AI-powered robots help tackle Europe’s growing e-waste problem

To tackle a growing amount of electronic waste, researchers have created robots to make recycling smarter, greener and more efficient. © Stokkete, Shutterstock.com

EU-funded researchers have developed adaptable robots that could transform the way we recycle electronic waste, benefiting both the environment and the economy. By Kaja Šeruga Just outside the historic German town of Goslar, a sprawling industrial complex receives an endless stream of discarded electronics. On arrival, this electronic waste is laboriously prepared for recycling. Electrocycling … Read more

Robo-companion: humanoid robot gets chatty to help elderly hospital patients

Successful trials of ARI, the talking robot, demonstrate its potential to help hospital staff and enhance patient care. © SPRING

EU researchers are testing a robot that can have basic conversations in busy surroundings, with the idea of assisting people arriving at hospitals. By Gareth Willmer A hospital in central Paris has had an unexpected helper: a full-sized talking humanoid robot. Created by an international team of EU-funded researchers, it can interact with patients, provide … Read more

Science lifts the curtain on the history of European puppet theatre

Sicily’s famous Opera dei Pupi is part of Europe’s rich puppet theatre heritage. © Andrea Izzotti, Shutterstock.com

EU-funded researchers are exploring the rich tapestry of puppetry in Europe since the 1600s and its contribution to shaping Europe’s cultural identity. By Ali Jones Professor Didier Plassard is a leading scholar in theatre studies and puppetry at Paul-Valéry Montpellier 3 University in France. He has spent the last five years exploring the rich history … Read more

From brain maps to living bridges: the innovations set to reshape life in 2025

EU-funded researchers will continue pushing the boundaries in 2025 with advances to benefit society and the environment. © chayanuphol, Shutterstock.com

From solar energy beamed from space to genetic brain maps and live self-repairing bridges, research in 2025 is promising. And we may see more changes that make cities greener and cleaner. By Anthony King Whoever thinks research is not exciting might be in for a surprise. In 2025, we could witness genetic decoding of the … Read more