Trends Identified

Cloud technology, including big data

Enables the delivery of computer applications and services over the internet reducing storage and computer power needs. Big data enabled by cloud allows predictive relationships to form, underpinning optimisation.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Autonomous vehicles, including drones

Enabled by robots these are vehicles that can operate and navigate with little or no human control. Drones fly or move without a pilot and can also operate autonomously.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Synthethic biology

Inter-disciplinary branch of biology applying engineering principles to biological systems. The market for biotechnology already exceeds $80Bn/year.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Virtual and augmented reality

Computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image overlaid to the physical world (AR) or a complete environment (VR).

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Artificial intelligence

Software algorithms that are capable of performing tasks that normally require human intelligence, e.g. visual perception, speech recognition and decision-making.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Robots

Electro-mechanical machines or virtual agents that automate, augment, or assist human activities, autonomously or according to set instructions.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Blockchain

Distributed electronic ledger that uses software algorithms to record and confirm transactions with reliability and anonymity.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

3D printing

Additive manufacturing techniques used

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Internet of Things

Network of objects embedded with sensors, software, network connectivity and computer capability, that can collect and exchange data over the internet and enable smart solutions.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC

Clean power

Known technical solution areas which require innovation to realise their potential and enable scale of deployment: Cheap renewables generation, advanced energy storage, Clean fossil fuels, Next-generation grid management, Carbon capture, sequestration and use, Energy efficiency, Renewable heat, Next-generation nuclear fission, Nuclear fusion.

2017

Innovation for the Earth - Harnessing technological breakthroughs for people and the planet

PWC