Goddard, MA;
Davies, ZG;
Guenat, S;
Ferguson, MJ;
Fisher, JC;
Akanni, A;
Ahjokoski, T;
... Dallimer, M; + view all
(2021)
A global horizon scan of the future impacts of robotics and autonomous systems on urban ecosystems.
Nature Ecology & Evolution
, 5
pp. 219-230.
10.1038/s41559-020-01358-z.
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Abstract
Technology is transforming societies worldwide. A major innovation is the emergence of robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), which have the potential to revolutionize cities for both people and nature. Nonetheless, the opportunities and challenges associated with RAS for urban ecosystems have yet to be considered systematically. Here, we report the findings of an online horizon scan involving 170 expert participants from 35 countries. We conclude that RAS are likely to transform land use, transport systems and human-nature interactions. The prioritized opportunities were primarily centred on the deployment of RAS for the monitoring and management of biodiversity and ecosystems. Fewer challenges were prioritized. Those that were emphasized concerns surrounding waste from unrecovered RAS, and the quality and interpretation of RAS-collected data. Although the future impacts of RAS for urban ecosystems are difficult to predict, examining potentially important developments early is essential if we are to avoid detrimental consequences but fully realize the benefits.
| Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Title: | A global horizon scan of the future impacts of robotics and autonomous systems on urban ecosystems |
| Location: | England |
| Open access status: | An open access version is available from UCL Discovery |
| DOI: | 10.1038/s41559-020-01358-z |
| Publisher version: | https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-020-01358-z |
| Language: | English |
| Additional information: | This version is the author accepted manuscript. For information on re-use, please refer to the publisher's terms and conditions. |
| Keywords: | Sustainability, Urban ecology |
| UCL classification: | UCL UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS > Faculty of Engineering Science UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS > Faculty of Engineering Science > STEaPP |
| URI: | https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10118480 |
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