Isaac Asimov, known for his prolific science fiction writing, is remembered for his three laws of robotics. These laws set the guidelines for a harmonious relationship between humans and robots: robots must not harm humans, must obey human commands, and must protect themselves. Asimov, a pioneer in modern ecology, might have added a fourth law today: a robot should prioritize environmental care. Can scientific and technological advancements help achieve this?
The University of Leeds in the UK has adopted a proactive approach by engaging in “horizon scanning,” a form of scientific prediction involving interviews with a hundred scientists worldwide. The focus is on understanding the potential goals and challenges of robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) in supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
How will robotic and autonomous systems impact the SDGs?
A survey conducted among scientists and published in the journal Nature reveals that 58% believe that autonomous tasks can lead to positive outcomes for the SDGs in various fields of expertise. Examples include improving crop production, managing aquaculture, processing food, managing waste, eradicating invasive species, and handling water resources.
Furthermore, 78% of experts foresee SARs playing a key role in monitoring and data collection for informed decision-making related to the SDGs. This includes tasks such as monitoring resource distribution, wildlife, water quality, and illegal fishing, which can aid effective public sector planning.
While there are potential benefits such as fostering innovation within the SDGs, scientists also highlighted several threats posed by RAS. These include concerns about rising inequality due to limited RAS access, rapid changes in labor markets, and impacts on biodiversity. Despite these challenges, no SDG is seen as negatively impacted by RAS, with the majority believing that seven SDGs will experience positive effects.
The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainability criteria during RAS development and implementation, along with fostering collaboration among all stakeholders to mitigate negative consequences.
Advancements in sustainable robotics in practice
Apart from scientific projections, significant progress is already being made in applying robotics for sustainable purposes. Here are some noteworthy examples:
- Using drones to combat air pollution: Initiatives like a recent MIT project focus on drone technology to monitor air pollution in urban areas, providing more accurate data compared to traditional methods.
- Robotics in recycling: Innovations using artificial vision and robotic arms are enhancing the efficiency of waste processing and recycling.
- Ocean cleanup efforts: Projects like SWARMs are exploring the use of autonomous vehicles to clean up underwater debris and monitor ocean pollution.
- Robots for studying marine life: Autonomous robots are enabling researchers to study sea life in remote areas for extended periods, offering new insights into marine ecosystems.
- Robotic farming: Robot-assisted hydroponic farms are increasing crop productivity and bringing agriculture closer to urban centers, aligning with sustainable goals.
Robotics and artificial intelligence are poised to play a vital role in promoting sustainability, alongside renewable energy technologies, in combatting climate change and building a greener economy.
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