The robot engages with the plants, as the plants’ mobile tendrils explore their surroundings, wrapping themselves around any suitable object they comes across. The robot challenges the simplistic view of plants as mere resources, with play acting as a means for living beings to explore their capabilities.
When technology and plants meet, an unexpected alliance is forged that transcends traditional boundaries. We envision a world where robots and humans relate to plants in a non-extractive manner, recognizing that, despite being seemingly inanimate, plants deserve our empathy and serve as a source of learning. In this envisioned reality, both natural and artificial environments, not only coexist but thrive in harmony. The question arises: can this be a possible reality or will it remain just a vision?
This discussion will be moderated by professor Petra J.E.M van Dam.