Quantum and Society (CQS), in collaboration with Quantum Delta NL, has launched the Quantum for Good Challenge

As the United Nations prepares to launch its International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, a new challenge is underway to harness the power of quantum technologies for societal good. The Centre for Quantum and Society (CQS), in collaboration with Quantum Delta NL, has launched the Quantum for Good Challenge, a four-year initiative to drive the development of beneficial quantum applications.

The first challenge invites students across the Netherlands to explore the potential of quantum sensing in addressing microplastics pollution, a pressing global issue that poses significant threats to aquatic ecosystems and human health. According to Diederick Croese, director of CQS, “The Quantum for Good Challenge is a call to action for students to explore how quantum technology can be used to address societal challenges.”

The challenge will culminate in a grand finale in May 2025, with prizes of up to €3,000 for the winning teams.

Harnessing Quantum Technologies for Societal Good

The Centre for Quantum and Society (CQS), in collaboration with Quantum Delta NL, has launched the Quantum for Good Challenge, a initiative aimed at accelerating the development of societally beneficial quantum applications ahead of the UN International Year of Quantum. This challenge is part of a broader effort to harness the power of quantum technologies to address major societal challenges.

The first challenge invites students across The Netherlands to explore and research the possibilities of leveraging quantum sensing to address microplastics pollution, a pressing global issue that nations are discussing as part of the UN environmental agenda. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters, pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Current detection methods lack sensitivity and struggle with complex or polluted samples, making effective monitoring and mitigation challenging.

The Quantum for Good Challenge is designed to drive innovation in quantum applications that can benefit society. By hosting annual multiple competitions over the next four years, CQS aims to accelerate the development of societally beneficial quantum applications. The challenge begins with a Hackathon at the end of January 2025, coinciding with the two-year anniversary of the Centre for Quantum & Society and leading up to the United Nations International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.

Addressing Microplastics Pollution through Quantum Sensing

Microplastics pollution is a pressing global issue that requires innovative solutions. The first Quantum for Good Challenge focuses on exploring the possibilities of leveraging quantum sensing to address this problem. Quantum sensing has the potential to provide more sensitive and accurate detection methods, which can help monitor and mitigate microplastics pollution.

The challenge invites students to research and develop quantum sensing applications that can detect microplastics in complex or polluted samples. This requires considering current limitations and potential breakthroughs in quantum sensing technology. By exploring the feasibility and impact of quantum sensing in detecting microplastics, participants can contribute to the development of innovative solutions for this pressing global issue.

Integrating Ethical, Legal, and Social Aspects into Quantum Innovation

The Quantum for Good Challenge is designed not only to drive innovation in quantum applications but also to integrate a thorough exploration of the ethical, legal, and social aspects (ELSA) of quantum innovation. This is in line with CQS’s mission to raise awareness about quantum technologies and their societal impact.

By considering the ELISA aspects of quantum innovation, participants can develop solutions that are not only technically feasible but also socially responsible. This requires exploring the potential ethical implications of quantum sensing applications, such as privacy concerns or biases in data collection, as well as the legal frameworks that govern their development and deployment.

Fostering Collaboration and Growth in Quantum Applications

The Quantum for Good Challenge is designed to foster collaboration and growth in quantum applications. By bringing together students, academics, and industry professionals, the challenge provides a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and innovation.

Future challenges will extend beyond students to include all kinds of organizations, including startups, fostering continuous growth, research collaboration, and the development of quantum applications for societal good. This will help create a vibrant ecosystem that drives innovation in quantum technologies and their applications.

Registration for the challenge is open until January 24, 2025, and interested students can register online. A comprehensive FAQ document is also available, providing detailed information on the challenge, including eligibility criteria, judging process, and prizes.