Ecological degradation and global wealth inequality are currently two of the most critical challenges. Many propose high-tech solutions as a panacea, envisioning a future where technological progress will improve services and empower citizens. However, these technologies rely on rare resources, while their lifecycle burdens both the environment and labor conditions. We therefore face a paradox: Can technologies that potentially exacerbate these problems simultaneously be their solution? Is there a way to harness innovation without intensifying inequalities and environmental destruction? This seminar examines the relationship between technology, sustainability, and equality, presenting an alternative approach. Through examples from various sectors -such as agriculture, energy, and robotics- it explores how technology can genuinely serve humanity and the planet.Vasilis completed the coordination of an ERC-funded project (cosmolocalism) and is currently disseminating its main findings.
Lecturer
Vasilis Kostakis (gscholar profile), Professor of Technology Governance and Sustainability at Tallinn University of Technology and Faculty Associate of Harvard University. Vasilis is also the founder of P2P Lab and founding member of the rural makerspace "Tzoumakers" and the energy community "CommonEn"
