While Africa is still in the early stages of harnessing the transformative power of the metaverse (a virtual 3D realm where the physical and the virtual meet), we identify African businesses that are already finding ground with this technology. It is important to do so.
Throughout this report, we discuss the role of African businesses in mitigating today’s climate challenges, including natural resource depletion, air pollution, sea level rise, biodiversity loss, economic costs, and negative health impacts.
Understanding the impact of the metaverse on climate change
A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Cornell University shows that the metaverse has real environmental benefits. According to their analysis, this emerging technology could significantly cool the Earth’s surface, reducing surface temperatures by about 0.02 degrees Celsius by the end of the 21st century.
The role of African companies
Introduction of renewable energy solutions
nigerian lady has already begun to lead the way in reducing the world’s carbon footprint by embracing renewable resources such as solar and wind power to provide clean and environmentally friendly alternatives. Through the Reeddi Capsule, the climate technology organization provides affordable clean energy power solutions to thousands of homes and businesses while minimizing consumers’ dependence on fossil fuels.
Green data center availability
To align as a technological force, Kenya launched its first and fully green data center, the Olkaria ExoCloud Data Center, in September 2023. The project is a joint venture between Kenya Electricity Generation Company (KenGen) and Konza Technopolis. The KoTDA and local investors will rely entirely on geothermal energy. This represents a commendable step towards sustainable and environmentally responsible industrial development on the continent.
Reducing physical travel
major telecommunications company MTN It became the first company to purchase a parcel of virtual land in Africa’s first Metaverse. Ubutuland.The immersive nature of collaboration between MTN and African LaleThe South African parent company of Ubutuland is expected to help overcome behavioral barriers to climate action while reducing the carbon footprint associated with brick-and-mortar activities and emissions.
Similarly, at another company, QZWe held our first ever event. #flexnaija In Lagos, Nigeria, content creators from the fashion and entertainment industries came together virtually to showcase their creative and imaginative talents in a mixed reality (MR) experience. If others adopt this approach, it could effectively limit physical movement, significantly save energy and resources, and potentially reduce fuel usage and toxic gas emissions.
awareness and education
Companies like Nigeria Imishi 3D and Kenya’s black rhino began its work as a metaverse catalyst, successfully educating and creating awareness about the environmental value of technology among stakeholders, employees, and consumers. Through their efforts, both companies are laying the foundation for fostering a culture of sustainability and encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies.
conclusion
When harnessed properly, the Metaverse can enable Africa’s rich cultural heritage and growing startup ecosystem to showcase sustainable practices and leverage technological innovations for environmental protection.
Companies can save costs, foster innovation, and reduce emissions by charting their industrial systems and identifying ideal ways to operate them.
Transportation companies can use the Metaverse for network modeling, which means fewer trucks on the road and fewer planes on the ground. Additionally, minimizing energy consumption in certain locations, such as kiosks and hotels, can significantly reduce emissions.
The introduction of Metaverse will not only position these small businesses as a green alternative, but also make them more attractive to investors and consumers.
