There is a strong element of convergence within the energy and environmental sector when seen within the context of other verticals, such as information and communication technologies (ICT), chemicals and automotive. Convergence is rapidly leading to a cross-pollination of industry expertise, as organisations start to acknowledge how one business sector influences another.
In the world of chemicals and materials, for example, convergence is happening with the advent of 'green', where chemicals are being driven to be more environmentally friendly and to enhance the concept of being energy smart.
During the congress, Frost & Sullivan will present some of the key trends influencing the African landscape. These new mega trends include Smart Cities, Connected Living, New Business Models, Energy Efficiency, Cleaner Energy, Water Stress, Water and Waste, Smart Chemicals and others. It will also host an executive CEO panel debate that will discuss convergence in Africa and a number of issues faced by CEOs and their management teams today.
"Smart chemicals and materials are being developed to encourage energy efficiency in the use of insulation materials and paints, for example, that reduce the need for heating and cooling in smart buildings," says Frost & Sullivan Business Unit Leader for Energy and Environment, Aurelia van Eeden. "In the automotive industry, smart components reduce the weight and thus fuel consumption on the road and there is an incorporation of more natural materials into cars, which is leading adhesives to evolve and become less harmful to the environment."
Additionally, fuels are increasingly being developed from biological sources, such as the development of jet fuel for SAA from Solaris tobacco and the use of landfill waste to generate gas power in municipal areas. Water management is also becoming more modular and is being combined with renewable energy sources to remove water treatment from the power grid; thus becoming more cost effective and sustainable.
There are fast-changing business models within the dynamic areas of ICT, energy and environment, and healthcare and chemicals. This subsequently provides commercial opportunities and risks that need to be addressed. Companies in Africa that are able to adapt to the changing environment stand to increase their chances of being sustainable over the medium to longer term. For more information, click here.
