Today, the integrated development of industrial zones goes beyond the construction of factories. In addition to the fact that the plants themselves are now high-tech and innovative industries, the vector of development of industrial zones is aimed at introducing environmental principles, as well as creating and developing a comfortable social environment.
Introduction of modern technologies and innovations
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) radically changes the principles of production organization, integrating advanced digital technologies, total process automation and intelligent systems that can independently analyze data and make decisions.
Digital transformation is becoming a key priority for industry. Even under conditions of sanctions pressure, almost two-thirds of Russian companies in 2022 retained investments in digital technologies, and 16% increased their volumes. This demonstrates the understanding of the business: the introduction of digital solutions affects the efficiency and growth prospects directly.
Digital tools are becoming an integral part of sustainable development. They help businesses control emissions, minimize waste and fine-tune production processes to reduce environmental footprint.
Companies that have already passed the basic stage of digitalization – automation of technological processes, are moving on to deeper transformations: the introduction of “smart” solutions in all areas of activity, from logistics to customer service.
For example, a resident of one of the leading SEZs (special economic zone) of the Moscow Region has developed and produces smart meters – innovative and energy-efficient water and heat meters for the housing and communal services sector. The latest development of the company is a multifunctional digital platform designed for remote collection and analysis of data from energy metering devices. Data is transmitted using wired systems or via a radio channel. After that, they are sent to regional digital systems.
The use of this innovative solution not just increased the standard of living and comfort of people, but also saved man-hours for management companies, since there is no longer any need for the work of linemen and inspectors. The digital platform stores and provides cost analytics to users. Thus, it is possible to reduce water and heat consumption, which ultimately will help save the planet’s resources. It is clear that the competitiveness of this company not only in Russia, but also in the world is obvious.
Another Russian company built a plant and launched the production of a full cycle of digital printing on natural fabrics and knitwear. Innovations in the form of software allow technologists to develop fabric design and implement their machine cutting for further sewing products. All this brought the company to the leaders in production in its industry.
The most important component of the future development of industrial areas is AI, which analyzes data arrays, predicts trends and helps to make more accurate management decisions. This is not just a technological trend, but a tool without which it is difficult to imagine the future of a competitive industry.
Concern for ecology and social well-being
According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the use of raw materials could double by 2060, adding to the existing environmental burden. Companies focused on environmental responsibility not just reduce carbon dioxide emissions, but also introduce water reuse systems, and turn production waste into raw materials to create new products.
Here I would like to highlight several areas in the development of industrial zones that reduce the environmental burden:
1) Introduction of innovative technologies in the production of industrial parks.
This becomes not just a competitive advantage, but a question of the sustainability of business and the economy as a whole.
2) Creation of industrial clusters.
The application of the cluster approach can be considered as the main feature of all highly developed economies in the world.
The compact location of a dozen enterprises in one industry makes their interaction cost-effective for them, for the regional economy and for the environment:
- resource consumption is reduced due to the closed-cycle economy and cooperation;
- businesses benefit from shared infrastructure, logistics and supply chains, resulting in lower costs;
- companies can share experience, develop technologies together and optimize production processes.
This interaction helps reduce production costs and accelerates innovation. Within the cluster, businesses achieve a high degree of synergy, which allows them to create better, greener and more competitive solutions for the market.
3) Circular economy.
Within the industrial zone, a symbiosis of companies from different industries can also take place, where production waste from one company becomes raw materials for the production process of another one. For example, when waste from the production of flour paste can serve as raw materials for the production of animal feed.
This interaction significantly reduces the potential burden on the environment. In addition, companies save resources significantly.
Another good example of a closed-cycle economy, but within the same plant, is the production of a resident of a SEZ near Moscow. This plastic waste company produces film raw materials for other manufacturers of flexible packaging.
SEZ management companies today increasingly prefer such investors.
4) Creation of industrial ecoparks.
Industrial eco-parks are becoming a key area for the development of special economic zones. These are not just clusters of industrial enterprises, but multifunctional spaces where production, recreation and a comfortable urban environment are harmoniously combined. Here, every detail is thought out for the convenience of work, rest, communication and health care.
So far, unfortunately, there are only a few such territories in Russia. And this is perceived more as a miracle. But the model of an industrial ecopark with a developed comfortable social environment is the future in the sustainable development strategy of many countries.
According to Linkedin founder Reid Hoffman, in 10 years the concept of a “15-minute city” will become popular – when you can live, work and relax within walking distance or a couple of minutes by bike.
Today there are examples of SEZs near Moscow, for example, private ones, approaching the development of the territory comprehensively. Due to private investment, modern residential complexes with affordable and comfortable housing are being built, as well as schools, kindergartens, sports and creative spaces. Particular attention is paid to ecology – park areas, green spaces and places for outdoor recreation are being created. All this has one goal – to improve the quality of life of people and make them happy.
By Ekaterina Evdokimova, co-founder and managing partner of the first private SEZ “Stupino KVADRAT” in Russia