3M is launching 3M Futures, a new platform showcasing five global science and technology trends shaping the world today – and the future of tomorrow. The platform explores each topic alongside commentary and perspectives from 3M experts, scientists, engineers and designers at the forefront of their fields. 3M Futures also features data from global, third-party research conducted across 11 countries to understand perceptions of these top science, technology and design trends.
The 3M Futures topics for 2022 are:
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).
- Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Sustainable Materials.
- The New Paradigm – A Pandemic Aware World.
- Equity Through Science and Technology.
“Every day, 3Mers around the world are unlocking the next phase of what’s possible and exploring the latest trends in science and technology,” said Kevin Gilboe, head of 3M Design, International. “3M Futures is a great opportunity for us to showcase the broad ways 3M is helping to shape the future – developing, designing and engineering cutting-edge solutions within the most relevant global trends, while profiling the incredible talent across our company who are experts in their fields.”
The expert contributors chosen to participate include an array of 3M scientists, engineers, designers and other leaders at the forefront of their industries. From artificial intelligence to equity, each is passionate about their field and has a personal interest in broad applications of the relevant technology and science.
The 3M Futures Survey uncovers global perceptions of future technologies, with results from 11 countries and uncovers what respondents believe future innovation should focus on across the globe and the ways they have – or have not – directly interacted with the technologies referenced across the five core trends.
Key findings include:
- Science and technology
Public health, humanitarian crises, extreme weather crises, a cure for Alzheimer’s and ecological disasters are seen as the top problems to focus on over the next 5 years. - Mainstream Virtual Reality
Virtual reality is expected to be a normal part of our everyday lives sooner than other advancements, especially in gaming and entertainment. - AI interest and concerns
The survey results showed that while people are excited about AI, many are concerned about data privacy and want more transparency on how the technology is being used in society. - Sustainability: top environmental threats
Respondents feel single-use plastics are a bigger threat to the environment than fossil fuels and fast fashion. - Real life vs. tech.
In the shadow of the pandemic, tech-driven innovations are being met with some resistance as many are trying to decrease tech in their life and seek in-person socialisation and hobbies.
To download full 3M Futures survey data, including by country and infographic breakdowns, visit: 3M Futures Resource Centere.