How Enterprises Can Leverage IoT and AI to Improve Efficiency and Sustainability — Tech Transformed

As global industries face mounting pressure to operate more efficiently and sustainably, many are turning to the combined power of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). From optimising energy usage to enabling real-time decision-making, these technologies are reshaping how businesses think about infrastructure, impact, and innovation. But the road to adoption isn’t without its challenges, from data literacy to greenwashing.

In this episode of Tech Transformed, Em360Tech host Trisha Pillay talks with Akanksha Sharma, Senior Director at the GSMA Foundation, about how these emerging technologies are creating tangible value, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and industries with legacy systems like utilities.

IOT and AI

Sharma highlights that the 2020s will be remembered as the decade when IoT experiences exponential growth, supported by data from GSMA Intelligence projecting over 37 billion IoT connections worldwide by 2030, more than doubling the number recorded in 2021. She notes that, unlike previous technological waves, AI adoption is accelerating rapidly, moving from niche awareness to mainstream use within just a few years.

When discussing climate action and carbon markets, Sharma stresses the need for transparent, data-backed verification mechanisms. She warns against superficial greenwashing practices and advocates for AI systems that prioritise accuracy and ethical standards to ensure genuine environmental benefits.

Takeaways

Data-driven infrastructure can turn sustainability into reality.
AI and IoT are set to scale in the 2020s.
Small and medium enterprises face unique operational challenges.
Digital solutions can enhance the accuracy of carbon credits.
Greenwashing misleads consumers about environmental benefits.
Digital literacy is a major barrier to technology adoption.
Start with the 'why' when adopting new technologies.
Ethics in AI must be prioritised to avoid negative consequences.
The world is changing due to climate change and technology.
Collaboration is key to effective climate action.

Chapters:

00:00 – Transforming Sustainability with Data-Driven Infrastructure

03:05 – The Role of AI and IoT in Enterprises

09:10 – Challenges in Operational Efficiency and Sustainability

13:42 – Real-World Impact of AI and IoT

16:57 – Carbon Markets and Digital Solutions

21:08 – Understanding Greenwashing

23:30 – Barriers to Technology Adoption

26:17 – Key Takeaways and Predictions

About Akanksha Sharma

Akanksha Sharma leads the ClimateTech and Digital Utilities programmes at GSMA, where she drives innovation at the intersection of mobile technology and sustainability. Since joining GSMA in 2012, she has specialised in leveraging mobile and digital solutions for social impact, with extensive experience in research and data-driven insights through her roles at GSMA Intelligence and Mobile for Development’s Central Insights Unit.

Before GSMA, Akanksha worked as a Power and Utilities Analyst at GlobalData in India, bringing deep sector knowledge to her current focus on transforming utility services through digital technologies. She holds an MBA from IBS Hyderabad and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Rajasthan University, India.