04/06/2022
Amid all the “metaverse” talk these days, you’re probably wondering how virtual or augmented reality is functional or practical. While Mark Zuckerberg paints a futuristic picture of people spending hours in headsets and joining virtual concerts, the metaverse is actually already here on a smaller scale.
At SeeBoundless, we’ve been working in VR and AR since 2015 to do work that helps people. We use this technology to tell stories, educate, and make an impact in the real world, rather than serve as an escape from it.
We wanted to talk about different uses of this tech other than just putting on a headset for a game or socializing. Here are some ways AR and VR is already being used for social good and the types of projects we’re passionate about:
1. Illustrating Climate Change:
AR overlays and information can be used to help illustrate the impact of climate change. We've done projects illustrating deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest and other projects look at coral bleaching or wildfires.
2. Reducing Carbon Emissions:
With more capabilities to handle business in high-tech AR or VR spaces the need for certain business travel decreases. Traveling for vacation may always be popular, but opportunities to see more cities, historical sites, museums and more in the comfort of your own home can cut down on emissions in the future.
3. Better Training Experiences:
Employees can get hands-on training for real-world work situations. Think of a doctor practicing surgery in VR. Or an HR specialist using VR training to prepare for handling disputes in the workplace.
4. More Hands-On Education:
Students can gain access to and learn about subjects through AR models. Imagine dissecting a virtual frog in science class or learning about history and culture through models of artifacts scaled to the size of their desk.
5. Creating Sustainable Infrastructure:
AR models and troubleshooting of future infrastructure projects can save a load of time and energy -- and physical materials and carbon use -- during the planning stages of projects. It can help visualize functionality and problem solve in the field.