Artificial Intelligence in the Circular Economy in Finland : Exploring Future Scenarios
avoin
Julkaisu on tekijänoikeussäännösten alainen. Teosta voi lukea ja tulostaa henkilökohtaista käyttöä varten. Käyttö kaupallisiin tarkoituksiin on kielletty.
Lataukset11
Pysyvä osoite
Verkkojulkaisu
DOI
Tiivistelmä
The circular economy (CE) has gained popularity in sustainability studies for reducing waste and improving resource efficiency while also serving as a basis for transitioning towards sustainability. Artificial Intelligence (AI), on the other hand, has been recognized as a means of enhancing practices related to the circular economy by analyzing the available data and automating various processes, conducting predictive maintenance, managing waste more effectively and tracking materials. While there have been attempts to analyze the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and the circular economy, there is still limited future-oriented research on how this relationship may develop over time, especially in the Finnish context.
This thesis proposes an exploration of the alternative futures of using Artificial Intelligence in Finland's circular economy systems by 2035. Specifically, the following research questions are formulated: what alternative future scenarios can be developed for the use of artificial intelligence in circular economy systems in Finland up to 2035, and what implications these scenarios may have for circular economy stakeholders in Finland.
The research employs the qualitative desk-based futures approach. This research is based on the literature review and environmental scanning followed by building the four scenarios with the help of the futures table. The main drivers behind the scenarios were identified using the STEEP framework including social, technological, economical, environmental and political aspects. Based on the selected factors, four different scenarios were built.
The research shows that in order to achieve the desired futures of utilizing Artificial Intelligence in circular economy systems, it is essential not only to make sure that new technologies are developed but also on wider conditions such as digital skills, public awareness, stakeholder collaboration, investment, data-sharing systems, and policy support.