On Digital Twins, Sustainability, And Change

What if you could simulate the future before making a single sustainability decision?

That’s exactly what digital twins allow us to do.

A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical system, a building, a city, a supply chain, fed with real-time data and predictive algorithms. When applied to sustainability planning, it becomes a game changer.

From reducing energy use in smart buildings to modelling circular supply chains and predicting climate risk, digital twins are helping companies and governments make more informed, low-carbon, and resilient decisions.

A 2023 Capgemini report found that 57% of organizations using digital twins saw improved sustainability outcomes, especially in emissions reduction, waste management, and water efficiency.

Singapore’s urban planning agency, for example, uses a nation-wide digital twin to simulate traffic flows, solar panel efficiency, and flood risks, guiding long-term sustainability investments.

Why does this matter?

Because we can no longer afford to rely on guesswork.

Digital twins allow us to:

- Test sustainability strategies before implementation

Understand unintended consequences

- Drive operational efficiencies that reduce environmental impact

The future of sustainability strategy is data-driven, iterative, and virtual-first. Digital twins are not just a tech buzzword, they’re becoming an essential planning tool.

Are you already exploring digital twins in your sustainability work? I’d love to hear how you’re using them, or where you see the biggest potential.