What role can technology play in keeping the security industry green?

Security systems aren’t a huge consumer of energy, so promotion of lower-energy-use cameras or other components can’t really have that much impact. Even so, with more emphasis on corporate-wide green efforts, it’s helpful that security can at least contribute. Solar-powered cameras, low-light cameras (requiring less ambient light), and even wireless systems (requiring less environmental disruption) all play a part. Security equipment can also be used to save energy; for example, by tying access control into lighting and/or heating/cooling systems to minimize energy usage when buildings are empty. Disposal of security equipment at end-of-life can negatively impact the waste stream. With shorter life cycles, the problem is worse, but recycling efforts can help. A system that re-uses cabling or other existing equipment can also minimise waste; examples include re-using coaxial cabling to transmit IP signals in a networked system. Several large manufacturers have invested to improve their environmental record, and customers can reward those efforts by considering suppliers’ green records when buying. 

Such is ‘greenwash’ in the media. Let’s consider minimising use of materials & energy in manufacturing, distribution, operation, maintenance, disposal and recycling. First, the most basic approach: don’t deploy gear unless it is essential! Next, try passive measures: will a locked door suffice instead of a CCTV camera and RAID5 server? Like many headlines, buyers often simply consider low power consumption. Renewable energy sources can be expensive and low capacity, so low power security devices are essential, but are they ‘green’ over their full lifecycle? Although LED lamps use only 10% of incandescent power, they cost much more and then need replacing much more often because of poor power conversion electronics and thermal dissipation. So, which technology is greener in the long run? It remains to be seen how effective are prototype devices that harvest their power from radio waves in the air around them. Yes, I kid you not.

The impact of mobile key systems will be transformative for keeping the security industry green. The ability to issue secure credentials over the air has a huge effect on the environmental impact of our industry. Think of the plastic cards saved, the trips to re-key saved, the total energy saved. Mobile keys will also pave the way for tighter integration into building automation systems, allowing lights to be turned off and heating and air conditioning systems to be adjusted based on actual room occupancy.