Kelsie McMillin, Senior Technology Marketing Specialist, IoT for DigiKey focuses on the industries in which IoT is a key tool supporting sustainability
The IoT has evolved far beyond its initial promise of simply connecting devices. In 2025, IoT is expected to emerge as a powerful force in advancing sustainability initiatives across industries, helping organisations reduce their environmental impact while improving operational efficiency.
Building management
Modern buildings are now equipped with interconnected sensors that continuously monitor energy usage, occupancy patterns, and environmental conditions. AI-powered building management systems use this data to automatically optimise HVAC systems, lighting, and other utilities in real-time. This offers a significant reduction of energy usage, which not only helps cut their carbon footprint but also offers cost savings, which helps create cash flow for future sustainability projects.
Agriculture
IoT sensors in agriculture are transforming how crops are produced. Soil moisture sensors, weather stations and drone-based imaging systems provide farmers with granular data about their fields to help maximise yield. Precision irrigation scheduling can reduce water waste by up to 40% while maintaining or improving yield. IoT solutions assist in planting through field mapping, tracking soil health, and targeted application of resources like crop protection and fertilizer, minimising the amount needed. Small-scale farmers are increasingly adopting these technologies thanks to more affordable IoT solutions and many lower-cost, reliable connectivity options.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing facilities are leveraging IoT devices to monitor and optimise their production processes. Smart meters and sensors track energy consumption, water usage and waste production in real-time. Predictive maintenance algorithms prevent equipment failures, reducing downtime and unnecessary resource consumption. Utilizing IoT-enabled inventory systems allows for order optimisation, minimal overstock, and traceability of items in the warehouse and as they are shipped.
Municipal management
City administrators are deploying IoT networks to manage resources more efficiently. Smart street lighting systems automatically adjust brightness based on natural light and foot traffic. Connected waste management systems optimise collection routes and promote recycling. Smart water networks detect leaks instantly, saving millions of gallons of water annually. Bike and scooter shares allow for reduced emissions, and by utilising IoT, users can easily locate them, and owners can monitor the charging status.
IoT in 2025
While IoT continues to drive sustainability initiatives, challenges remain. Device durability, battery life and electronic waste are ongoing concerns in 2025 and beyond. However, innovations in biodegradable electronics and energy harvesting technologies are promising solutions. Integrating IoT with renewable energy systems and circular economy principles will likely define the next phase of sustainable technology. As a distribution leader in IoT products, DigiKey offers a wide variety of solutions to aid in sustainable practices across industries, including many available from Analog Devices.
IoT technology has become an indispensable tool in the fight against climate change and resource depletion. As these systems become more sophisticated and accessible, we expect even greater adoption across industries, leading to a more sustainable future.
Kelsie McMillin is a senior technology marketing specialist for IoT at DigiKey. DigiKey is both the leader and continuous innovator in the high service distribution of electronic components and automation products worldwide, providing more than 15.9 million components from over 3,000 quality name-brand manufacturers. To learn more about DigiKey, click here.
Author: Kelsie McMillin, Senior Technology Marketing Specialist, IoT for DigiKey
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