By Vishal Ahankari
In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) stand out as transformative tools, not only enhancing user experiences but also paving the way for eco-conscious practices. These immersive technologies have the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of various industries, particularly through innovative training methods that emphasise safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
Transforming Training Environments
One of the most promising applications of AR and VR is in the realm of training. Technology can help training providers create hands-on, interactive virtual learning environments that offer immersive experiences within the safety of a virtual space. This approach is particularly beneficial for industries where traditional training methods may pose significant risks or logistical challenges. For example, operating million-pound machinery or working at heights on oil and gas infrastructure can be dangerous and difficult to simulate safely. AR and VR provide a safe, effective, and scalable way for workers to learn and practise new skills without the associated risks.
Industry Adoption and Efficiency Gains
While implementing AR and VR technology can be resource-intensive initially, its long-term benefits are substantial. Leading global companies, especially in heavy industries. For instance, industries such as automobiles and infrastructure use VR to train their assembly line workers, allowing them to practise complex tasks in a virtual environment before applying their skills on the actual production floor. This method not only improves the efficiency of training sessions but also boosts overall effectiveness, leading to higher proficiency and safety standards.
Reducing Carbon Footprint
One of the most significant advantages of AR and VR training is the reduction in carbon footprint associated with traditional training methods. In heavy industries, training often requires extensive travel for both trainers and trainees, along with the use of substantial physical materials. By allowing workers to train from anywhere, VR and AR can minimise travel needs and the environmental impact associated with it. This shift not only conserves resources but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Moreover, the waste produced by actual training materials is avoided when virtual environments are used. In many industries, training exercises produce significant waste, from expendable training materials to fuel consumption in practical exercises. By moving these activities to a virtual space, industries can substantially decrease their environmental footprint.
Enhancing Safety and Reducing Accidents
Safety is a paramount concern in heavy industries, where training can sometimes lead to accidents. By leveraging VR and AR, industries can create a controlled environment where workers can make mistakes and learn from them without any real-world consequences. This ability to repeat tasks and scenarios as many times as needed until proficiency is achieved is invaluable. It ensures that when workers transition to real-world tasks, they are better prepared and less likely to cause accidents. This approach has the potential to prevent a significant number of workplace accidents, which cost industries approximately $1.25 trillion globally each year.
Sustainable Remote Inspections
AR and VR are also revolutionising the way industries conduct inspections and maintenance. By connecting directly to real machines and reproducing their operating data in a virtual environment, specialists can perform remote inspections and diagnose issues without the need to travel. This not only saves time and costs but also contributes to sustainability efforts by reducing the carbon emissions associated with travel. Virtual reality enables experts to examine data and functions from afar, ensuring that operations run smoothly and sustainably.
Eco-conscious virtual reality represents a powerful tool for reducing the carbon footprint of various industries. By transforming training environments, improving efficiency, enhancing safety, and enabling sustainable remote inspections, AR and VR are paving the way for a more environmentally friendly industrial landscape. As more companies adopt these technologies, the potential for significant environmental impact reduction becomes increasingly evident. Embracing AR and VR is not just a step towards technological advancement but also a commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices.
The author is business development lead, AutoVRse
(Views expressed are the author’s own and not necessarily those of financialexpress.com)