#8 : Quantum and society

Quantum and society

In closing, we’ll have a look at the societal impact of quantum.

Wow! You're almost there.

This is the last chapter of the Quantum Course. Your official certificate is only a few clicks away

finish

So far, you've learned out the building blocks of quantum.

We talked about how a quantum computer operates and how you can run software on it. But equally as important will the impact of quantum. 

That is what this chapter is all about!

Let's meet Deborah Nas.

Deborah is professor at TU Delft and associated with the Center for Quantum and Society.

Many experts make the comparison with AI.

Remember the time before ChatGPT? 

It was only a few years ago that AI was still in its infancy. Many governments and other organizations were way too late in discovering the potential impact. 

ai course

With quantum, we try to avoid that scenario.

In her research Deborah studies both the benefits as well as the drawbacks of technologies.

The future isn’t given.

According to Deborah, we are still at the cusp of quantum technology. That means we can still have the conversation about desired applications.

The impact on society.

When you look at the impact of technology, it is often a matter of the 'haves' and 'havenots'. Who benefits and who doesn't?

That makes this a geopolitical issue, says Deborah.

But it's more than technology.

We need many people, from many different backgrounds to work on quantum says Deborah.

Because it's people that shape the future, not technologies.

That's why we need to talk about tech for good. For example through the Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs in short.

An agenda towards 2030.

Some goals protect the planet, like cleaning up oceans and saving forests, while others ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all people. Governments, businesses, and individuals work together to achieve these goals. 

the goals

A giant to do-list for humanity.

The SDGs aim to build a world where everyone can live a happy, healthy life while protecting nature for future generations.

united

So, how can quantum help the SDGs?

We're going to invite you to do a little thought exercise. On the left side we have the quantum technologies and on the right side the SDGSs.


Now, let's mix and match.

For example, we pick SDG 13. This one stands for climate action. 

And for the sake of this exercise we would like to pair it with quantum sensing.

ai course

Remember quantum sensing?

In track 5 Premjith introduced as into the world of quantum sensors.

premjith quote

Quantum sensors are very advanced.

They can measure physical quantities like gravity, temperature, and magnetic fields with unprecedented precision. This is extremely relevant for climate action.

They can enhance climate monitoring and environmental research.

(Click to learn more)




Sounds good? Let's do another one.

Now we're going to take SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and see if we can pair it with quantum computing.

ai course

Inspired by a recent White Paper.

The Open Quantum Institute says quantum computing can revolutionize sustainable agriculture by addressing the complex challenges of food production and security.

ai course

It is a combination of quantum computers and machine learning.

This offers a transformative approach to understanding plant genomics, enabling the development of resilient crops that can thrive in changing climates.

quantum genomics

So, what is quantum about it?

(Click to learn more)




In short.

This application directly supports SDG 2 by optimizing food systems, reducing hunger, and making agriculture more resilient to climate challenges.

These were just two example of how quantum can have a positive impact on society!

Because the future is not set. It is shaped by our actions.

We hope that following this course has given you new knowledge and new ideas to work on inspiring projects!

yes we can

And ... without further ado.

( drumroll...)

Well done!

You can download your certificate on the next screen. If that isn’t the case, it could be that you accidentally skipped a chapter or question. For now though: congratulations!

WOO-HOO... YOU HAVE COMPLETED THIS COURSE!