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A global horizon scan of the future impacts of robotics and autonomous systems on urban ecosystems.

Authors :
Goddard MA
Davies ZG
Guenat S
Ferguson MJ
Fisher JC
Akanni A
Ahjokoski T
Anderson PML
Angeoletto F
Antoniou C
Bates AJ
Barkwith A
Berland A
Bouch CJ
Rega-Brodsky CC
Byrne LB
Cameron D
Canavan R
Chapman T
Connop S
Crossland S
Dade MC
Dawson DA
Dobbs C
Downs CT
Ellis EC
Escobedo FJ
Gobster P
Gulsrud NM
Guneralp B
Hahs AK
Hale JD
Hassall C
Hedblom M
Hochuli DF
Inkinen T
Ioja IC
Kendal D
Knowland T
Kowarik I
Langdale SJ
Lerman SB
MacGregor-Fors I
Manning P
Massini P
McLean S
Mkwambisi DD
Ossola A
Luque GP
Pérez-Urrestarazu L
Perini K
Perry G
Pett TJ
Plummer KE
Radji RA
Roll U
Potts SG
Rumble H
Sadler JP
de Saille S
Sautter S
Scott CE
Shwartz A
Smith T
Snep RPH
Soulsbury CD
Stanley MC
Van de Voorde T
Venn SJ
Warren PH
Washbourne CL
Whitling M
Williams NSG
Yang J
Yeshitela K
Yocom KP
Dallimer M
Source :
Nature ecology & evolution [Nat Ecol Evol] 2021 Feb; Vol. 5 (2), pp. 219-230. Date of Electronic Publication: 2021 Jan 04.
Publication Year :
2021

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.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2397-334X
Volume :
5
Issue :
2
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Nature ecology & evolution
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
33398104
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-020-01358-z