Researchers from the University of Bristol and the University of West England have suggested that the robotics industry should develop robots that can be reprogrammed and repurposed for various tasks after their initial lifespan ends.
A recent study published in Towards Autonomous Robotic Systems urges those in the robotics sector and academia to consider how their initial design decisions can influence the long-term sustainability of robotic systems.
Experts point out that approximately 80% of a robot’s environmental impact is determined during its design phase. Therefore, it is crucial for researchers, designers, and manufacturers to grasp the limitations associated with recycling electronics at the end of their lifespan and explore alternative strategies to foster a sustainable lifecycle for products and the industry as a whole.
Unlike standard reuse, repurposing is particularly relevant for robots because these systems can be fully reprogrammed and paired with new hardware. This results in a product that remains a robot but serves a new function compared to its original purpose.
Helen McGloin from the School of Engineering Mathematics and Technology at Bristol stated: “People across various sectors, including industry, academia, and the general public, are increasingly aware of the growing electronic waste accumulating globally.”
“This research outlines the escalating levels of electronic waste and the corresponding risks this poses to our planet and its inhabitants.”
“According to the Global e-waste monitor by the UN, an astonishing 54 million metric tons of e-waste were generated in 2019. This figure is anticipated to escalate to 75 million metric tons by 2030.”
At present, robots and robotic systems are not categorized as electronic waste, but the authors argue that they fit the criteria for such a classification and will likely be included in future e-waste regulations. This recognition will subject the robotics sector to greater scrutiny in designing and planning for the end-of-life phase of their electronic robotic products.
Similar to other electronic devices, there will be varied options for robots at the end of their primary usability. Currently, many companies, research facilities, and universities ‘hibernate’ their robotic electronic waste, meaning they store it for a period without any usage.
Helen added: “The quantity of electronic waste continues to rise annually worldwide, and the introduction of new robotic products in homes, educational institutions, and workplaces will inevitably exacerbate this issue in the near future.”
“While recycling may seem like a straightforward solution to electronic waste, it is often mismanaged, highlighting the need for alternative solutions. This study challenges those in the robotics sector to think innovatively and proactively about designing for a circular economy.”
The research team has also identified several challenges to encouraging repurposing in the robotics industry, including evaluating economic and environmental feasibility, validating the technical ability to repurpose robots, and changing perceptions about the circular economy through incentives and regulations.
They plan to explore consumer perceptions regarding second-hand robots, industry views on e-waste, the right to repair, repurposing, and the circular economy, as well as the processes for repurposing robots and the obstacles to achieving a circular economy in the robotics field.
This foundational paper employs a literature review and examines concepts from other sectors of the electronics industry in relation to the robotics domain.
Paper:
‘Consulting an Oracle; Repurposing Robots for the Circular Economy’ by Helen McGloin, Matthew Studley, Richard Mawle, and Alan Winfield, published in Towards Autonomous Robotic Systems.
