The UK’s National Quantum Strategy emphasizes responsible innovation, ethical use, and societal good in developing and adopting quantum technologies. To support this goal, the Responsible Quantum Industry Forum (RQIF) was established earlier this year, led by the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) with UKQuantum and techUK as industry co-chairs. The RQIF’s objective is to enable organizations to develop and use quantum technologies responsibly, building on shared principles.
Today, the RQIF launches its principles, a shared commitment to responsible quantum innovation developed with input from its members. Science Minister Lord Vallance praised the initiative, stating that these principles are vital to ensure quantum technologies are developed with respect for privacy, security, and societal good. Dr Simon Plant, Deputy Director of Innovation at NQCC, emphasized the importance of championing responsible quantum innovation in the UK’s quantum industry.
Key companies involved in this effort include Fujitsu, Google, IBM Research, Intel Corporation, and Sony Europe BV, among others. The RQIF principles aim to provide a foundation for collaboration on operationalizing responsible quantum practices, demonstrating thought-leadership, and promoting fair and equitable opportunities to access and benefit from quantum technologies.
Responsible Quantum Industry Forum: Guiding Principles for a Sustainable Future
The rapid development and adoption of quantum technologies have the potential to transform various industries and aspects of our lives. However, these technologies must be developed and used responsibly to ensure their benefits are shared equitably and their risks are mitigated. The Responsible Quantum Industry Forum (RQIF) has established a set of guiding principles to promote responsible innovation and use of quantum technologies.
Open Collaboration on Responsible Quantum
The RQIF emphasizes the importance of open collaboration among stakeholders to achieve the shared goal of responsible development and use of quantum technologies. This principle encourages transparency, knowledge sharing, and collective problem-solving to address the challenges and opportunities presented by these emerging technologies.
Forward-Looking and Responsive
The principles advocate for a forward-looking approach that proactively considers the potential impacts of quantum technologies on individuals, society, and the environment. This includes responding proportionately to mitigate any negative consequences and capitalizing on opportunities to create positive outcomes.
Transparency and Explainability
Transparency is a critical aspect of responsible innovation in quantum technologies. The principles emphasize the need for clear communication about the capabilities and limitations of these technologies, as well as their potential impacts on society and the environment. Additionally, explainable outcomes are essential to ensure trust and accountability in the development and deployment of quantum technologies.
Safety and Reliability
The design, build, and testing of quantum technologies must prioritize safety and reliability. This principle ensures that these technologies are developed with robust safeguards to prevent harm to individuals, society, and the environment.
Privacy and Security
Proactive measures must be taken to address risks to privacy and security in the development and deployment of quantum technologies. This includes implementing robust security protocols and ensuring that personal data is protected from unauthorized access or exploitation.
Equitability, Fairness, and Inclusivity
The principles promote fair and equitable opportunities for individuals and organizations to access and benefit from quantum technologies. This includes building a diverse and inclusive ecosystem that fosters collaboration, innovation, and mutual benefit.
Accountability
Finally, the RQIF emphasizes the importance of accountability in upholding these principles. Stakeholders must demonstrate their commitment to responsible innovation and use of quantum technologies through their actions and decisions.
Developing the Principles: A Collaborative Effort
The development of the RQIF principles was a collaborative effort involving key organizations from the UK quantum technology industry and an online consultation exercise to ensure diverse perspectives were represented. The process began with aligning existing ecosystem values and establishing a shared understanding of the context of quantum technologies.
A strong consensus emerged on key values: transparency, accountability, equitability, security, safety, and privacy. These themes aligned well with an initial draft of principles developed by the Core Team. Members then reviewed and discussed this initial draft, sharing valuable insights that helped revise and iterate the principles.
The RQIF gratefully acknowledges the contributions of its members who shared their time and expertise during the principle drafting process. This collaborative effort has resulted in a set of guiding principles that will help shape the responsible development and use of quantum technologies for the benefit of all.
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