Could Quantum Computing hold the key to sustainability?

Quantum will play a crucial role in the UK's push towards net-zero, but it is not without its own environmental challenges.

If applied to current low-emission technologies, quantum computing could contribute to solutions that change how we generate and store power, enable material discovery, store carbon and ultimately may play a significant role in mitigating climate change.

techUK recently published this longer insight piece exploring and identifying the potential impact of Quantum technologies and the environment. Yet, as the UK positions itself for commercialisation of quantum technologies and we look to how the tech sector can exploit and utilize quantum, and we prepare for COP26 this year, we also need to create an engaged and informed discussion on how quantum aligns with businesses’ sustainability strategies, what solutions could help the race to net-zero, and how we can commercialise quantum solutions for sustainability.

It is critical the tech sector proactively engages with the debate around sustainable use of quantum technologies and provide input to the below areas:

• Generating  awareness and understanding of the carbon and energy impact for businesses using classical and quantum computers
• Explore how quantum solutions could support the race to net zero
• How quantum could can be used alongside other emerging technologies such as AI, to minimise our future energy impact.
• How collaboration between Government, Industry and Research can support quantum and sustainability

Speakers include: 

• Steve Brierley, CEO and Co-Founder, Riverlane
• Andy Grant, Strategic HPC and Quantum Projects, Atos
• Richard Murray, CEO, ORCA Computing
• Dr Murray Simpson, Global Director, Sustainability, Climate and Transition, IBM

This techUK event will gather member views on Quantum and its role in achieving net zero, how we can encourage the commercialisation of these quantum solutions in the UK, alongside other emerging technologies such as AI, and support collaboration between Government, Industry and Research around Quantum sustainability.

With use cases from industry leaders from across the Quantum ecosystem, this one hour webinar will showcase why sustainability needs to be at the heart of the conversation around quantum commercialisation.

This session is just one part of techUK’s year-long campaign on Quantum Commercialisation. In 2021, techUK will bring together the technology sector, key stakeholders, policy makers and the wider business community to discuss whether we have in place what is needed to drive forward the commercialisation of Quantum technologies; create a thriving Quantum market for new products and services; and support the development of a world leading Quantum industry.

Laura Foster

Associate Director - Technology and Innovation, techUK

Laura is techUK’s Associate Director for Technology and Innovation.

She supports the application and expansion of emerging technologies, including Quantum Computing, High-Performance Computing, AR/VR/XR and Edge technologies, across the UK. As part of this, she works alongside techUK members and UK Government to champion long-term and sustainable innovation policy that will ensure the UK is a pioneer in science and technology

Before joining techUK, Laura worked internationally as a conference researcher and producer covering enterprise adoption of emerging technologies. This included being part of the strategic team at London Tech Week.

Laura has a degree in History (BA Hons) from Durham University, focussing on regional social history. Outside of work she loves reading, travelling and supporting rugby team St. Helens, where she is from.

Email:

[email protected]

LinkedIn:

www.linkedin.com/in/lauraalicefoster

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