A few days ago, the journal Engineering unveiled its list of the Top 10 Engineering Achievements that have been completed and verified to be effective in a global scope within the past 5 years:
1. CAR-T cell therapy
2. Chang’e 6
3. LEO satellite constellation
4. Flexible displays
5. High-temperature gas-cooled reactor nuclear power station
6. Smart factories
7. Autonomous vehicles
8. Surgical robots
9. The Sora video-generation artificial intelligence model
10. Ultra-large wind power generation equipment
2. Chang’e 6
3. LEO satellite constellation
4. Flexible displays
5. High-temperature gas-cooled reactor nuclear power station
6. Smart factories
7. Autonomous vehicles
8. Surgical robots
9. The Sora video-generation artificial intelligence model
10. Ultra-large wind power generation equipment
While the list undoubtedly showcases a range of remarkable accomplishments, I couldn’t help but notice the presence of a significant gap that warrants attention. These advancements seem to fall short in addressing many of the 14 Grand Challenges for Engineering — a framework designed to confront some of humanity’s most urgent issues.
The 14 Grand Challenges aim not only to drive technological advancements but also to cultivate a world that is more sustainable, safe, healthy, and joyful — ultimately striving to improve the planet for future generations. Why does the engineering community prioritize short-term achievements over the long-term future of humanity? Could it be that humanity’s future simply isn’t profitable enough?
In 2019, Oxford scientist Pierrehumbert issued a stark warning "With regard to the climate crisis, yes, it’s time to panic." However, a year earlier, Bendell had already declared the likelihood of "an inevitable near-term social collapse due to climate change." How many more dire warnings must we endure before the engineering community shifts its focus from profit-driven technologies to addressing the existential challenges threatening our survival?
