Quantum computing enables a quantum computer to perform calculations in a short space of time, something that would take a traditional computer decades to do and consume a considerable amount of energy. Google, IBM, Atos, and even the French start-up Quandela are actively working on the development of their quantum platforms, with significant advances already being made in synergy with AI. The prospect of mastering this technology is now becoming more tangible but there are still many challenges to overcome.

When AI meets quantum computing

When artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing become symbiotic, a world of possibilities will open up, promising a revolution in many sectors. Quantum computers are not simply more powerful versions of traditional computers, their technology is fundamentally different and disruptive! Quantum computing, with its ability to perform calculations at high speed with unprecedented efficiency, increases the capabilities of AI exponentially.

This combination has the potential to solve complex problems much faster than traditional computers, thanks to quantum superposition and entanglement. Quantum AI can analyse massive volumes of information and data in record time. This ability is enabling significant advances in fields such as meteorology and statistics. Machine learning algorithms, when run on quantum computers, can learn and adapt at a much faster rate, paving the way for more advanced and accurate AI systems.

Q4Climate – the union of quantum and climate research

The possibilities for effectively tackling climate-related challenges could depend heavily on the capabilities of computer systems and artificial intelligence. The Q4Climate (Quantum for Climate) initiative, which brings together academia and industry, focusses on the use of quantum research to combat climate change. Its 2021 report highlights the importance of these technologies for optimising renewable energies and reducing carbon emissions.

Quantum sensors show great potential for improving our understanding of climate models. Faced with the climate crisis, adopting high-performance yet eco-responsible quantum computing is crucial. This is all the more relevant given that the global technological infrastructure could consume 21% of the world’s electrical energy by 2031. The advent of large quantum computers could offer efficient methods for simulating complex physical systems, which are essential in the fight against climate change. It is therefore imperative to make computing more energy efficient in order to reduce the global carbon footprint.

Quantum computing, AI and environmental challenges

Quantum computing has great potential for addressing environmental issues, but it requires interdisciplinary collaboration to create effective solutions. France, as the European leader with 18% of start-ups and 17% of venture capital investment in this sector, is banking on quantum computing to address climate issues. By focussing on environmental applications right from the development of quantum algorithms, and by envisaging short-term solutions, even on a small scale, quantum computing promises to have a positive impact on the environment. These climate and technological challenges explain the frenzied global race for leadership as we make the next quantum’ leap.