Climate change is the defining problem of our time. Scientific research predicts that there will be great effects on all of humanity. It is essential that we all work to identify the possible consequences of climate change and find ways to reduce its negative impacts.
Robotics can be an important resource in this effort. Traditionally, robotics served to increase the economic efficiency of producing products and services that could increase the resources available to combat climate change. Three areas that show promise for robotics to make a difference are in scientific research on climate change, helping to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases that cause climate change, and mitigating climate disasters.
Scientific research on climate relies on the collection of extensive data over large areas of the earth and over long timescales. This could be facilitated by robotic sensors that act autonomously in the atmosphere and oceans. Data collection can be greatly accelerated with swarms of robots working in parallel to cover large areas.
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions can be facilitated by robotic assistance in renewable energy generation. This includes the construction and maintenance of solar power systems, wind towers and hydroelectric generating stations. In addition, robots can monitor industrial sites for greenhouse gas emissions. Robotics is also beginning to play an important role in recycling agriculture, increasing efficiency and reducing the use of chemicals with environmental impacts and reducing the need to generate new resources.
Mitigating climate disasters requires rapid response in unpredictable and unstable environments. Robotic systems can help respond to the predicted increase in flooding by rescuing victims and aiding post-flood recovery. Similar roles for robots could apply to wildfires. In addition, robots can help restore the biological effects of climate change, for example, by planting trees and killing invasive species.
