5G for greener logistics in the UK
ESA has today challenged businesses to use 5G communications to devise innovative solutions to transport goods more sustainably.
The call for ideas is being initiated in coordination with the UK Space Agency and the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, and aims to support the UK’s long-term vision for the logistics sector, which includes more efficient transport and reduced emissions.
The movement of freight keeps the country running smoothly and, given the challenges introduced during the coronavirus pandemic, doing so in a greener way is more important than ever.
5G has the potential to transform logistics by seamlessly connecting people and devices regardless of location and making useful information readily available to all, but achieving this requires the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks.
The initiative aims to foster collaboration between terrestrial and satellite network providers to support the deployment of converged networks. These will enable innovators to devise sustainable services for an efficient, competitive and low-carbon logistics industry.
Examples of potential applications of 5G include the optimisation of routes to reduce fuel consumption and air pollution, ensuring efficient delivery of goods to remote areas, and supporting the maintenance of vehicles – such as ships and trucks – by monitoring equipment.
There is also the potential to use 5G for the implementation of unmanned vehicles, including drones.
Catherine Mealing-Jones, Director of Growth at the UK Space Agency, said: “This is a great initiative to show how we can work together to help close the digital divide. Access to constant connectivity regardless of location offers huge benefits.
“We have seen through the current pandemic that logistics are vital to keeping the country going and space technology is a key part of making that happen.”
Magali Vaissiere, ESA Director of Telecommunications and Integrated Applications, said: “This is a great opportunity for ESA to join forces with the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and the UK Space Agency and prove the key role that satellite communications will play in the future converged 5G networks.”
Representatives from ESA, the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, and the UK Space Agency will meet at 10:00 BST today to take part in a live discussion about the impact of converged 5G terrestrial and satellite communication networks on business models.
The call for proposals will remain open until 15 December 2020.