UB Project to Minimize Environmental Impact of Micro- and Nanorobots
Micro- and nanoscale robotic platforms, such as nanorobots for drug delivery, energy production, and pollution control, have revolutionized fields like biomedicine, materials science, and ecology. These robots can perform tasks with high precision and minimal invasiveness, using external energy sources like magnetic fields, light, and ultrasound. However, the environmental impact of manufacturing and using these devices has not been sufficiently addressed.
The GREENS project, led by Maria Guix at the University of Barcelona, aims to tackle this issue by applying the 5R’s principle (Reduce, Recycle, Rethink, Repair, Reuse) to the lifecycle of micro- and nanorobots. The project, funded by Horizon Europe, is the first to integrate sustainability into the design, production, and disposal of small-scale robotics. GREENS will help minimize the ecological footprint of these technologies, ensuring they contribute to a circular economy.
The project, which runs from 2025 to 2029, brings together various European institutions and companies. It will focus on creating eco-friendly, biodegradable robots using sustainable materials, reducing environmental pollution, and supporting local economies. GREENS aligns with the European Commission’s environmental goals and contributes to a sustainable, climate-neutral economy while advancing healthcare and environmental solutions.
https://web.ub.edu/en/web/actualitat/w/greens-project-robotics