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News | 30 November 2023

Newsletter #8: Societal embedding of new and emerging technologies & TechEthos Anticipatory ethics Matrix (TEAeM)

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Newsletter (main), Resource.

Newsletter #8
Spotlight societal embedding of new and emerging technologies & TechEthos Anticipatory ethics Matrix (TEAeM)

News | 17 may 2023

In short

Welcome to the eight episode of the TechEthos newsletter series. In this issue, the spotlight is on anticipating the societal embedding of new and emerging technologies and our exploration of public awareness in our technology families by using scenarios. We also share the TechEthos Anticipatory ethics Matrix  (TEAeM) supporting academia and policymakers in their assessment of ethical risks of the above-mentioned technologies.

Date of publication

30 November 2023

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News | 4 December 2023

Navigating Ethical Horizons: Insights from TechEthos Policy Event

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in News.

Navigating Ethical Horizons: Insights from TechEthos Policy Event

4 December 2023

Authored by: Giuseppe Loveno Garofalo 
Reviewed by: Greta Alliaj and Clara Boissenin

Article | 12 September 2023

The TechEthos Policy Event held in Brussels on 14 November 2023 brought together high-level experts, including EU policymakers, researchers from academia, and industry representatives to discuss the ethical governance of emerging technologies in the digital transformation and green transition. The event was moderated by science journalist and broadcaster Vivienne Parry and drew over 60 on-site and 24 virtual participants. With the mission to discuss the ethical implications of emerging technologies, it kicked off with the opening remarks of policy analyst Mihalis Kritikos (DG RTD) emphasizing the evolution of tech-related EU policies and the need of a just transition. Next, TechEthos coordinator, Eva Buchinger (AIT) illustrated the TechEthos vision and Ethics by Design approach.

Ethics for the Digital Transformation

The morning session delved into ethical considerations for Digital Transformation, with Laura Weidinger, Senior Research Scientist at DeepMind setting the scene for an insightful panel discussion. Highlighting AI Safety, especially Generative AI, during her keynote speech, Weidinger stressed:

  • The need for a sociotechnical approach in AI development which recognises potential repercussions of algorithms on individuals. To reach sociotechnical safety, developers must assess AI capability, human interaction, and potential side-effects after full deployment;
  • EU’s AI Act should proactively advocate for a balanced distribution of responsibility, emphasizing foresight and pre-market testing implementation.

The session extended to explore ethical, social, and regulatory challenges of Digital Extended Reality through a dynamic panel discussion featuring Laura Weidinger, Alexei Grinbaum (CEA), Kevin MacNish (SOPRA STERIA), Alina Kadlubsky (Open AR Cloud Europe) and Ivan Yamshchikov (CAIRO). Key topics included:

  • Challenges in implementing Ethics by Design in XR applications. The creation of digital ‘twins’ via XR often produces static representations that may not capture the dynamic real-world evolution. Also, the integration of AI, visualization, and biometric data in human-machine interactions adds complexity, presenting ethical challenges in XR design and implementation;
  • Potential certification for development companies conducting impact assessments for their XR models;
  • Ethical concerns related to who shapes AI companions and their actions – raising debates over accountability;
  • The challenge of conceptual disentanglement in interactions between humans and AI companions, especially those with human-like attributes. These evolving relationships are understudied but may become a crucial focus in the future;
  • The absence of a one-size-fits-all rule complicates the implementation of the Ethics by Design approach.

     

Ethics for the Green Transition

In the afternoon session, Behnam Taebi, full Professor of Energy & Climate Ethics at Delft University of Technology addressed the urgent need for achieving net-zero by 2050, exploring the ethical controversies surrounding climate engineering techniques such as Solar Radiation Management (SRM) and Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR). Key takeaways included:

  • SRM offers substantial benefits in reducing the pace of temperature and sea level rise, but its impact on ozone depletion, drought, health, and agriculture remains unknown;
  • Advocacy for a “risk vs. risk” approach, weighing the risks of implementing climate engineering against the risks of not taking any action;
  • Recognition of the need for private funding to address climate challenges while emphasizing the importance of business models that transcend profit-centric approaches.

The keynote speech was followed by a panel discussion on the ethical, social, and regulatory challenges featuring Behnam Taebi, Dominic Lenzi (University of Twente), Dušan Chrenek (DG CLIMATE ACTION), and Matthias Honegger (Perspectives Climate Research). Key points discussed encompassed:

  • The need for a global collaboration for SRM research which incorporates principles of global justice, human rights protection, and legitimacy;
  • The necessity for effective and legitimate governance of research;
  • Warning about potential overreliance on the CDR technology – which might hinder emissions reduction efforts;
  • The need to clarify how CDR can be implemented in accordance with the EU principles, the biodiversity strategy 2030, and the UNFCCC’s principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities;
  • The necessity to scrutinize the role of fossil fuel industry in CDR deployment.

Conclusion

The conference ended with some final words from Maura Hiney (UCD Institute for Discovery), who contextualised the TechEthos project within the ALLEA Code of Conduct – a high-level framework for achieving high-quality, trustworthy, and responsible research. Finally, Eva Buchinger, Laurence Brooks (University of Sheffield), and Renate Klar (EUREC) provided some context concerning the project – seen as a continuation of previous projects and a foundation for future research on the ethics of emerging technologies.

The TechEthos Policy Event attempted to explore the ethical implications of the digital transformation and green transition, unravelling challenges that define our technological future. In the convergence of innovation and moral responsibility, a clear call emerges for global discourse. It is in these considerations that we shape ethical frameworks, ensuring that technology serves humanity with integrity. The echoes of the discussions held should resonate, urging us to collectively navigate the ethical landscapes that lie ahead.

Do you want to find out more? Take a look at the videos of the event on our YouTube Channel!

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Tool | 20 November 2023

Y/our Ethics Decide: an interactive Digital Installation on the ethical dimensions of Climate Engineering and Natural Language Processing

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Resource, Tool (main).

Tool

Y/our Ethics Decide: an interactive Digital Installation on the ethical dimensions of Climate Engineering and Natural Language Processing

In an era dominated by unprecedented technological advancements, the ethical implications of innovation must have a central role. Y/our Ethics Decide, a revolutionary digital installation, invites you to explore the complex interplay of ethics, technology, and societal values. Embark on this immersive experience, where “Ethics by design” shapes the narrative right from the inception of emerging technologies.

Have a closer look at the Digital Installation

Y/our Ethics Decide: A Visionary Approach to Tech Ethics

Y/our Ethics Decide is not only a digital installation – but a journey into the future of responsible technology. Based on the principle of Ethics by design, Y/our Ethics ensures that societal values lead the way in the development of new technologies. This unique approach empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to actively participate in shaping the ethical landscape of emerging realms.

Climate Engineering: Addressing the Urgency of Our Time

Y/our Ethics Decide navigates the realm of Climate Engineering. Technologies like Nature-based Carbon Dioxide Removal and Engineered Carbon Dioxide Removal take center stage, aiming to mitigate the effects of climate change. Solar Radiation Management, a pivotal aspect of Climate Engineering, explores innovative methods to reflect sunlight and cool the planet.

Natural Language Processing: Decoding the Heart of Digital Interaction

Our digital installation delves into the heart of Digital Extended Reality. Here, artificial intelligence comprehends and responds to human communication, offering insights into the evolving landscape of interactive technologies. Affective computing and chatbots further enhance these capabilities, underscoring the critical need for responsible development in this fast-paced and dynamic space.

Do you want to find out more and discover further information about emerging technologies? Check the interactive Y/our Ethics Decide here.

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Deliverable | 20 November 2023

Anticipation of societal embedding of new and emerging technologies

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Deliverable (main), Resource.

Deliverable
Anticipation of societal embedding of new and emerging technologies: using scenarios to explore public awareness and attitudes in climate engineering, digital extended reality and neurotechnologies

Policy brief | 30 October 2023

In short

This deliverable sheds light on the intricate landscape of societal integration for new and emerging technologies like neurotechnology, digital extended reality, and climate engineering. Notably, the document delves into the public’s awareness and attitudes surrounding these technologies.

The findings underline the importance of anticipating societal responses to innovations, emphasizing values such as equity, reliability, and the well-being of both people and the planet. The document also advocates for justifying research and innovation investments by addressing the expectations, concerns, and aspirations of a vast array of stakeholder groups.

Find out more about our conclusions by downloading the deliverable.

Author

Eva Buchinger, Michael J. Bernstein, Masafumi Nishi, Wenzel Mehnert, and Alexandra Csabi.

Date of publication

20 November 2023

Status

Draft version submitted to the European Commission for review

Cite this resource

Buchinger E, Bernstein MJ, Nishi M, Mehnert W, Csabi A (2023). D3.4 Anticipation of societal embedding of new and emerging technologies: Using scenarios to explore public awareness and attitudes in climate engineering, digital extended reality and neurotechnologies. TechEthos Project Deliverable to the European Commission. Available at: www.techethos.eu.

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News | 7 November 2023

Newsletter #7: Spotlight on policy briefs & key messages on ethical governance for European policymakers

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Newsletter (main), Resource.

Newsletter #7
Spotlight on policy briefs & key messages on ethical governance

News | 17 may 2023

In short

Welcome to the seventh instalment of the TechEthos newsletter. In this issue, we share new policy briefs with key messages on ethical governance of our three technology families in focus: Climate Engineering, Neurotechnologies, and Digital Extended Reality. These are the results of the social, ethical, and legal analyses conducted in the TechEthos project. 

Date of publication

7 November 2023

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Policy Brief | 06 November 2023

XR and General Purpose AI: from values and principles to norms and standards

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Deliverable (main), Deliverable + Policy brief, Policy brief, Resource.

Policy brief
XR and General Purpose AI: from values and principles to norms and standards

Policy brief | 30 October 2023

In short

This policy brief explores the ethical challenges of eXtended Reality (XR) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) within the expansive realm of General Purpose Artificial Intelligence (AI).

This brief, addressed to EU policymakers and global stakeholders, delves into human-machine dynamics, ethical data usage, and the urgent need for operational norms and standards in the AI domain.

The document offers important recommendations to enhance ethical practices concerning these emerging technologies and addresses issues like transparency, manipulation risks, user dignity, responsibility, autonomy levels, equitable labor conditions, decency in Generative AI, environmental impacts, and privacy concerns.

Find out more about each recommendation by downloading the policy brief below.

Author

Laurynas Adomaitis (CEA), Alexei Grinbaum (CEA).

Date of publication

06 November 2023

Cite this resource

TechEthos (2023) XR and General Purpose AI: from values and principles to norms and standards. Deliverable to the European Commission. Available at: www.techethos.eu.

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Deliverable | 28 October 2023

Criteria for ethical review by RECs in emerging technology research

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Deliverable (main), Resource.

Deliverable
Criteria for ethical review by RECs in emerging technology research

Deliverable | 28 October 2023

In short

This deliverable underlines the complexities of ethical review processes within Research Ethics Committees (RECs) concerning emerging technologies like neurotechnology (NT), digital extended reality (DXR), and climate engineering (CE).

Thanks to a comprehensive methodology involving literature review, REC member surveys, and expert workshops, the report identifies critical challenges faced by RECs. These challenges comprise both structural aspects (e.g., limitations in scope and expertise) and topical elements (including the assessment of fairness, autonomy, and private sector involvement)

The document provides vital recommendations aimed at enhancing REC capabilities and promoting ethical research practices in the realm of new and emerging technologies.

Authors

Carly Seedall (EUREC Office), Tom Lindemann (EUREC), Renate Klar (EUREC), Lisa Tambornino (EUREC).

Date of publication

28 October 2023

Status

Draft version submitted to the European Commission for review

Cite this resource

Seedall, C., Lindemann, T., Klar, R., Tambornino, L., (2023). Criteria for ethical review by RECs in emerging technology research. TechEthos Project Deliverable. Available at: www.techethos.eu.

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Policy brief | 30 October 2023

Key messages for the ethical governance of Solar Radiation Modification (SRM) research

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Deliverable (main), Deliverable + Policy brief, Policy brief, Resource.

Policy brief
Key messages for the ethical governance of Solar Radiation Modification (SRM) research

Policy brief | 30 October 2023

In short

Solar Radiation Modification (SRM), a type of climate engineering technique aimed at mitigating atmospheric heating by reflecting sunlight and heat back into space.

Tailored for EU policymakers and global stakeholders, this policy brief emphasizes ethical governance, international collaboration, and public engagement in SRM research.

To ensure responsible, just and sustainable SRM research, TechEthos project encourages EU policymakers to:

  • Define SRM Field Testing, Deployment, and SRM Research on an international level;
  • Formulate transparent and accountable EU Research Policy through politically legitimate bodies;
  • Adopt a precautionary approach guided by ethical considerations when assessing the risks of SRM research policy programs;
  • Include normative values like legitimacy and global justice in assessing SRM implications for human rights.

Find out more about each recommendation by downloading the policy brief below.

Author

Bennet Francis, Dominic Lenzi, Michel Bourban.

Date of publication

30 October 2023

Cite this resource

TechEthos (2023) Key messages for the ethical governance of Solar Radiation Modification (SRM) research. Deliverable to the European Commission. Available at: www.techethos.eu.

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Policy brief | 30 October 2023

Key messages for the ethical governance of neurotechnologies

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Deliverable (main), Deliverable + Policy brief, Policy brief, Resource.

Policy brief
Key messages for the ethical governance of neurotechnologies

Policy brief | 30 October 2023

In short

Neurotechnologies, delving into direct neural system interaction, needs ethical governance. This policy brief outlines recommendations for EU policymakers involved in legislation on neurotechnologies, medical devices, dual-use items, privacy, data protection, and AI systems.

To ensure ethical, legal, and fundamental rights in neurotechnology development, this briefs details the following key messages:

  • Recognize and define neurorights by incorporating them within existing EU fundamental frameworks;
  • Address justice, equality, and discrimination gaps in relation to neurotechnology applications and use cases;
  • Monitor and evaluate regulatory frameworks by assessing adequacy of existing regulations for emerging neurotechnology use cases, including consumer and dual-use applications;
  • Consider Appropriate Legal Instruments to regulate neurotechnologies in the EU;
  • Clarify regulation of AI-based neurotechnologies, specifically addressing use cases under the proposed AI Act.

Find out more about each recommendation by downloading the policy brief below.

Author

Michael J. Bernstein, Wenzel Mehnert, Masafumi Nishi, Renata Mandzhieva, Alexandra Csabi, Eva Buchinger.

Date of publication

30 October 2023

Cite this resource

TechEthos (2023) Key messages on ethical values and principles for neurotechnology development and use. Deliverable to the European Commission. Available at: www.techethos.eu.

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Policy brief | 30 October 2023

Key messages for the ethical governance of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR)

Written by admin_tech_ethos_strong on . Posted in Deliverable (main), Deliverable + Policy brief, Policy brief, Resource.

Policy brief
Key messages for the ethical governance of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR)

Policy brief | 30 October 2023

In short

Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) is a pivotal climate engineering technique aiming to mitigate climate change by removing atmospheric CO2 and storing it in geological, terrestrial, or oceanic reservoirs. TechEthos, in its policy brief, delves into the regulatory challenges within EU laws and policies surrounding CDR. Addressed to European Union (EU) policymakers and officials engaged in climate-related initiatives, the recommendations are crafted to ensure ethical, rights-based, and sustainable development of CDR.

To ensure it, TechEthos project encourages EU policymakers to:

  • Define the legal status of carbon removals, distinguishing them from emission reductions;
  • Advocate for harmonized terms, aligning with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), for clarity in discussions on climate engineering, geoengineering, carbon removal, and CDR;
  • Seek clarity on CDR’s role in achieving the EU’s binding net-zero target by 2050;
  • Explicitly include EU fundamental rights in policies and decision-making processes governing CDR techniques;
  • Outline sustainability requirements for CDR, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the EU Taxonomy Regulation, and the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF) initiative;
  • Promote international collaboration for standardized removal accounting to prevent double counting, ensuring global enforcement;
  • Review the adequacy of environmental liability regimes concerning CDR activities, including research and deployment.

Find out more about each recommendation by downloading the policy brief below.

Author

Bennet Francis, Dominic Lenzi, Michel Bourban.

Date of publication

30 October 2023

Cite this resource

TechEthos (2023) Key messages for the ethical governance of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR). Deliverable to the European Commission. Available at: www.techethos.eu.

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