Sustainability in the Context of Quantum and Photonic Technologies

Initial applications such as microchips and satellite navigation already use quantum technologies today, while more advanced systems - based on entanglement or superposition - are still in the early stages of industrial implementation. At present, there is only limited reliable data on the sustainability and environmental impacts of these technologies, despite the fact that quantum and photonic systems often require highly specialized materials, complex manufacturing processes, and energy-intensive operations. At the same time, the positive impacts and potential of using these technologies to reduce environmental impacts across a wide variety of applications have hardly been quantitatively investigated.

Key aspects include raw material extraction and material selection (e.g., rare earths, semiconductor materials, precious metals), the assessment of manufacturing processes (e.g., cleanroom technologies, chemical consumption, etc.), the use phase (e.g., positive secondary effects, energy consumption for cooling, maintenance, infrastructure, etc.), and end-of-life considerations (e.g., material recovery and separation processes, etc.). All of these factors are critical components that require a comprehensive life cycle assessment across the entire life cycle for evaluation.

With more than three decades of experience in potential analysis and holistic sustainability assessment, Fraunhofer IBP supports technology leaders and users alike. In collaboration with partners from industry, science, and society, we identify opportunities for the application of quantum systems to address sustainability challenges, develop strategies to integrate sustainability aspects throughout the entire lifecycle of these systems, and facilitate knowledge transfer to relevant stakeholders.

Please feel free to contact us for further information and collaboration opportunities in this future-oriented field.