There is an increasing need to be more eco-friendly towards the environment and the same applies to technology. Let’s find out what green tech trends will be big this year.
1. SELF-PROGRAMMING HOUSEHOLD GADGETS
One big concept that will be popular in 2014 is “bring-your-own-thermostat,” according to Green Tech Media.
- Nest thermostat –The Nest Learning Thermostat can learn about you and program itself around your schedule and also allows you to control its functionality from your smartphone.The thermostat even has an “Auto-AwayTM” feature.
- Google’s “EnergySense” program – It is still in the experimental phase and Google has partnered with Mountain View to conduct “a trial of Internet-connected thermostats to help users keep tabs on their energy use and adjust accordingly.”
2. FIBER OPTICS
2014 might see an up- surge in fiber-optic products and services.
- Fiber-optic lighting –This lighting option is great for homeowners who want to increase efficiency of their indoor and outdoor lighting.Fiber-optic light bulbswork by transmitting “light from a single bulb…[that] can be changed easily whenever it burns out.” The works on the cables which don’t have to carry electricity, so they don’t heat up or pose a fire risk.
- Fiber-optic Internet –Two popular fiber-optic Internet providers, Google Fiber and Verizon FiOS, have rolled out this super-fast Internet service in several locations throughout the United States. Speeds can reach up to 500 Mbps-1 Gbps in some areas. Fiber-optic Internet signals are kept strong over fiber optics, whereas they lessen over copper wires. Therefore, fiber-optic Internet uses less energy, saving money and resources.
3. GREEN CARS
More and more consumers are turning to energy-efficient cars that cut down on emissions and save them some money. From diesels to hybrids to full on electric vehicles, owners hve their choices.
- More efficient electric cars –Greencarreports.comgives the 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV “the highest EPA combined efficiency rating of any plug-in electric car sold in the U.S. today.” With this car expect 119 MPGe, the Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Volt, come in at 115 MPGe and 98 MPGe respectively and Tesla, rates its Model S at 89 MPGe.
- More power and more options for hybrids –2014 hybrid models of some of the most popular mid-size sedans on the market now, including the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima and Toyota Camry, will be still popular. The coming year may see more luxury hybrid models from “European brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen.”