Smart buildingsare leveraging advanced monitoring byusing the building’s network as a sensorto optimize equipment and quantify energy consumption. By collecting and analyzing data from various systems like HVAC, lighting, and security, smart buildings can automatically adjust settings to reduce resource use when not needed, such as dimming lights in unoccupied areas or optimizing heating andcooling based on occupancy patterns. This approach helps reduce energy consumption, improve operational efficiency, and lower costs while supporting sustainability goals.

Using the network as a sensor allows for real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making, enabling building managers to make informed adjustments that reduce environmental impact.

Environmental Sustainability References:

Cisco. (2021).Smart Buildings and Network-Based Monitoring for Energy Efficiency.

International Energy Agency (IEA). (2020).Smart Building Technology for Energy Optimization and Sustainability.

U.S. Green Building Council. (2021).Leveraging Smart Technologies to Improve Building Performance.

Cisco plans to reduce its environmental footprint by implementing a strategy focused on100% product return, repair, remanufacture, refurbish, and recycle. This approach aligns with the principles of thecircular economy, which aims to keep products and materials in use for as long as possible, thereby minimizing waste and resource consumption. By ensuring that products are returned for repair orremanufacturing instead of being discarded, Cisco reduces the need for new raw materials and cuts down on electronic waste, contributing to a more sustainable supply chain.

This commitment also reflects Cisco’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions, promoting resource efficiency, and fostering sustainability across its product lifecycle.

Environmental Sustainability References:

Cisco. (2022).Circular Economy and Product Lifecycle Strategies for Sustainability.

Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2021).Cisco's Role in the Circular Economy and Reducing Environmental Impact.

World Economic Forum. (2021).Sustainability Through Circular Practices in Technology Companies.

A partner can establish a sustainability practice bysetting sustainability goals and publicizing them on their webpage. This not only demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility but also increases transparency and accountability. Setting clear, measurable goals, such as reducing energyconsumption or increasing the use of renewable resources, helps guide the partner’s internal operations and builds trust with clients and stakeholders. Publicizing these goals on the website allows customers, investors, and partners to see the company’s sustainability efforts, which can lead to new business opportunities and compliance with industry standards.

Environmental Sustainability References:

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). (2021).Sustainability Goal Setting and Corporate Transparency.

United Nations Global Compact. (2020).Communicating Corporate Sustainability Commitments.

McKinsey & Company. (2021).Sustainability Practices and Public Accountability in Business.