HRI25: ACM/IEEE International Conference on Human-Robot Interaction

Robots for a Sustainable World: a Call for Action

At HRI, researchers and practitioners from all over the world meet to discuss and explore the intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence with our human, social world.

This year, the conference will focus on a special theme: Robots for a Sustainable World. We all face the pressing global challenge of achieving sustainability in every facet of our lives; we want to ensure that robotics is part of the solution.

Understanding the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Sustainability has evolved significantly, expanding far beyond the confines of ecology to encompass economic, social, and technological dimensions.

The United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) are a universal call to action adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015. They aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people are on a solid trajectory towards peace and prosperity. These 17 interconnected goals serve as a blueprint for a sustainable future, addressing issues such as clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry innovation and infrastructure, and climate action.

At HRI’25, we recognize that sustainability transcends environmental conservation. It involves creating systems that are resilient, inclusive, and equitable, ensuring that technological advancements benefit all segments of society.

Beyond Ecology: A Broader Perspective on Sustainability

While the ecological aspect of sustainability remains critical, we must also consider the broader implications. Economic sustainability involves creating robust economic systems that support innovation and provide fair opportunities for all. Social sustainability emphasises the importance of inclusive communities where everyone can thrive, promoting equity and social justice.

Technological sustainability, especially in the realm of robotics, requires us to think critically about how our innovations impact society and the environment. Robots can play a pivotal role in achieving the SDGs by improving efficiency, reducing waste, and providing solutions to complex problems in health, education, and industry.

Encouraging Sustainable Research Practices

We want to invite the broad community of HRI researchers, practitioners and industry stakeholders to embrace this global challenge, and meaningfully engage in the conversation through their research, robotic systems, or provocative thoughts.

Specifically, we invite the authors to reflect on the sustainability of their research methods and topics. This reflection goes beyond ethical considerations; it encompasses a holistic view of how research can be conducted and applied sustainably.

Sustainable Research Methods

1. Resource Efficiency: consider the environmental impact of your research activities. How can you minimise waste and reduce energy consumption in your experiments and data collection processes?
2. Collaboration and Inclusivity: engage with diverse communities and stakeholders to ensure that your research addresses the needs and concerns of various groups, particularly those traditionally underrepresented in technological advancements.
3. Longevity and Scalability: develop solutions that are not only innovative but also scalable and adaptable to different contexts, ensuring long-term viability and impact.

Sustainable Research Topics

1. Eco-friendly Robotics: reflect on the environmental impact of the production and/or use of the robotic systems we develop; explore how robots can contribute to environmental conservation, such as through precision agriculture, waste management, and renewable energy systems.
2. Socially Responsible Robotics: investigate how robots can enhance quality of life, from improving healthcare delivery to supporting education in underserved areas.
3. Economic Impact: study the potential of robotics to drive economic growth by creating new industries and job opportunities while ensuring that these benefits are distributed equitably.