Dr. Mona Murshed, Founding CEO of Generation, sheds light on AI's role in the workplace and its adoption challenges, especially among older workers. Shona McCallum discusses how drones are being used to tackle the litter crisis on Mount Everest, merging technology with environmental responsibility. Dr. Ahmed Taha introduces innovative electric wallpaper for home heating, showcasing its efficiency and potential cost savings. This dynamic discussion uncovers the intersection of tech, ethics, and environmental impact.
The increasing integration of AI in workplaces is leading to significant declines in hiring for entry-level and mid-level positions, exacerbating age bias.
Technological innovations like drones are being utilized to address litter problems on Mount Everest, enhancing local safety and environmental preservation.
Deep dives
Impact of AI on Employment
Recent research indicates a significant decline in hiring for entry-level and mid-level positions due to the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. Employers are anticipating a 50-60% decrease for entry-level roles and a 20-40% decrease for mid-level roles in the next year. This trend exacerbates existing biases in hiring, as employers exhibit a preference for younger candidates, particularly for positions that utilize AI technologies. Specifically, the data revealed that older candidates were three times less likely to be considered for such roles, highlighting a troubling age bias in the wake of AI adoption.
Drones as a Solution for Everest Cleanup
The Mount Everest environment faces significant challenges from the waste generated by climbers, with an average of 8 kilograms of litter left per person. Innovative use of technology, specifically drones, is being explored to aid in cleaning up this waste and improving the safety of local Sherpas. Recent tests successfully demonstrated that drones could transport up to 15 kilograms of trash from higher elevations back to base camp, reducing the need for dangerous journeys through the treacherous Khumbu Icefall. This effort not only addresses pollution but also aims to protect the local communities who bear the responsibility of waste removal.
Electric Wallpaper as a Heating Solution
Electric wallpaper technology is being trialed in Scotland as a potential solution for heating poorly insulated homes. This innovative heating method utilizes graphene printed wallpaper that emits far infrared rays when electrified, effectively warming objects in the room rather than just the air. Early evaluations suggest that this technique could enhance heat retention, making it a more efficient heating solution compared to traditional methods. Ongoing research aims to assess its cost-effectiveness and viability for broader application beyond its current trials in the UK.
This week we're looking at artificial intelligence in the workplace - how are employers and employees using it ? An international survey provides some answers.
Also on Tech Life:
We bring you a technological solution to the problem of litter being left behind by climbers on Mount Everest.
Electric car manufacturers are rated on their human rights policies.
And find out how you can heat your home - with electric wallpaper.
Presenter: Graham Fraser
Producer: Tom Quinn
(Photo: An abstract futuristic representation of the letters "AI". Credit: Getty Images)
Contact us: Tech Life would love to hear your stories, ideas and views about the programme. You can email us at techlife@bbc.co.uk or contact us via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 0320.
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