How Drones And Modern Technology Can Help Improve Sustainability

Julie Starr • September 3, 2024

Let’s face it, drones haven’t had the best introduction to the world, especially when people misuse them for bad intentions instead of good ones. There are some incredible benefits and advantages to using drones but often enough, we just get exposed to the negative impacts of it through the media.


Drones and modern technology can help improve sustainability in a number of ways and whether you’re a business looking to be more sustainable or you’re looking to make a difference individually with the use of drones, this guide will share everything you need to know about drones and modern technology.


Hopefully, by the end of the article, you’ll be taking on more modern technology in life, as well as drones to help with the productivity and benefits that come with sustainability in today’s world.


The rise of drones in popularity

Drones have certainly risen in popularity over the last few years and are now being used across many industries for the benefit of sustainability as well as to help with certain business operations and needs.


The drone industry is certainly expected to grow quite rapidly, which is why you should be hopping onto the bandwagon as soon as you’re able. The market size is one that has reached dizzying heights of $22.4 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to a whopping $166.7 billion by 2031.


The use of drones varies from agriculture to weddings and corporate events. As well as delivery and logistics, to media and entertainment, drones are something that you certainly want to embrace within your life or business for the benefit of sustainability.


Drones are still evolving and their regulations are also being adjusted and amended so that they cause as little disruption or illegal use as possible. However, the level of technology and quality used within the engineering of modern drones is incredible.


8 ways drones help improve sustainability

What are some of the ways in which drones help improve sustainability? If you’re looking to make improvements for the purpose of your own business or you’re just curious about what drones are capable of in general, here are 8 ways drones like the DJI drone help improve sustainability currently.


#1 Helpful to reduce carbon emissions

Are you churning out a lot of carbon emissions as a business? There are plenty of businesses that have made the effort to reduce their carbon footprint and hopefully leave less of an imprint on the world’s carbon contributions.


However, there are still plenty of businesses out there that are causing a lot of problems with their carbon emission volume.


Drones are able to help reduce carbon emissions by eliminating the need for fossil fuels. As we know, a lot of cars are now moving over to electric use, which will hopefully result in no more diesel or petrol use in the future.


Of course, a diesel or petrol-free world is still a long way away but drones, it can certainly help speed up the process. Drones themselves contribute very little to carbon emissions so it’s definitely worth considering these as an option.


#2 Planting trees and restoring natural habitats

Work for an organization that supports wildlife and nature? A great way that drones can be used is through the preservation and restoration of places that need attention.


Planting trees is a great way of helping the environment and the local wildlife, which is where drones can be of use. Drones can be helpful in helping plant trees and restore natural habitats, especially in places that might be harder to reach on foot or by vehicle.

 

With a lot of trees and wildlife being torn down for the purpose of the property, it’s important that we’re helping to increase the number of natural habitats around the world to continue keeping the air clean and free of carbon emissions.


There are plenty of natural disasters that have also torn down a lot of woodland, which is where the repair work needs to happen.


#3 Useful for improving food production

It’s incredible to think that in 2024, we’re still having problems with food and ensuring no person in the world goes hungry. However, there are still significant numbers of people who are going hungry and that’s heartbreaking.


Everyone deserves a hot meal in their stomach each day and no child should be going hungry because they don’t have access to food in general.

Being able to fuel food production is a great way to ensure there’s food available for everyone. Drones can be helpful in also improving sustainability in food production.


Providing alternative pest control is how drones are able to minimize the impact and damage made to local wildlife. While you don’t want pests destroying crops, you also don’t want to kill any animals or bugs that are essential for keeping the world spinning.


There are already a lot of farmers and businesses responsible for food production, who are using drones to help with delivering alternative pest control to crops. Hopefully, it will have a significant improvement in the volume of food produced throughout the world.


#4 Helps reduce energy consumption

Being able to reduce energy consumption as a household or as an organization can certainly be helpful. Drones are able to reduce energy consumption by helping to optimize the route and speed that comes when conducting inventory tasks.


They can also be used in various other ways to help cut out the option of something that would otherwise cause more energy consumption. Being able to optimize your business operations is helpful and drones can be the helping hand you need to achieve this.


#5 Great as a sustainable alternative to fireworks

Fireworks have long been a way of celebrating occasions like bonfire night in the UK or the 4th of July in the States. While fireworks are a delight to the senses both audibly and visually, they can often be a waste and a substantial waste at that.


However, drones have paved the way as an alternative to fireworks and if done correctly, they are just as effective if not more jaw-dropping and animated than fireworks.


There have already been many examples of drones being used across the world and in large volumes to create visually stunning pictures and moving imagery in the night sky.


#6 Great for supply chain sustainability 

Being able to optimize inventory management is important where businesses are concerned because overspending or ordering too much stock can cause waste and a loss in earnings.


Drones are helpful in reducing supply chain waste while optimizing the inventory management of the company. Not only that but for any businesses who are operating warehouses, it can help reduce the inefficiencies in this area of business operations too.


#7 Helpful for monitoring and mapping

When it comes to drones having accessibility to areas that are perhaps more restrictive to those on foot or via vehicle, these devices can be helpful when monitoring or mapping certain areas. For the purpose of tracking pollution levels, helping with conservation, or identifying potential land risks, there are plenty of uses for drones for both monitoring and mapping.


#8 Reduces reliance on vehicles

And finally, when it comes to vehicles, they can often be the main cause of carbon emissions, which are contributing a significant amount to climate change. 


With drones, it reduce the reliance on vehicles and can be helpful in saving on emissions that would otherwise be caused by these vehicles of varying sizes.


Other technology to help with sustainability

There are many other forms of technology that can be helpful when it comes to sustainability. These include:

  • Waste management
  • Solar panels, wind turbines, and water turbines
  • Carbon capture and storage
  • Cloud storage to encourage paperless organizations
  • Energy efficient and smart buildings/vehicles
  • Internet of Things
  • AI-controlled systems.


The world of technology is forever growing and how we use it is important to how much growth we make as a society in the long run. Being able to use it for the purpose of energy efficiency is fantastic because it hopefully gives our younger generations more time on this earth as a whole.


Being able to reduce and recycle more waste can also have a positive impact on the environment and thankfully, there are more technologies being utilized to make society more efficient in their usage of waste and how it impacts the world around them.


With technology in relation to smart devices and devices connected to the internet, it has been incredibly helpful to connect the world more efficiently and without using as much in the way of emissions.


The use of smart technology and AI has been helpful in creating efficiency in all areas of the world.


While there are some reservations about AI in particular and the machine learning technology’s power and influence in the future, it’s still a technology that should be utilized and taken advantage of where possible.


Both drones and modern technology are providing to be effective in helping improve sustainability and make the world a healthier place. It is also slowing down and hopefully undoing some of the extensive damage that society has made globally over the decades and centuries.

Eco-Friendly Garden Prep: Summer Tips for a Greener Business Space

By Julie Starr • June 5, 2025
If you're lucky enough to have a garden as part of your business, taking some time to set it up for summer is a great investment of your energy. Not only will it be ready for your customers to spend time in, but you can also incorporate some eco-friendly elements into it. Many people just think about the property and what eco-friendly updates they can make , but there are plenty that you can implement in your garden. This gives you the best of both worlds. You own a sacred and beautiful place for your customers to spend their summer, and at the same time, you can do your part for a better planet. If this is the route you want to take, then you also need to consider how to do this with the different seasons. To help you on your journey, here are some top tips for preparing your garden for summer. Plant trees and flowers Planting trees and flowers in your garden is a must. It will make a beautiful scene of nature for everyone to enjoy. Trees will provide people and animals with shade, as well as provide a habitat for wildlife. More trees are needed in the world because they purify the air that we breathe. Flowers, especially if you plant with pollinators in mind, can be an excellent way to attract bees and butterflies, which contribute largely to the earth. Use natural pest control When preparing your garden for summer, you can do this more sustainably and kindly by using natural pest control. Simply by planting trees and flowers, you are likely to attract lots of different wildlife, some of which may destroy your efforts. While all wildlife should be considered, you may need to take measures. Some better and more eco-friendly ways you can do this, as opposed to spraying toxic chemicals onto your plants and into the air, you can implement companion planting, using protective nets over your crops, choosing resilient plants, using natural repellents, and encouraging natural predators so nature can do its thing. Maintain your garden Maintaining your garden in itself can make it more eco-friendly. Composting your garden waste regularly, and kitchen waste can help you to reduce overall waste and create nutrient-rich soil. This is a great cycle of sustainability. You can also keep on top of things that need cleaning and replacing, so you can recycle the materials for other garden structures and projects, and repurpose things around your garden before they become waste. If you have features in your garden like a swimming pool, then a regular pool maintenance service is going to be vital in keeping your water consumption to a minimum, as when it is cleaned and maintained, it will need to be drained and refilled less as well as using less energy. You could also consider how you can use natural purification methods to reduce chemical usage and support biodiversity right in your backyard. Your garden is just an eco-friendly project waiting to be built. Use these top tips to help you get started.

The Impact of Sustainable Practices on the Food Service Industry

By Julie Starr • June 3, 2025
Sustainability is no longer something that can be considered optional in many businesses, including the food industry. From fast casual to fine dining, businesses face pressure to reduce waste, cut emissions, and use resources responsibly. Customers noticed, so too did regulators. This shift isn't about trends; it's about long-term business health. Operators now rethink everything: ingredients, packaging, equipment, and even furniture. The choices that they make affect cost, reputation, and the environment. Forward-thinking brands see sustainability as a chance to stand out, align with customer values, save money, and future-proof their business. Let's look at how sustainable practices are shaping the future of food service and why furniture choices matter more than ever. Sustainable Sourcing and Supply Chains Restaurants are choosing local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. More often, this reduces transportation emissions and supports nearby farms. It also appeals to customers who want food with a story. Sourcing matters; a restaurant that serves organic produce imported from thousands of miles away loses credibility. Local sourcing, when possible, keeps the supply chain shorter and more resilient. They also build community relationships. Sustainable seafood, fair trade coffee, and certified humane meat are becoming menu standards. But it's not just food; suppliers that use low-impact materials, avoid single-use plastics, or operate zero-waste facilities are getting more attention. Working with responsible vendors reduces environmental impact and strengthens the restaurant's reputation. It also makes it easier to meet sustainability benchmarks and certifications. Reducing Food Waste and Single-Use Plastics Food waste is expensive. Restaurants are responding with better forecasting, smaller portions, and creative ways to repurpose ingredients. Many now donate leftovers or compost scraps. Smart kitchen systems have reduced waste by tracking usage and spoilage. Front of house, more places encourage guests to take home leftovers or offer flexible portion sizes. Single-use plastics are also being phased out; straws, cutlery, and containers are switching to compostable or reusable versions. Many cities now require this, but even without mandates, customers expect it. Small changes make a big difference, such as swapping plastic lids for fiber-based ones or using reusable containers for takeout. In the long run, it also sends a clear message about your brand Energy Efficiency and Equipment Choices Energy use is a major cost for food service businesses. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems can contribute significantly. Induction cooktops, LED lighting , low-flow faucets, and energy-saving refrigeration reduce the environmental footprint. Some kitchens are even going all-electric to reduce reliance on gas. Smart energy monitoring systems provide real-time insights; this helps operators find waste, track trends, and make better decisions. Beyond the kitchen, some restaurants invest in solar panels or purchase renewable energy. It shows leadership and appeals to customers who care about climate action. Designing with Sustainability in Mind Interior design now plays a role in sustainability. Choosing eco-friendly materials and modular furniture reduces waste and supports the circular economy. Furniture companies that sell food service furniture offer tables, chairs, and booths made from recycled or responsibly sourced wood, metal, and plastics. Their products are durable, stylish, and built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Long-lasting furniture means fewer items in landfills. Plus, some suppliers offer take-back programs or extended product life. The right furniture also supports flexible layouts, which is important for adapting to changing service models like outdoor dining or shared spaces. Aligning with Customer Expectations More diners care about sustainability than ever before. It’s something that is extremely prominent in today’s dining experience. They want to support places that reflect their values. Transparency matters too , diners want to know exactly what businesses are doing to be more sustainable. Posting sourcing details, using certifications, and showing behind-the-scenes efforts builds trust. Sustainability isn't just a back-of-house concern; it should be visible throughout the customer journey. Guests notice packaging, signage, cleaning products, and even furniture. If your chairs are made from reclaimed wood or your tables are built from recycled metal, it becomes part of the story you tell. Employees also want to work for businesses that care; sustainability efforts can boost morale, improve retention, and create a strong workplace culture. Being consistent across all touchpoints helps turn sustainability from a checklist into a core part of your brand identity. Tracking Progress and Measuring Impact To stay on track, businesses need to measure what matters. Sustainability isn't guesswork; it's data-driven. Many restaurants now set goals for waste reduction, water usage, and carbon emissions. Digital dashboards, smart meters, and waste tracking apps provide clear feedback. Certifications like LEED , Green Restaurant Association, or B Corp can help validate progress, but the real value comes from aligning with goals and quickly reporting results. This transparency involves sharing results with staff and customers. This builds trust and shows accountability. Food service brands that track their impact tend to improve faster; they spot problems early and share wins more confidently. A culture of measurement helps maintain steady progress and keeps sustainability top of mind. Collaborating Across the Industry No restaurant can do it alone. Real change happens through partnerships. Food services need ot consider teaming up with local farms, recycling programs, and talking to local councils about any green schemes . This collaboration speeds up progress and helps avoid mistakes. Industry groups and supply networks now host workshops and certifications focused on sustainability. These shared resources help smaller businesses catch up and stay competitive. Technology platforms also make collaboration easier. Apps that connect surplus food with charities or tools for joint purchasing of sustainable goods are helping restaurants work smarter together. By building strong networks, the industry strengthens itself. Working together, sustainability leads to better outcomes and stronger communities. Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future in Food Service Sustainability touches every part of the food service industry, from menus to materials. The shift toward responsible choices is clear. Restaurants that act now gain a competitive edge; they reduce costs, attract loyal customers, and stay ahead of regulations. The transition doesn't have to be all or nothing; small steps lead to big changes. Choosing eco-friendly furniture, like the options from food service furniture, is one of the smart steps. It shows commitment, supports long-term value, and elevates the dining experience. Sustainability is no longer an add-on; it’s a business essential. For those who embrace it, it can be a source of growth, loyalty, and resilience.