As the scale of computations increases, quantum computing’s advantages become more evident particularly when studying climate and optimizing energy resource use, where conventional computers struggle with the extensive calculations and inputs required.

Quantum technology has been around for decades and many advancements have been made over the years. It encompasses an array of fields, including computing, sensors, cryptography, simulations, and materials. Its advanced computational capabilities and precision are paving the way for innovative solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change while enhancing the ability to better understand the impacts to prepare a resilient response.

Quantum computing stands at the forefront of this technology capability, offering unprecedented speed and accuracy in processing complex simulations. This capability is key when climate modeling, enabling more precise forecasts of weather patterns. Such accurate predictions are vital for developing effective preparation and response strategies.

Quantum sensors exhibit remarkable sensitivity, capable of detecting minute fluctuations in physical characteristics like magnetic fields, temperature, and pressure with great precision, all of which are essential for monitoring environmental changes.

The development of quantum materials holds promise for creating more sustainable and energy-efficient technologies. High-temperature superconductors (HTS), for instance, can significantly reduce energy losses ^{[ 1 ]} during electricity transmission by allowing current to flow without resistance.

Sukanya S Meher, co-chair of the IEEE Council on Superconductivity Young Professionals and a member of the IEEE Young Professional Climate and Sustainability Task Force, spends a lot of time working with these quantum technologies in her work designing energy efficient circuits. She addressed questions on how this technology is helping climate change mitigation and resilience.

Q:  Quantum technology covers a very wide scope, including computing, sensors, cryptography, simulations, and materials. Tell us how you view quantum technologies and their use in helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change and increase resilience in vulnerable communities.

A: Quantum technologies are becoming powerful tools in addressing the impacts of climate change and improving the resilience of vulnerable communities through their advanced computational capabilities. The technology can provide more precise forecasts of climate patterns and extreme weather events, which can in turn assist in developing better preparation and response strategies, especially in vulnerable communities. 

Quantum technologies can also lead to innovations in carbon capture, new fuels, batteries, fertilizers, catalysts, and more. For instance, it can be used to develop improved energy storage systems ^{[ 2 ]}, more efficient solar conversion technologies ^{[ 3 ]}, and new technology for carbon capture ^{[ 4 ]}, leading to more efficient energy utilization and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Such enhancements could also be applied to energy distribution networks to minimize waste and enhance efficiency.

It’s important to note that while quantum technologies hold great promise, they are still in the early stages of development and their full potential is yet to be realized. As these technologies continue to evolve, they are expected to play an increasingly significant role in addressing global challenges such as climate change and community resilience

Q: How can we leverage quantum computing to tackle climate and energy challenges? 

A: Various hardware approaches for creating qubits and advancing quantum computing are emerging. Companies are utilizing superconductors for qubits for their quantum computers, while others are using trapped ions in a vacuum, or employing silicon quantum dots. Each method has its pros and cons. Building quantum computers is an immense challenge, but the goal extends beyond just building them – to realize their benefits. 

Quantum computers excel in specific tasks compared to conventional computers, and identifying these tasks and exploiting these strengths is crucial. For instance, in climate modeling and weather forecasting ^{[ 5 ]}, quantum computing can enhance fluid dynamics simulations, improving our understanding of future conditions and aiding in mitigation and adaptation planning. 

In grid management, quantum optimization could lead to cost-effective management solutions and lower consumer prices by enhancing operating conditions. Applications best suited for quantum computing often involve exploring large, structured solution spaces. 

Q: How can advancements in quantum materials lead to the development of more sustainable and energy-efficient technologies?

A: The development of quantum materials has the potential to transform sustainable and energy-efficient technologies in various areas. Quantum dot solar cells can increase the effectiveness of converting sunlight into electricity by adjusting semiconductor nanoparticles to absorb specific light wavelengths. High-temperature superconductors have great potential for advancing energy transmission systems due to their efficiency and capacity advantages. 

Graphene-based materials and carbon nanotubes show potential ^{[ 6 ]} in improving energy storage solutions, providing greater capacities, quicker charging times, and longer lifespans for batteries and supercapacitors. Quantum sensors improve environmental monitoring by delivering accurate measurements of gravitational fields. This capability can help in optimizing resource management and energy production. 

Q: In what ways can quantum sensors improve environmental monitoring and contribute to more accurate climate change models?  

A: Quantum sensors display remarkable sensitivity, able to detect tiny fluctuations in physical characteristics like magnetic fields, temperature, and pressure with great precision. This sensitivity plays a role in monitoring changes in the environment and recognizing early signs of climate change. Advancements in quantum sensor technology are particularly improving the accuracy of monitoring soil moisture, which is vital for improving agricultural practices and preserving water resources in regions susceptible to drought. From tracking greenhouse gas concentrations to analyzing temperature variations in the atmosphere and oceans, quantum sensors contribute crucial data for understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change. 

For example, quantum gravity sensors and quantum gas detectors flown on satellites can collect accurate data on levels of groundwater ^{[ 7 ]}, carbon dioxide, and methane to improve climate modeling. Quantum sensors use the principles of quantum mechanics to make extremely accurate measurements. 

Personally, I am enthusiastic about working in the superconductor electronics field, where technologies such as superconducting transition-edge sensors and superconducting quantum interface device (SQUID) ^{[ 8 ]} multiplexing are utilized to improve sensor responsiveness through quantum effects.

Quantum technology is poised to play a transformative role in combating climate change and enhancing community resilience. Its applications in climate modeling, renewable energy optimization, environmental monitoring, data security, and material development are paving the way for innovative and sustainable solutions. As these technologies continue to evolve, their impact on addressing global environmental challenges will undoubtedly become more significant.