big Trends for 2025
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The year 2024, already considered to be the hottest ever recorded, was marked by rapid changes in the world of sustainability, with some trends gaining momentum and consolidating themselves as pillars of the future. While technology and digitalization continued to make their presence felt, especially artificial intelligence and the growing pressure on data centres and their energy footprint, the major theme of 2024 was undoubtedly the need to transform the way we work and consume. The focus on the energy transition was not limited to technological innovations, but highlighted the importance of behavioral change, both in companies and consumers.
As 2025 approaches, sustainability and digitalization will continue to redefine business operations and asset management. With regulatory requirements increasing and consumer expectations evolving, companies need to position themselves as leaders in responsible and efficient practices. Nextbitt, as a specialist in Enterprise Asset Management (EAM), Environmental Management Systems (EMS ) and Energy Management Systems (EnMS), presents the trends that will shape the future of these crucial areas.
The modernization of energy infrastructures, supported by artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming energy management. Digitalized systems enable more efficient and reliable distribution, which is a priority for companies looking to increase their energy resilience. In addition, the integration of real-time data into energy networks makes it possible to predict consumption peaks and better manage distribution, minimizing waste and optimizing costs.
Smart grids play a key role in this transformation. These networks use advanced sensors and predictive algorithms to automatically adjust energy distribution based on demand, reducing losses and improving the overall sustainability of the system.
Circular business models are gaining traction, focusing on reducing waste and maximizing resources.
The growing production of electronic waste, with the United Nations forecasting that it will reach 82 million tons by 2030 (an increase of 33% compared to 2022), and with only a small part being properly collected and recycled, is driving the adoption of more sustainable strategies.
Solutions such as component reuse, modular design and repair rather than replacement will become crucial. The adoption of technologies that facilitate the tracking of materials is also a growing trend. In addition, companies are investing in digital platforms that make it possible to trace the complete life cycle of a product. These tools provide insights into the origin of materials, the environmental impact of production and options for reuse or recycling.
Global investments in clean energy technologies are expected to see considerable growth in the coming years. This focus on sustainable innovation will be essential for tackling environmental challenges and creating lasting competitive advantages. Emerging technologies such as green hydrogen, long-life batteries and carbon capture processes are already changing the industrial and energy landscape.
Several leading companies, as well as public administration bodies, are betting on new business models, such as energy performance contracts (EPCs)which bind technology suppliers to long-term sustainable performance.
AI is redefining the way companies approach sustainability. From automating complex reports to improving data quality, AI makes it easier to comply with strict regulations such as the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). In addition, AI algorithms help predict environmental impacts, enabling proactive adjustments to industrial processes and the supply chain.
A practical example is the use of AI to monitor the health of critical assets in real time. This not only extends the useful life of equipment, but also minimizes operational interruptions and waste associated with unnecessary maintenance.
Companies are replacing isolated initiatives with integrated, high-impact solutions. This movement makes it possible to align sustainable efforts with strategic objectives, maximizing positive results for the business and the environment. Nextbitt offers tools that centralize data and provide actionable insights to improve organizations' sustainable performance.
Cross-sector collaboration is also gaining relevance. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, public-private-philanthropy partnerships (4 P's) are emerging as an effective model for tackling complex global challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity.
Cloud platforms are gaining popularity due to their scalability and integration with other business systems. These solutions allow for real-time monitoring and rapid interventions, reducing costs and improving efficiency. The flexibility offered by the cloud also facilitates constant updates, ensuring that companies remain at the cutting edge of technology.
With the evolution of EAM platforms, companies are incorporating predictive analytics, which usehistorical and current data to predict failures and optimize asset maintenance. This not only reduces operating costs, but also improves overall sustainability.
Sustainability is at the heart of asset management, with many companies investing in greener technologies. From more efficient equipment to reducing waste, asset management plays a critical role in reducing the environmental footprint. For example IoT sensors sensors installed in equipment help to predict failures and avoid unnecessary maintenance, reducing resource consumption.
The use of recycled and low environmental impact materials in new assets is also gaining prominence. This approach significantly reduces the emissions associated with the production and transportation of new equipment.
ESG software has become essential for measuring and reporting environmental, social and governance performance . These tools eliminate much of the manual effort, allowing companies to focus on long-term strategies. In addition, integration with other business management platforms allows for a more comprehensive view of the organization's overall impact.
The development of customizeddashboards for monitoring KPIs (key performance indicators) is helping companies translate complex data into actionable insights, improving strategic decision-making.
Nextbitt has developed the concept of an Operational Command Centre for Sustainability, which centralizes the monitoring of critical data, allowing strategic decisions to be made in real time. This center is not a physical space, but an integrated system of digital tools that provides a holistic and accurate view of the sustainable performance of organizations.
With this concept, companies can:
Centralizing data in a single system increases transparency and facilitates communication with stakeholders, creating a solid basis for sustainability reports and external audits.
Measuring Scope 3 emissions is vital to understanding the total impact of the value chain. However, it represents one of the biggest challenges due to the complexity of collecting data from suppliers. Nextbitt offers advanced methodologies to calculate these emissions, combining cutting-edge technology and expert advice to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Specific tools help map indirect emissions associated with transportation, raw materials and other critical factors. Scope 3's detailed analysis allows companies to identify areas for priority intervention, promoting a significant reduction in environmental impact.
In addition, measuring Scope 3 contributes to creating more sustainable supply chains by encouraging suppliers to adopt environmentally responsible practices.
Continuous measurement of sustainability data makes it possible:
Regular monitoring also enables companies to respond quickly to changes in regulations, remaining competitive in an ever-changing market. In addition, frequent measurement of environmental indicators such as the carbon footprint reinforces the credibility of sustainable initiatives and makes it easier to obtain internationally recognized certifications.
The transparency generated by regular measurement increases investor and consumer confidence, becoming a competitive differentiator for companies.
With the arrival of 2025, the adoption of innovative and sustainable practices is becoming essential. Nextbitt continues to be at the forefront, offering solutions that integrate technology, sustainability and operational efficiency. Companies that embrace these trends will be better prepared to face future challenges and generate long-term value.
The implementation of emerging technologies and the centralization of sustainability data are fundamental steps for companies that want not only to comply with regulations, but also to stand out as market leaders, thus being able not only to optimize processes, but also to improve the transparency and traceability of their actions, something that is increasingly valued by consumers and regulators.
By offering customized and advanced solutions, Nextbitt is prepared to support companies in implementing these changes, helping them to achieve their sustainable transformation efficiently and effectively. The future belongs to those who embrace innovation responsibly, and companies that choose sustainability as the central axis of their strategy will play a leading role in building a more balanced and prosperous world for all.
Sílvia Sousa
Product & Brand Manager, Nextbitt
