UofG experts contribute to net-zero transition report

Researchers from the University of Glasgow's School of Mathematics and Statistics have contributed to a major new report on how digital technology could help the UK achieve its net-zero goals. The Royal Society's report, published today, suggests that digital technology, from smart meters to supercomputers, weather modelling and AI, could deliver nearly one third of the carbon emission reductions required by 2030. Digital Technology and the Planet: Harnessing computing to achieve net zero sets a roadmap for maximising data and digital technologies' role in building a low carbon economy and a green recovery from COVID-19. The document was compiled from the contributions of experts in fields including computing, sustainability, artificial intelligence and statistics drawn from universities and organisations across the UK. Professor Marian Scott, of the School of Mathematics and Statistics, was one of the authors. Her research is related to development of a net zero data and analytics infrastructure which could include ubiquitous sensors and satellite observations and other data streams which could be fused to provide actionable intelligence through embedding them in management support systems. Such an infrastructure could contribute to solutions delivering net zero, allow progress to be tracked, as well as supporting decisions concerning the efficiency of alternative interventions.