FEATURE

Global warming
Let’s fight it together
Global warming is a widely held concern. Our planet is getting hotter, and the consequences may impact all of us.

Already, the higher temperatures are changing our weather, melting our glaciers and arctic ice caps, and contributing to desertification in Africa and Asia. If current conditions remain unchecked, sea levels will rise and flooding may force millions to leave their homes.

Those studying this phenomenon are largely in agreement on its cause. Carbon dioxide (CO2) and other harmful gases accumulating in our atmosphere prevent sunlight from escaping back into space. This greenhouse effect traps the light, pushing up the planet’s temperature.

There is a solution
Many agree that reducing the amount of CO2 in our atmosphere will allow solar radiation to more readily return to space. This solution depends on a worldwide effort to burn less fossil fuel, the leading source of CO2.

By developing alternative sources of energy, running our factories and power plants more efficiently, and operating our vehicles as needed, we can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. Many of our customers are already addressing these objectives with solutions based on our products. For instance, manufacturers rely on our software to drive production efficiency and target customer orders and market demand. Among the many benefits they experience are reduced material waste and energy usage

More electric companies are turning to our software as well. Operators of power plants that run on fossil fuel or nuclear energy increasingly rely on our software in matching production to demand. These companies include Pacific Gas and Electric, a leading utility company in the United States; and AREVA, a company dedicated to producing energy without producing CO2.

Power companies are also using our software to exploit other sources of energy. ILOG CPLEX-based solutions from Powel ASA enable hydroelectric plants to adjust production to demand throughout the day and give countries across Europe a reliable, nonpolluting source of electricity.

In transportation, logistics services group and route orders to deliver faster and cut fuel consumption; seaport operators and ship owners organize shipping operations to move cargo quickly and efficiently; public transportation services improve service while operating fewer vehicles; and airlines sync flight schedules to passenger demand – all with solutions based on ILOG software.

Commitment to fight global warming
We’re in the first decade of a new century. Now is the perfect time to commit ourselves to finding solutions to this problem. The discoveries we make are sure to better our lives in many ways.