Huawei’s Tech Odyssey: Spearheading Sustainable Innovations for a Greener Tomorrow
By Faridat Salifu
As the world begins the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), the pivotal role of digital technology in driving ecological transitions is taking center stage.
Adnane Ben Halima, Vice President of Public Relations at Huawei Northern Africa, emphasizes the critical importance of technology in propelling Africa’s economic growth and industrial advancement, especially in the establishment of smart and sustainable cities.
Huawei’s commitment to sustainable technology is evident through initiatives like the Green Tower in Egypt and various innovative urban projects.
These endeavors showcase the substantial impact of digital technology in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, focusing on optimizing energy management and decarbonizing infrastructures.
In an insightful interview with Jean Marie Takouleu, Adnane Ben Halima addresses Huawei’s approach to decarbonizing digital infrastructures, highlighting the incorporation of renewable energies and advancements in energy efficiency.
The Green Tower in Egypt stands as a testament to Huawei’s dedication, utilizing innovative fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) technology to reduce energy consumption by nearly 40%.
Considering the environmental impact of digital infrastructures, particularly data centers, Huawei prioritizes environmental responsibility. Ben Halima outlines Huawei’s efforts in adopting natural cooling systems and optimizing energy consumption.
Noteworthy achievements include a significant reduction in the bit/watt ratio in 5G sites, leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced technologies for optimal network performance and reduced environmental impact.
Huawei’s dual ambition is evident — to develop technologies benefiting society while ensuring their sustainability. Adnane Ben Halima emphasizes the potential for a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, aligning with the Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSi).
Addressing cross-cutting innovations, Huawei asserts the crucial role of digital technology in supporting the transformation of all industrial sectors to meet sustainability imperatives.
Projects like “Smart Irrigation” in Morocco exemplify the application of AI, 5G, and Big Data technologies in diverse fields, including agriculture, with substantial water savings and increased agricultural production.
The interview further explores Huawei’s role in optimizing energy distribution networks and producing green energy through smart grid and renewable energy solutions.
Huawei’s contributions have resulted in a reduction of CO2 emissions by 170 million tonnes, equivalent to planting 220 million trees over the past decade.
Regarding urban development, Huawei acknowledges the environmental impact of constructing new cities but emphasizes the inevitability of new constructions due to global population growth.
Digital technology, particularly Huawei’s Smart City solution, plays a central role in developing green, intelligent cities. Through AI and Big Data, resources like energy and water are efficiently managed, reducing the ecological footprint and contributing to the creation of more efficient and sustainable homes.
In essence, Huawei’s technological endeavors underscore a commitment to a greener tomorrow, where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand, paving the way for a brighter and more eco-conscious future.