What if security solutions could help your business reach its sustainability goals?

Entering 2025, business sustainability is no longer optional but necessary. Companies that don't integrate sustainability into their business strategy risk falling behind as regulations tighten and customer expectations shift. 

When I started as a summer intern at Gallagher in 2012, I never imagined I'd still be here 13 years later, leading a team of engineers and pushing boundaries in security technology. However, one thing has remained constant since day one: my passion for sustainability. 

I've always believed that every 1 per cent matters. It's easy to think small changes don't make a difference, but if no one starts, no progress happens. Whether it's turning off appliances at home or making sure recycling is communicated at work, each step moves us in the right direction, no matter how small.  

Traditionally, Security has been about keeping people and places safe. But what if security systems could also help businesses achieve their sustainability goals? What if the technology we use to control access, lighting, and building automation could also reduce energy consumption, minimise waste, and create healthier environments? 

Sustainability within Security 

When talking about sustainability in Security, we focus on two key areas. The first is reducing the energy consumption of our products and how our products help reduce the overall energy consumption of the business's operations. The second encompasses extending the product lifespan. While we are trying to absorb or reduce the amount of energy used, the product is also in use for longer, reducing replacement, and benefiting the environment long term. 

At Gallagher, it's not just about power savings; we're also mindful of the materials we use. While we meet government standards, we also ensure our components are safe, using recyclable plastics where possible, and designing products that last longer to reduce replacement. 

Unlocking more for our customers 

Here's how businesses around the world are discovering that security systems can be powerful sustainability tools: 

A local boarding school, St. Peter's Cambridge, needed round-the-clock heating, lighting, and air conditioning. That all comes at a cost. By integrating security solutions with building management, they cut their energy consumption by 30%.  Smaller New Zealand schools spend around 12,000 to 36,000 on power per year, which equals $3,600 to 10,800 in power cost savings annually. 

Or Bogotá Energy Group, a company where environmental and social responsibility are woven into every business decision, including Security. By integrating access control with energy management, the company reduced support battery use by 50%, cutting energy consumption and minimising waste. In addition, switching to digital access eliminated the need for 300 plastic access cards annually, significantly reducing their environmental footprint. 

Lastly, Metcalfe County Schools experienced improved air quality and, in turn, healthier classrooms. When our sensors flagged poor air quality in specific classrooms, the school discovered a malfunctioning air unit. Addressing the issue created a healthier learning environment, showcasing the system's dual benefits for health and business social sustainability. 

What does the future of sustainability in Security look like? 

Business sustainability is becoming imperative, and it is charged with evolving regulations, customer expectations, and the need to address global challenges. Yet, many companies are overlooking opportunities to use existing systems that target their sustainability goals. 

That's why we're exploring how industries want to use our security systems to achieve their sustainability goals. If our products can make operations more efficient and businesses more sustainable, we want to make it happen. 

I'm also excited about the growing focus on sustainability in manufacturing. We live in a throwaway culture that has created many environmental problems. We can create a more responsible industry by shifting our focus to sustainability and designing longer-lasting products.  

Taking the first step to embracing sustainability in business 

Security systems can do more than protect assets; they can help companies reduce energy use, minimise plastic waste, and create healthier spaces. Whether integrating building automation, switching to mobile credentials, or monitoring air quality, security technology is becoming a key player in sustainability. 

If you already have security solutions, why not discover how they can help your business achieve sustainable goals and strategies? 

My advice for anyone working to drive sustainability in their business is simple: keep pushing. The numbers won't immediately add up, and not every idea will get approved. But don't give up. Because every 1 per cent matters.