Quantum computing and the fight against climate change
“But is it really important? Right now?” I’m constantly asked when I mention that I’m spending time understanding quantum technologies and the likely impact of quantum computing.
Skepticism towards research
The relevance of much of science and plenty of technology will often be questioned by the public (Understandably maybe… See topics such as “Can black holes evaporate?” & “Search for the Loch Ness Monster’s DNA”).
And so, impossible-to-understand, shiny gold computers operating at unfathomably low temperatures but apparently less capable than a pocket calculator will inevitably raise questions of relevance in the average citizen’s mind.
There are many ways to explain how in just a few years quantum computers with larger quantum volumes will be of direct, practical benefits to many industries, and thus to many people. Some of these examples can feel very tangible — e.g., optimisation of traffic light sequencing in a city (great for all drivers!) or optimized Amazon Prime delivery routes (even faster packages!!). — but equally they feel almost mundane.
Better is if there is a real problem that is increasingly worrying people and QC can help with that.
