December 19, 2023

If Countries Are Serious about Climate Change, They Should Get Serious about Quantum Computing

By: Sam Howell

The COP28 Conference in Dubai has already unveiled several declarations that underscore the disastrous consequences of climate change and galvanize global initiatives to keep a resilient future within reach. Though laudable, these declarations are ultimately futile if countries fail to successfully implement them. If countries are serious about meeting their climate commitments, they should get serious about quantum computing, a potentially game-changing technology that could support implementation and drive breakthrough climate innovations.

Quantum computing, though an imperfect technology itself, could expedite critical breakthroughs and help achieve global climate objectives within desired timeframes.

COP28 participants aim to limit global warming to 1.5°C compared to pre-industrial levels by 2050. Green energy technologies — such as electric vehicles, carbon capture and storage, and climate resilient agriculture — are key to help countries remain on target and cut net emissions in half by 2030.

The problem is that many green energy technologies are too costly and cumbersome to be useful. Further, existing approaches to scientific research and discovery could take years or decades to produce needed improvements, and the world cannot afford to wait. Rising temperatures already cause environmental degradation, weather extremes, food and water insecurity and conflict. Thankfully, quantum computing can help.

Read the full article from The Hill.

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