SDG 7 Case Study : BBC Greenhouse Solar Dryer Provides Affordable and Clean Energy

SDG 7, “affordable and clean energy” aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. As the world faces increasing challenges related to energy security, climate change, and environmental degradation, SDG 7 has gained significant importance in promoting sustainable energy practices.

Energy-related issues like energy poverty, climate change, and environmental degradation are addressed under SDG 7. Lack of affordable and reliable energy access impedes socioeconomic growth and makes poverty and inequality worse. In the world’s energy system, the heavy reliance on fossil fuels has negative social, economic, and health effects in addition to causing climate change. SDG 7 places a strong emphasis on the need for environmentally sound, socially inclusive, and economically viable sustainable energy practises.

Achieving SDG 7 is crucial for addressing energy-related challenges and building a sustainable future. In order to address energy-related issues and create a sustainable future, SDG 7 must be accomplished. SDG 7 may pave the path for a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future with clean energy services by fostering cooperation between organisations that represent governments, industry, civil society, and people themselves. Besides, SDG 7 has a significant impact on how the world’s energy landscape is shaped and how everyone may migrate to sustainable energy sources.

In this article, we share some sustainable business strategies for SDG 7 and how BBC Greenhouse Solar Dryer contributes to SDG 7 in Malaysia.

Sustainable Business Strategies for SDG 7

Businesses shall play active roles in achieving SDG 7 for achieving SDG 7. We summarise the sustainable strategies for achieving SDG 7:

Renewable Energy Investment: By reducing dependency on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, investments in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power may support SDG 7. Businesses might look into opportunities to invest in renewable energy projects or integrate renewable energy technologies into their operations to encourage the production of sustainable energy,
Energy Efficiency Measures: Using energy-efficient practices in business operations can assist in cutting expenses, decreasing the environmental effect, and reducing energy usage. The measures can involve installing more energy-efficient lighting, enhancing building insulation, and maximising heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Energy audits and monitoring systems can also be used to pinpoint problem areas and monitor development towards energy efficiency objectives.
Implement Circular Economy: Implementing a circular economy approach entails creating goods and services that minimise waste, encourage resource reuse, and recycle materials. For instance, companies can undertake recycling campaigns, remanufacturing, and product life extension. This can promote sustainable production and consumption patterns, minimise waste, and aid in achieving SDG 7.
Promoting Energy Conservation: Businesses may encourage their staff and clients to conserve energy. They can encourage staff members to utilise energy-efficient appliances, turn off lights and laptops when not in use, and use less paper. Additionally, they can instruct their clients on the value of energy saving and how to lower energy use.
Energy Access Solutions for Underserved Communities: Several areas of the world remain without access to dependable and modern energy services. By offering these neglected populations energy access options, businesses may support SDG 7. Off-grid renewable energy systems, micro-grids, or portable solar-powered devices, which can supply clean energy for lighting, cooking, and other fundamental needs, can be implemented this way.

Case study: An innovative solution by BBC – Greenhouse Solar Dryer to contribute to SDG 7 in Malaysia

SDG 7 addresses access to clean and modern energy services, which is a critical component of sustainable development (SDG 7). Like many other nations, Malaysia deals with issues like energy inefficiency, climate change, and environmental deterioration. In light of this, sustainable business practices that support SDG 7 have arisen, including the adoption of novel technologies like Greenhouse Solar Dryers. BBC innovated Greenhouse Solar Dryer to provide an affordable solution for small-scale farmers by using clean and renewable energy. This case study shares the background, challenges, solutions, and impacts of Greenhouse Solar Dryers on local communities and their contribution to SDG 7.

Background

The substantial agricultural sector of Malaysia, a Southeast Asian nation renowned for its tropical climate, heavily relies on drying as a typical means of food preservation. Nevertheless, conventional drying techniques frequently include burning fossil fuels like firewood or diesel, which has a severe impact on the environment by causing air pollution, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. However, these conventional techniques might not always be efficient or affordable, particularly for small-scale farmers in rural areas.

Challenges

The use of fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and environmental degradation, as well as the absence of economical and dependable energy sources for drying operations are issues facing Malaysia’s agricultural sector in relation to drying procedures. Besides, open sun drying is less hygienic, and the quality and marketability of dried items can be impacted by traditional drying technologies’ uneven drying, loss of nutritional value in food products, and extended drying times. To solve these issues and support SDG 7 in Malaysia, innovative and sustainable solutions are required.

Solutions

The invention of a Greenhouse Solar Dryer offers a sustainable option that supports SDG 7’s objectives. With less dependency on conventional drying and traditional drying, Greenhouse Solar Dryers use the solar energy to generate heat for drying purposes. These dryers are built with features including optimum ventilation, temperature control, and even drying, leading to dried goods of a greater quality and more market value. They provide access to economical and dependable electricity for drying purposes for small-scale farmers, rural communities, and food processing enterprises.

Greenhouse Solar Dryer involves the design, fabrication, and distribution of solar dryers to agricultural communities and food processing industries. BBC also provides training and technical support to users, as well as conducts research and development to continuously improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the dryers. We aim to create positive social and environmental impacts while generating revenue.

Impact

The innovation has had a substantial influence across several domains, advancing sustainable development and helping achieve SDG 7. First, the farmers, businesses, and manufacturers have lessened their impact on air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by using less conventional drying methods such as oven drying. In line with SDG 7 aims for renewable energy and environmental conservation, this has helped to mitigate climate change and promote environmental sustainability.

Secondly, the innovation has increased the quality and market value of dried items by using optimal ventilation, temperature control, and even drying in solar dryers. This has helped to achieve SDG 7 targets for eradicating poverty, generating income, and rural development by increasing farmer income and enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities. Per SDG 7’s aims for education and empowerment, the company has also given users training and technical support, equipping them with knowledge and skills in sustainable energy practices and fostering capacity building and human development. Lastly, Greenhouse Solar Dryer has proven a sustainable business model that blends revenue growth with social and environmental impact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BBC’s Greenhouse Solar Dryer is making significant strides in contributing to SDG 7 by promoting sustainable energy practices and addressing energy-related challenges. The adoption of greenhouse solar dryers has not only addressed the issues of energy poverty, environmental degradation, and air pollution but has also brought about positive economic and social impacts. In addition, solar energy makes the drying industry more environmentally sustainable. Additionally, Greenhouse Solar Dryer has increased access to clean energy services, improved workers’ health and safety conditions, and contributed to poverty reduction.

It is crucial that businesses take an active role in achieving SDG 7. Our Greenhouse Solar Dryer illustrates of how businesses may contribute significantly to the advancement of sustainable energy methods while producing positive effects on the economy and society. Businesses may encourage the adoption of renewable energy technology, advance energy efficiency, and support sustainable energy transitions through innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration.