How could the ‘internet of things’ revolutionise environmental governance?

The 'Internet of Things' (IoT) is the inter-networking of physical devices, vehicles, buildings, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity which enable these objects to collect and exchange data. The IoT allows objects to be sensed or controlled remotely across existing network infrastructure, creating opportunities for more direct integration of the physical world into computer-based systems, and resulting in improved efficiency, accuracy and economic benefit in addition to reduced human intervention.

Digital and sensor technologies promise the possibility of a new generation of evidence-based environmental regulation based on better, deeper and real-time environmental data. However, for this promise to be realised, some practical challenges have to be understood and overcome. 

About the speaker

Chacko Thomas is an experienced consultant and researcher in the field of energy systems, climate change regulation and policy, and carbon markets. He has over a decade of experience, providing consulting services in a wide range of sectors including mining, oil and gas, manufacturing, commercial buildings, and local, state and federal government departments.

Chacko started as an Electrical Engineer, and pursued his interest in energy and environment and completed a Masters in Energy Studies and Environmental Law.

Chacko's doctoral research lies at the intersection of 'complexity science' and environmental regulation. In the emerging reality of the Internet of Things (IoT), Chacko seeks to understand how environmental policy and regulation can be adapted to meet the needs and challenges of a rapidly evolving technological landscape. As part of his PhD candidature, Chacko aims to determine how legal frameworks will have to be re-conceptualised in the 'age of complexity'.

Drawing on an interdisciplinary approach, my research aims to identify these challenges and provide some solutions. In so doing, it hopes to contribute to the next generation of Australian environmental laws and regulation at the intersection of environmental governance, regulation and big data.