As we enter 2025, sustainability is no longer a choice for businesses—it’s a necessity. Companies that fail to integrate sustainability into their strategies risk falling behind as regulations tighten and customer expectations evolve.
Reflecting on my journey from a summer intern at Gallagher in 2012 to leading a team of engineers today, one thing has always remained clear: my commitment to sustainability. I’ve always believed that every 1% improvement counts. Small changes, whether it’s switching off appliances at home or communicating recycling practices at work, collectively move us toward a more sustainable future.
Traditionally, security has been focused on safety—protecting people and property. But what if security systems could contribute to business sustainability? What if the same technology that manages access, lighting, and building automation could also lower energy consumption, reduce waste, and create healthier environments?
Sustainability in Security
At Gallagher, we approach sustainability in two key areas: energy consumption and product lifespan. First, we focus on reducing the energy usage of our products and how they, in turn, help businesses decrease their overall energy consumption. Second, we work to extend the lifespan of our products, reducing the need for replacements and ultimately benefiting the environment over time.
But sustainability isn’t just about saving power—it’s also about the materials we use. We adhere to government standards while also ensuring the components we design are safe, recyclable, and long-lasting, which minimizes the environmental impact.
Real-World Examples of Sustainability in Action
Security systems are increasingly becoming powerful tools for sustainability. Here are a few examples of how businesses around the world are using security solutions to meet their environmental goals:
St. Peter’s Cambridge, a local boarding school, faced high energy costs due to the need for round-the-clock heating, lighting, and air conditioning. By integrating security systems with building management, the school was able to cut energy consumption by 30%, saving thousands in annual energy costs.
Bogotá Energy Group, a company known for its commitment to environmental and social responsibility, integrated access control with energy management to reduce battery use by 50%. This cut energy consumption and minimized waste. The company also switched to digital access, eliminating the need for 300 plastic access cards each year, significantly reducing their environmental footprint.
Metcalfe County Schools benefited from improved air quality and healthier classrooms when security sensors detected poor air quality in certain rooms. By addressing the malfunctioning air unit, the school created a healthier learning environment while showcasing the dual benefits of security technology for both health and sustainability.
The Future of Sustainability in Security
As business sustainability becomes an imperative, driven by evolving regulations and rising customer expectations, many companies still overlook opportunities to leverage existing systems to achieve their sustainability goals.
At Gallagher, we are exploring how our security systems can help industries reach their sustainability targets. If our products can enhance operational efficiency and support sustainability, we’re committed to making it happen.
Sustainability in manufacturing is also becoming a focal point. In an age of disposable culture, we’re working to foster a more responsible industry by designing longer-lasting products that reduce environmental harm.
Taking the First Step Toward Sustainability
Security systems can do much more than protect assets; they can help businesses reduce energy use, minimize plastic waste, and create healthier spaces. Whether through building automation, switching to mobile credentials, or monitoring air quality, security technology is emerging as a key player in sustainability.
If your company already has security solutions in place, why not explore how they can help achieve your sustainability goals?
To those pushing sustainability within their businesses, my advice is simple: Keep pushing forward. Not every idea will be immediately embraced, and the results may not be immediate. But remember, every 1% improvement matters.
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