We live in an era where protecting the planet and building a sustainable future is becoming more and more critical each day! However, we also live in an era where innovation is defining future trends. But can we live in a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand? Or better still, can innovation drive a sustainable future helping us get the best that technology has to offer? At a recent sustainability event in Dubai, Acer did hint at this future, but I still had some burning questions. Won’t the push for sustainability affect innovation? How will AI help in a sustainable future? How does this affect the supply chain and logistics for brands like Acer who rely on other for raw materials, etc.? Fortunately for me, Sooraj Balakrishnan, Head of Marketing, Acer India had some very interesting answers!
Acer has had a very strong push for sustainability among its products and offerings. Can you shed some light on this?
Our commitment to sustainability is evident in both our products and initiatives. In recent years, we have made significant progress in reducing the carbon footprint by introducing products crafted from recycled materials and utilizing 100% recycled packaging. Our Aspire Vero product has spearheaded a movement towards sustainable computing, and we have since expanded our sustainable product line to include offerings such as the Travel Mate Vero Green PC and Vero monitors, all meeting international sustainability standards. In addition to our product efforts, we are dedicated to achieving carbon neutrality. To this end, we have joined the RE100 initiative with the goal of attaining 100% renewable electricity by 2035 and committing to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. In 2023, our commitment to sustainability was recognized by global sustainability indices, underscoring our integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into our corporate agenda. We are not solely focused on our own operations; we are also holding our suppliers accountable to high standards, setting ambitious targets to minimize their carbon impact. Looking ahead, we are enthusiastic about expanding our sustainable product offerings. By continuing to prioritize sustainability, we aim to not only reduce our carbon footprint but also contribute to a healthier planet for generations to come.
Do you think sustainability will affect innovation? Especially in areas/products where the performance of the device is key?
I would say, sustainability can drive innovation. Companies recognize that sustainability offers both ethical benefits and business opportunities. By integrating sustainable practices into product development, companies can meet the demand for eco-friendly solutions and drive innovation. It might involve rethinking design approaches, optimizing materials and manufacturing processes, or using renewable energy sources. Sustainability-driven innovation encourages collaboration and cross-disciplinary thinking, presenting exciting opportunities for businesses to differentiate themselves, meet consumer expectations, and contribute positively to the planet.
Does Acer view the AI push as something that can help with its sustainability goal?
At Acer, we firmly believe that harnessing the power of AI can significantly support our sustainability objectives. By integrating AI into our devices, we enhance power optimization and energy efficiency, fostering a technology ecosystem that aligns with our sustainability goals. This integration reduces the need for continuous cloud data transfer, resulting in lower environmental impact and increased operational efficiency. Additionally, AI facilitates energy management by analyzing consumption patterns and identifying opportunities for energy conservation, further advancing our commitment to sustainability. In terms of product lifecycle management, AI-driven systems optimize our supply chain by focusing on route optimization and enhancing production processes, thereby reducing transportation emissions and promoting environmental sustainability. Acer recognizes AI as a valuable tool for assessing environmental impact across various operational aspects, from materials sourcing to end-of-life disposal practices. By strategically incorporating AI into these areas, Acer aims to elevate its sustainability practices and minimize its overall environmental footprint, reinforcing our dedication to eco-friendly initiatives.
Can you shed light on some of your eco-friendly products?
Certainly! We take great pride in our unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability and our eco-friendly products are a testament to this commitment. Our Vero series exemplifies our innovative approach to integrating cutting-edge technology with environmentally conscious design principles. From our TravelMate Vero laptops to our Vero monitors and air purifiers, we continuously strive to minimize our ecological footprint while setting new industry benchmarks. Our proactive efforts in developing eco-friendly products underscore our commitment to fostering a greener future in the technology sector. We are proud participants in the RE100 initiative, where we have pledged to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2035. Furthermore, our commitment extends to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. By increasingly incorporating sustainable materials across our entire product range, we remain steadfast in our mission to drive positive change and lead the way toward a more sustainable future.
How has working with supply chain and OEM/chipset partners affected your sustainability objective?
We prioritize partnering with suppliers who prioritize environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with regulations, adopting eco-friendly logistics, and demonstrating commitments to sustainability goals. By selecting responsible suppliers, we maintain our sustainability standards and contribute to a more sustainable supply chain overall. Our dedication to sustainability is evident in initiatives like our RE100 commitments, where we detail efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote responsible business practices. Through programs like Earthion, we strive to embed sustainability across all facets of our operations, including partnerships and supply chain management.
What is the weirdest use of AI you have seen?
Deepfake is one peculiar example of the use of AI. It involves algorithms generating unique and surreal images or videos, showcasing AI’s creative potential. However, it’s important to recognize the dual nature of deepfake technology, as it can produce convincing but fabricated content, posing potential risks.
One gadget you cannot live without (you cannot say your laptop)?
I would say my Acer laptop 😊 but since I cannot say that I would say my phone and Kindle
One gadget from your childhood you want your children/next generation to experience?
One gadget from my childhood that I would want the next generation to experience is the Nintendo Game Boy and Atari. Introducing today’s children to the charm of early gaming technology but also highlight the timeless appeal of retro gaming experiences and also highlight the advancements we have made as an industry.
Gadget you saw in movies that you wish became a reality.One gadget from movies that I wish became a reality is the “Hoverboard” from the Back to the Future series. Imagine zipping around town effortlessly, gliding above sidewalks and traffic, it can definitely help to beat the Bangalore traffic woes.
Your Favorite Tech Icon?
I believe Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, has made significant contributions to the industry. His leadership has steered Microsoft towards advancements in cloud computing and artificial intelligence, which is remarkable. Additionally, his leadership approach emphasizing innovation and inclusivity within the company is truly commendable.
