ITA Dossiers
The publication series of the ITA for politics and society
In this series, the ITA summarises the core results of its own research projects as well as of selected projects of other technology assessment institutions. The ITA Dossiers are only two pages long and present the topic in a non-scientific language with a view to options for actions in politics and society.
The ITA Dossiers are published here and on EPUB.OEAW/ITA-Dossiers. ISSN (online): 2306-196
Since we publish the dossiers according to the type and working language of the respective project, the following list may vary slightly from that in German. Click here for our German dossiers.
Da wir die Dossiers je nach Art und Arbeitssprache des jeweiligen Projektes publizieren, kann die folgende Liste zu jener in deutscher Sprache leicht variieren. Klicken Sie hier für unsere deutschen Dossiers.
- (2021). When AI is working for us. ITA dossier no 50 Jannuary 2021; Authors: Johann Čas, Jaro Krieger-Lamina). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-050en.
- (2021). Modelling which future? ITA dossier no 51 (Jannuary 2021; Authors: Daniela Fuchs, Anja Bauer, Leo Capari, Tituts Udrea). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-051en.
- (2020). Electric vehicles in viennese fleets (ITA dossier no. 48en (November 2020; Authors: Steffen Bettin, Michael Ornetzeder, Anna Pavlicek). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-048en.
- (2020). The new Technosciences ITA dossier no. 49en (Oktober 2020; Authors: Karen Kastenhofer). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-049en.
- (2020). Factcheck 5G & Health ITA-Dossier No. 47 (April 2020; AutorInnen: Karen Kastenhofer, Michael Nentwich). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-047en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Electromagnetic fields have already been considered a potential health risk with previous generations of mobile radio communication. In 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified mobile phone radiation as “possibly carcinogenic”. To this day, experts continue to discuss this topic with much controversy. -> 5G, the latest generation of mobile phone networks, promises to transmit larger amounts of data with lower latency. Industry 4.0, augmented reality games or the Internet of things rely on such higher performance. -> The assessment of risks and gaps of knowledge enables precautionary regulation and a prudent approach to 5G
- (2020). AMS Algorithm on trial. ITA-Dossier No 43en (February 2020; Authors: Doris Allhutter, Fabian Fischer, Astrid Mager). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-043en.
- (2020). Implications of electricity storage? (ITA dossier No 46en, January 2020; Authors: Michael Ornetzeder, Steffen Bettin). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-046en.
- (2019). Digitisation and sovereignty of the state. ITA-Dossier Nr. 45en (Oktober 2019; Autoren: M. Nentwich, W. Jäger, G. Embacher-Köhle, J. Krieger-Lamina). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-045en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Digitisation also changes politics and the state. State sovereignty is massively challenged, especially with regard to administrative action, digital infrastructure, and democratic processes.
-> Digital sovereignty refers to the exclusive self-determination of legal entities such as states and natural persons under the conditions of digitisation.
-> In order to (re)establish digital sovereignty, it is necessary to act consistently on various levels (national and international), both in technical, organisational and regulatory terms, and not least in public discourse. - (2019). The spy at home. ITA-Dossier Nr. 44en (September 2019; AutorInnen: Jaro Krieger-Lamina, Felix Schaber, Walter Peissl). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-044en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Devices with digital assistants and voice control, such as “smart speakers”, are becoming more widespread in households where they are potentially eavesdropping on buyers in their most private spaces.
-> The devices collect personal data and send it to the manufacturers. Non-transparent data analysis exacerbates the imbalance between suppliers and consumers.
-> In future, digital assistance systems could manage the access to the (online) world.
-> The assessment of this business model raises not only data protection issues, but also sociopolitical questions. - (2019). Smart grid pilot projects in Europe. ITA dossier no. 42en (April 2019; Author: Michael Ornetzeder). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-042en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> The decarbonisation of the energy system calls for new ways of generating and consuming energy as well as new forms of relations between energy producers and consumers.
-> It is important to understand the complexity of factors influencing the effectiveness and success of smart grid initiatives targeted at small consumers across Europe.
-> It is equally important to assess the impact local solutions have on the whole energy system before applying them widely at regional or national level.
Author: Michael Ornetzeder - (2018). Steering mobility through pricing. ITA dossier no. 41en (November 2018; Authors: Tanja Sinozic, Stefanie Peer, Mahshid Sotoudeh, Niklas Gudowsky). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-041en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Traffic congestion costs the EU over €80 billion annually.
-> All major European cities face the challenge of reducing congestion, pollution and accidents in the years to come.
-> Currently, there is no single consistent mobility pricing scheme in Austria. Various approaches for different transport modes co-exist.
-> Mobility behaviour can be governed sustainably by optimising pricing patterns for all modes of transport and directing them towards common goals.
Authors: Tanja Sinozic, Stefanie Peer, Mahshid Sotoudeh, Niklas Gudowsky - (2018). Nano in coffee capsules. ITA dossier no. 40en (August 2018; Authors: Anna Pavlicek, Gloria Rose, André Gazsó). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-040en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Certain nanomaterials in food packaging promise longer shelf life and freshness.
-> Such materials, products, and related processes pose potential risks to the environment and health.
-> “Safe by Design” (SbD) addresses safety issues during early stages of development.
-> In future, SbD concepts must offer clear added value for users, and additionally specific research for testing and detection methods must be promoted. - (2018). 3D Printing in Medicine. ITA dossier no. 39en (July 2018; Author: Helge Torgersen). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-039en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> 3D printing is already being used for making artificial limbs, dental implants and other medical items specifically adapted to individual patients.
-> Replacement organs cannot be produced yet and remain an option for the future.
-> Access and intellectual property rights, data handling and protection, and incorporating additive manufacturing into medical practice represent crucial challenges. - (2018). Manipulation in Social Media. ITA dossier no. 38en (July 2018; Authors: David Heckenberg, Niklas Gudowsky). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-038en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> So-called “social bots” can create and send automated messages, thus potentially influencing political and other decisions.
-> Based on the data collected, messages can be tailored to personal preferences and address small groups or individuals.
-> Laws are required to describe when and to what extent social media operators need to restrict activities of social bots. - (2018). Energy storage in electricity grids. ITA dossier no. 37en (May 2018; Author: Michael Ornetzeder). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-037en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> The shift towards greater use of renewable energy necessitates more dedicated storage in electrical power systems to provide short-term flexibility.
-> Electricity storage facilitates the decoupling of electricity supply and demand, and can be used to provide a wide range of ancillary services.
-> The future deployment of dedicated electricity storage in Austria and the EU will be strongly influenced by future policies for electricity market design, system operating rules, technology investments, and involvement of consumers and prosumers. - (2018). Inclusion through assistive technologies? ITA dossier no. 36en (May 2018; Authors: Johann Čas, Jaro Krieger-Lamina, Leo Capari). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-036en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> People with disabilities are facing numerous challenges and barriers in their everyday lives.
-> Several socio-political initiatives have been launched so far in order to actively foster the inclusion of disabled people (in areas such as education, employment and social participation).
-> Technologies can play an important role, but full inclusion may only be achieved if additional measures are also implemented. - (2018). Quantified self. ITA dossier no. 35en (April 2018; Authors: Astrid Mager, Katja Mayer). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-035en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Mobile devices are increasingly being used to measure and monitor health and body functions. This is fuelled by a trend towards self- optimisation and increased efficiency.
-> Such tracking devices can contribute to greater autonomy and allow more independence outside of traditional institutions.
-> At the same time, they can also lead to continuous surveillance and heteronomy. Consequently, health apps should be used with caution.
-> Government and politicians should ensure appropriate legal frameworks and support fundamental rights-friendly technology. - (2018). A sky full of delivery drones? ITA dossier no. 34en (April 2018; Authors: Michael Nentwich, Delila Horváth). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-034en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Worldwide, large online retailers, postal operators and numerous start-ups are developing and testing drone-operated parcel deliveries.
-> Despite technology not having been fully developed, feasibility has been demonstrated. However, in most countries, the law does not yet allow autonomous drones; specific air traffic rules would have to be developed.
-> Omnipresent drone flights would have a series of environmental, safety, ethical, and societal implications that stipulate a need for public debate before implementation and regulation. - (2018). How vulnerable are critical infrastructures? ITA dossier no. 33en (March 2018; Authors: Stefan Strauß, Jaro Krieger-Lamina, Walter Peissl). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-033en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Today, social and economic processes are highly dependent on different technologies and their interaction.
-> Critical infrastructures are therefore the "main artery" of the digitally networked society and their functionality is essential for the provision of services of general interest.
-> System failures due to external risk factors, errors inherent to the system or unknown weak points can seriously impair the stability of societal processes.
-> The creation of effective security measures requires above all a greater awareness of the previously underestimated problem of system dependencies. - (2018). Engagement? Yes, if we are heard! ITA dossier no. 32en (March 2018; Authors: Anja Bauer, Daniela Fuchs, Alexander Bogner). Wien. doi:10.1553/ita-doss-032en.DOIDownloadRISENWBIB Abstract
-> Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) calls for continuous societal engagement.
-> Up until now, citizens and third sector actors are not routinely involved in the governance of research and innovation.
-> Citizens and third sector actors face specific barriers to engagement in research and innovation.
-> Policies and practices in support of societal engagement should address questions of relevance, impact, trust, knowledge and skills, time and financial resources, and legitimacy.