Research and development for increased application of data science in sustainability analysis

This chapter summarizes research needs in developing and enhancing data sets, data sources, and data science methods for applying data science to the broad field of sustainability. Overall, while there is a great need to develop environmental science, manufacturing and technology systems, and societal systems data at greater spatial and temporal resolution, there is also a need to consider what sustainability questions can be addressed by creative use of the data sets currently available. Furthermore, advances in data science remain foundational to realizing the potential of many techniques (including machine learning, artificial intelligence) to enhancing environmental and societal sustainability. Advances in explainable AI, edge computing, and applying the advantages of the 5G technology that is on the horizon are all required. Importantly, engagement of multiple disciplines - particularly computer science - along with multiple science and engineering disciplines will be foundational to bringing the power of data science methods to bear on the pressing sustainability challenges.