In sustainable robotics, our research focuses on creating robotic hardware from biodegradable, renewable, and recyclable materials. By developing bio-based and environmentally-friendly polymers, we aim to reduce waste and environmental impact across the entire life cycle of robotic systems—from production to disposal. This approach is vital for addressing the growing need for sustainable technologies in a resource-constrained world.

Soft, flexible, and lightweight polymers and composites offer a promising path toward sustainability in robotics. These materials provide unique opportunities to incorporate biodegradable or renewable resources and to explore novel recycling methods, due to the rich spectrum of available biopolymers. However, achieving the necessary durability and functionality for robotics applications remains a challenge. Our research addresses this by designing actuators and sensors that leverage these materials while meeting the high performance demands of robotic systems.

A key aspect of our work is integrating sustainability as a core metric in the development of new robotic technologies. We ensure that alternative materials not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance or complement innovative actuation concepts. For instance, our soft pneumatic actuators and sensors demonstrate how resource and energy efficiency can be achieved without compromising performance. Expanding this material spectrum to include both soft and rigid options is essential to broaden the applications of sustainable robotics across indoor, outdoor, and aquatic environments.

This paradigm shift in robotic hardware design goes beyond improving locomotion and interaction. It requires rethinking materials and architectures to make robots resource-efficient and environmentally sustainable. By integrating material innovation with application-driven development, we adopt a holistic approach rarely achieved in robotics. Through our efforts, we aim to advance robotics technologies that are environmentally friendly and innovative, while addressing societal challenges, such as reducing dependence on non-renewable resources.