Today, society is immersed in a hyperconnected world and there is a question about which technologies will shape the future. Much data is analyzed to understand the technological innovations that will have a significant impact on the world economy, the environment, and social order.
The World Economic Forum has released a report on emerging technologies that are attractive to investors and researchers. People with a Professional Master’s Degree in Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0 argue that these technologies will impact important aspects over the next ten years.
- Bioplastics to improve the circular economy
Less than 15% of the world’s plastic is recycled, while the rest is incinerated, abandoned, or sent to landfills. However, the use of biodegradable plastic made from cellulose or lignin derived from plant residues is revolutionizing the creation of bioplastics. This increases the material’s resistance without using crops intended for human consumption, thus contributing to the circular economy.
- DNA-based data storage
Current data storage systems consume a lot of energy and are unable to keep up with the massive amounts of data being produced daily. Within a century, they are expected to reach capacity. As a low-power alternative to traditional computer hard drives, Microsoft is researching and developing a unique system for storing information in synthetic DNA.
3. Collaborative telepresence
Due to the pandemic, video conferencing and remote work have gained momentum in the last two years. However, the need to improve communication methods is increasing. Through a combination of augmented and virtual reality, artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and advanced sensors, collaborative telepresence will enable people in different locations to physically interact as if they were in the same room.
4. Safer nuclear reactors
While nuclear power does not emit carbon dioxide, reactors face the risk of fuel rods overheating and producing hydrogen when mixed with water, which can lead to explosions. To address this, new fuels are being created that are less likely to overheat and, if they do, will not produce substantial amounts of hydrogen.
5. Large-scale renewable energy storage
Renewable energies face challenges in reaching people effectively, as the lack of sun or wind has hindered their acceptance and use. The implementation of ion batteries for energy storage is set to dominate the next decade. These batteries can store up to eight hours of energy, providing enough power for peak demand during the night when solar energy is not available.
6. Sustainable fertilizers
The creation of new fertilizers involves the use of more eco-friendly nitrogen sources and microorganisms that enhance plant absorption. This approach avoids the harmful environmental effects of using traditional methods such as ammonia, urea, and potash.
7. The metalens
Advances in physics have led to lighter, miniaturized alternatives to current lenses. These thin and flat metalenses could replace the bulky glass lenses used in various devices such as microscopes, cameras, screens, and phones.
8. Social bots
These new assistants are becoming part of everyday life and are increasingly being used to care for the elderly, educate children, and perform various tasks at home. They have the ability to recognize voices, faces, emotions, and even make eye contact.
9. Metaverse
The metaverse is a revolutionary digital reality that can be accessed with special devices such as virtual or augmented reality glasses. It allows users to interact with others, work, have social meetings, and even play in immersive worlds. This interactive space has decentralized corporeal environments and virtual economies without limits.
10. Augmented Analytics
Analytics helps describe, explain, and predict consumer and business behavior. Augmented analytics adds artificial intelligence tools like Machine Learning, increasing speed and enabling the processing of large amounts of data. This method can be implemented in any industry, particularly those working with Big Data experts and interested in its adoption.
Emerging technologies aim to provide opportunities, enhance productivity, reduce costs, and support the environment and sustainability. They have the potential to make a positive impact on companies and people worldwide.