MIT Technology Review’s annual list identifies technologies anticipated to significantly impact our lives. While the 2024 list is being developed, the publication has disclosed some technologies that didn’t make the cut and the reasons behind their exclusion. These excluded technologies, despite their promising potential, were left out primarily due to factors such as impracticality, high costs, or slow progress in development. However, it is essential to keep an eye on these innovations as they can still transform our lives in the coming years if their challenges are addressed and overcome.
New Alzheimer’s disease drugs: potential and challenges
Firstly, new Alzheimer’s disease drugs were left out due to their severe side effects, including brain swelling and bleeding, as well as their complex administration process that requires IV doses and consistent MRIs to monitor brain swelling. Additionally, these drugs have not yet demonstrated significant improvements in the cognitive function of patients, making them less attractive options for those seeking effective treatments. Despite ongoing research and clinical trials, alternative treatments have yet to emerge that can successfully mitigate the debilitating symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease while minimizing side effects.
Sustainable aviation fuel: the quest for a breakthrough
Secondly, sustainable aviation fuel, produced from cooking oil, residual animal fats, or agricultural waste, was not included because there wasn’t a key moment or “breakthrough” to merit inclusion. To reduce emissions from air travel, the production and usage of this fuel need to increase significantly. Moreover, adopting sustainable aviation fuel by major airlines and supporting policies from governments worldwide will play a crucial role in hastening its widespread implementation. As the urgency to combat climate change intensifies, breakthroughs in sustainable aviation fuel technology and infrastructure must be prioritized to lower the aviation industry’s carbon footprint effectively.
Solar geoengineering: uncertain future and ethical concerns
The third technology is solar geoengineering, the debated notion of dispersing particles into the stratosphere to reflect the sun’s energy and cool Earth. Although preliminary tests have been conducted, the future direction of this research remains uncertain. Some scientists argue that solar geoengineering could provide a way to buy time as the world works towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, concerns have been raised about the potential unknown side effects and ethical implications of manipulating the Earth’s climate in this manner.
Male-male reproduction: scientific hurdles and societal implications
The possibility of male-male reproduction has yet to be listed. Despite a study demonstrating the creation of mice pups using cells from two male mice, further research and testing is necessary before this can develop into a breakthrough technology for human application. The challenges posed by the complexities of mammalian genetic material and the need for a conducive environment for embryo implantation are some of the factors that must be thoroughly examined. Additionally, ethical and legal considerations must also be taken into account, as the implications of this technology may necessitate new frameworks to safeguard individual rights and societal norms.
Over-the-counter Narcan: life-saving accessibility
Finally, over-the-counter Narcan, an opioid overdose-reversing nasal spray, wasn’t deemed a scientific or technological breakthrough but rather a development in distribution. However, its unrestricted accessibility without a prescription is crucial for saving lives. This accessibility not only provides a quicker response to an overdose situation but also empowers individuals and communities to take action in emergencies without waiting for medical professionals. In turn, it significantly increases the chances of survival for those who suffer an opioid overdose, giving them a new lease on life and an opportunity to seek the help they need for recovery.
The anticipation for the 2024 List of 10 Breakthrough Technologies
Stay tuned for the 2024 List of 10 Breakthrough Technologies by MIT Technology Review, set to be released in January. This eagerly anticipated list will showcase innovative technologies with the potential to revolutionize various industries and reshape our world. As we approach the release date, excitement continues to build as experts and enthusiasts alike speculate on the cutting-edge advancements that will make this year’s list.
FAQs
Why were new Alzheimer’s disease drugs excluded from the list?
New Alzheimer’s disease drugs were left out due to their severe side effects, complex administration process, and lack of significant improvements in patients’ cognitive function. Ongoing research and clinical trials continue to search for alternative treatments that can mitigate Alzheimer’s disease symptoms while minimizing side effects.
Why was sustainable aviation fuel not included in the list?
Sustainable aviation fuel was not included because there wasn’t a pivotal moment or “breakthrough” to merit its inclusion. To reduce emissions from air travel, the production and usage of this fuel need to increase significantly. Additionally, adoption by significant airlines and supporting policies from governments worldwide will play crucial roles in its widespread implementation.
What are the concerns regarding solar geoengineering?
Although solar geoengineering might help buy time as the world works towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, concerns have been raised about the potential unknown side effects and ethical implications of manipulating the Earth’s climate in this manner.
What challenges and considerations need to be addressed for male-male reproduction to become a breakthrough technology?
Further research and testing are needed to overcome challenges posed by the complexities of mammalian genetic material and the need for a conducive environment for embryo implantation. Additionally, ethical and legal considerations must be considered to safeguard individual rights and societal norms.
Why was over-the-counter Narcan not considered a scientific or technological breakthrough?
Over-the-counter Narcan wasn’t deemed a scientific or technological breakthrough because it is a development in distribution rather than innovation. However, its accessibility without a prescription is crucial for saving the lives of those who suffer an opioid overdose.
When will the 2024 List of 10 Breakthrough Technologies be released?
The 2024 List of 10 Breakthrough Technologies by MIT Technology Review is set to be released in January. Stay tuned for the announcement of innovative technologies with the potential to revolutionize various industries and reshape our world.
