Zero-footprint eco-robotics: A new perspective on biodegradable robots

Robots are viable candidates for automating environmental monitoring. However, potentially toxic and non-biodegradable materials comprising state-of-the-art robots may threaten vulnerable natural environments and limit robots' use in their monitoring. When expecting robotic platforms to become increasingly ubiquitous in the near future, new robot design approaches involving biodegradable and non-fossil-based materials are required to create robots with zero and near-zero environmental impact. Here we propose the material selection and application routes for material systems integrating sensing, actuation, communication, and computation. We highlight the out-standing potential of combining living cells in the design of zero-footprint eco-robots. Due to their natural responsiveness to external triggers and morphing capabilities, alone or in combination with synthetic counterparts, living cells may drastically increase the functionality of the designed robotic systems. The present paper introduces a concept of zero-footprint, transient eco-robotics and provides methods for selection of suitable materials combining structural and functional capabilities, including sensing, self-healing, and self-terminating. We suggest that these methods can build the foundation for future environmentally sustainable robotic systems, that follow the circular economy paradigm. We also emphasize the multidisciplinary nature of the zero-footprint eco-robot design, involving material scientists, biologists, and roboticists.