  The Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution foretold of during the 1960s is
well underway in the second decade of the 21st century. Its period of
phenomenal growth likely lies ahead. Still, we believe, there are crucial
lessons that biology can offer that will enable a prosperous future for AI. For
machines in general, and for AI's especially, operating over extended periods
or in extreme environments will require energy usage orders of magnitudes more
efficient than exists today. In many operational environments, energy sources
will be constrained. Any plans for AI devices operating in a challenging
environment must begin with the question of how they are powered, where fuel is
located, how energy is stored and made available to the machine, and how long
the machine can operate on specific energy units. Hence, the materials and
technologies that provide the needed energy represent a critical challenge
towards future use-scenarios of AI and should be integrated into their design.
Here we make four recommendations for stakeholders and especially decision
makers to facilitate a successful trajectory for this technology. First, that
scientific societies and governments coordinate Biomimetic Research for
Energy-efficient, AI Designs (BREAD); a multinational initiative and a funding
strategy for investments in the future integrated design of energetics into AI.
Second, that biomimetic energetic solutions be central to design consideration
for future AI. Third, that a pre-competitive space be organized between
stakeholder partners and fourth, that a trainee pipeline be established to
ensure the human capital required for success in this area.
