Three developments to share at COP28…

The urgency to address climate change has never been more apparent, and as we approach COP28 in the UAE, the role of digital technology in achieving net zero has become increasingly vital. At Digital Catapult, we are committed to pioneering innovative solutions that leverage the power of digital adoption to drive the transition to a sustainable future. As the world’s biggest climate conference approaches we are exploring three key areas where digital adoption will play a crucial role in advancing the net zero agenda.

Digitising Supply Chains

 As the world moves towards net energy systems, supply chain collaboration becomes more important. As we build new energy infrastructure and connect renewable assets to the grid, data is a key tool in ensuring effective impact. This has become an increasingly important issue, as more and more assets look to join the electricity grid, yet face long waits due to supply chain and connection challenges.

At the forefront of our efforts in this area is the Digital Supply Chain Hub, a national program that spearheads the integration of digital technology into UK supply chains. By fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, including government, large enterprises, SME manufacturers, and industry leaders, the hub aims to create a globally competitive, digital innovation ecosystem. Through the hub, we are working to make supply chains more efficient, resilient, and sustainable, addressing critical challenges facing UK manufacturing. The Digital Supply Chain Hub is a cornerstone in our journey towards reducing emissions and achieving a greener future.

Making Hydrogen a Viable Energy Alternative

Digital Catapult’s commitment to driving decarbonisation extends beyond reducing emissions, as we look to innovate in the production and distribution of alternative energy sources. Alongside other partners in the Catapult Network, Digital Catapult is working to deliver the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative (HII). The HII supports UK industry by accelerating the development of critical technologies and supply chains for the fast-growing hydrogen economy. By focusing on nine key technology areas for hydrogen production, distribution, and consumption, HII is at the forefront of making hydrogen a more viable alternative energy source. Through collaborative efforts and innovation, HII is poised to anchor high-value jobs, boost resilience, and drive the transition to a hydrogen-powered future.

Unlocking Efficiency and Reducing Emissions with AI 

In our pursuit of net zero, artificial intelligence emerges as a powerful ally. 

The Innovate UK BridgeAI programme, a national initiative, seeks to stimulate the adoption of AI and machine learning technologies in sectors with high growth potential. By providing funding, upskilling opportunities, and technical assistance, BridgeAI is empowering sectors such as agriculture, creative industries, construction, and transport to harness the benefits of AI responsibly. Through this program, we are driving efficiency gains, increasing gross value-add, and supporting the transition to an AI-enabled economy.

Decarbonisation – the removal or reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) output into the atmosphere – is critical to tackling the climate process. Artificial Intelligence is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal for driving decarbonisation. 

Next month Digital Catapult, in partnership with the Energy Systems Catapult and the Alan Turing Institute, is launching the AI Innovation for Decarbonisation’s Virtual Centre of Excellence (ADViCE). As part of the UK government’s AI for Decarbonisation innovation programme, ADViCE plays a pivotal role in accelerating the development of innovative AI technologies for decarbonisation applications, aligning with the UK’s ambitious transition to net zero. 

By fostering collaboration between AI innovators and key businesses in carbon-emitting sectors, ADViCE aims to maximise the economic and environmental benefits of AI solutions. This virtual centre of excellence serves as a crucial hub, disseminating information, identifying strategic challenges, and providing pathways for private funding. Through ADViCE, Digital Catapult is at the forefront of driving AI-powered decarbonisation solutions, contributing to the broader mission of achieving a sustainable and net-zero future.

As we gear up for COP28 it is important to remember the role digital technology can play in solving the enormous challenges we face. Through initiatives like the Digital Supply Chain Hub, the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative, and the BridgeAI programme, we are actively shaping a sustainable future. These endeavours underscore Digital Catapullt’s commitment to leveraging digital technology as a transformative force in the fight against climate change. We look forward to seeing how other stakeholders are leveraging innovative solutions for the net zero transition at COP28. 

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