Land Surveyor Blogs

Ethics and Privacy in the Digital Surveying Era: Navigating New Terrain

The Rise of Digital Surveying Technologies

The digital age has revolutionized the field of land surveying, introducing advanced tools and techniques that have significantly enhanced the accuracy, efficiency, and scope of surveying practices. However, these advancements also bring new ethical challenges and considerations. This section explores the rise of digital surveying technologies, focusing on modern tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), as well as the impact of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) on the field.

A. Modern Surveying Tools and Techniques

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Data Integration and Analysis

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are powerful tools that allow surveyors to integrate and analyze various spatial data sources. GIS technology enables the combination of satellite imagery, aerial photographs, topographic maps, and other spatial data into a single platform, facilitating comprehensive analysis and decision-making. Surveyors use GIS to create detailed maps, plan infrastructure projects, monitor environmental changes, and manage land resources.

Ethical considerations related to GIS include the accuracy and reliability of the data used in these applications. Ensuring that data is accurate, up-to-date, and obtained through ethical means is crucial. Surveyors must also be transparent about the sources of their data and the methodologies used in their analyses to maintain public trust and credibility.

Public Access and Transparency

Many GIS platforms provide public access to spatial data, promoting transparency and enabling community engagement in decision-making processes. However, this accessibility raises questions about data privacy and the potential misuse of information. Surveyors and organizations must balance the benefits of public access with the need to protect individuals' privacy and ensure that sensitive information is not exploited.

For example, publicly accessible GIS data can be used for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster response, but it can also be misused for surveillance or to infringe on individuals' privacy rights. Ethical guidelines and robust data governance frameworks are necessary to safeguard against these risks and ensure that GIS technology is used responsibly.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Aerial Surveys and Data Collection

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have become indispensable tools in modern surveying. UAVs are used for aerial surveys and data collection, offering high-resolution imagery and detailed topographic data that are essential for accurate mapping and analysis. Drones can quickly and efficiently cover large areas, providing surveyors with valuable data for a variety of applications, including construction, agriculture, and environmental monitoring.

However, the use of UAVs raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding surveillance and the invasion of privacy. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can capture detailed images of private properties and individuals, potentially leading to unauthorized surveillance and data collection. Surveyors must navigate these ethical challenges by obtaining proper consent, respecting privacy rights, and adhering to regulations that govern UAV operations.

Regulation and Compliance

The use of UAVs in surveying is subject to regulations that aim to balance the benefits of aerial surveying with privacy and safety concerns. These regulations vary by country and region but generally include requirements for drone registration, operator certification, flight restrictions, and data protection measures. Surveyors must comply with these regulations to ensure that their use of UAVs is legal, safe, and ethical.

For instance, in the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established rules for commercial drone operations, including restrictions on flying over people and at night, maintaining visual line-of-sight, and obtaining waivers for specific activities. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid legal issues and maintain public trust in the use of UAVs for surveying.

B. The Impact of Big Data and AI

Big Data in Surveying

Data Volume and Variety

The rise of big data has transformed the field of surveying by enabling the collection, storage, and analysis of vast amounts of spatial data. Big data encompasses a wide variety of data sources, including satellite imagery, sensor networks, social media, and historical records. This wealth of data provides surveyors with unprecedented insights and capabilities for mapping, modeling, and analysis.

However, the use of big data in surveying raises several ethical considerations. Data ownership and consent are critical issues, as individuals may not always be aware that their data is being collected and used for surveying purposes. Surveyors must ensure that data is obtained legally and ethically, with proper consent and transparency. Additionally, the potential for bias in data interpretation is a significant concern, as biased data can lead to inaccurate or unjust outcomes.

Predictive Analytics

Big data analytics can predict trends and patterns, providing valuable information for urban planning, environmental management, and disaster response. Predictive models can forecast changes in land use, population growth, climate impacts, and other factors that influence surveying and planning decisions. However, ethical challenges arise in ensuring that these predictions are used responsibly and do not lead to discriminatory practices.

For example, predictive analytics can be used to identify areas at risk of flooding or landslides, enabling proactive measures to protect communities. However, if these models are biased or inaccurate, they could lead to unjust policies or resource allocation. Surveyors must ensure that their predictive models are based on reliable data and validated methodologies, and that their use is guided by ethical principles.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

Automation and Efficiency

AI and machine learning algorithms enhance the efficiency of surveying by automating data analysis and decision-making processes. These technologies can quickly process large datasets, identify patterns, and generate insights that would be challenging for humans to detect. AI-powered tools are used in various surveying applications, including image recognition, terrain analysis, and infrastructure monitoring.

While AI offers significant benefits, it also presents ethical concerns related to transparency and accountability. AI systems can be complex and opaque, making it difficult to understand how decisions are made. Surveyors must ensure that their AI tools are transparent, explainable, and accountable, providing clear information about how algorithms work and the data they use.

Bias and Fairness

Ensuring that AI algorithms are free from bias and operate fairly is a significant ethical challenge. Bias in AI can result from biased training data, flawed algorithms, or systemic biases in the data collection process. Biased AI systems can lead to unjust outcomes, such as discriminatory practices in land use planning or resource allocation.

Surveyors must actively work to identify and mitigate bias in their AI tools. This includes using diverse and representative training data, conducting regular audits of AI systems, and involving stakeholders in the development and evaluation of AI applications. By prioritizing fairness and equity, surveyors can ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly and ethically.

The rise of digital surveying technologies has revolutionized the field of land surveying, offering new capabilities and opportunities for improved accuracy, efficiency, and decision-making. However, these advancements also bring new ethical challenges that must be addressed responsibly. The use of GIS, UAVs, big data, and AI in surveying requires careful consideration of data accuracy, privacy, transparency, and fairness.

As the field continues to evolve, surveyors must prioritize ethical principles in their work, ensuring that new technologies are used in ways that respect individuals' rights, promote equity, and enhance societal well-being. By navigating these ethical challenges with integrity and responsibility, surveyors can continue to uphold the values that underpin their profession and contribute to the sustainable and equitable development of our world.

Privacy Concerns in Modern Surveying

As surveying technologies continue to advance, the collection, use, and sharing of location data have become increasingly sophisticated and pervasive. While these developments offer numerous benefits, they also raise significant privacy concerns that must be addressed responsibly. This section explores the ethical implications of collecting and using location data, the importance of data security, and the challenges associated with data sharing in the context of modern surveying.

A. Collection and Use of Location Data

Personal Privacy

Tracking and Surveillance

The widespread use of mobile devices, GPS technology, and other location-tracking tools has made it easier than ever to collect detailed information about individuals' movements. This capability raises serious concerns about tracking and surveillance. Individuals may be unaware of the extent to which their location data is being collected and monitored, leading to potential infringements on their privacy.

For example, mobile apps often track users' locations to provide personalized services or targeted advertising. However, this data can also be used for more intrusive purposes, such as monitoring individuals' movements without their knowledge or consent. The ethical implications of such practices include the potential for misuse of data and the erosion of trust between individuals and data collectors.

Informed Consent

Ensuring that individuals provide informed consent for the collection and use of their location data is a fundamental ethical requirement. Surveyors and organizations must be transparent about how data will be used, stored, and shared. This includes providing clear and accessible information about the purposes of data collection, the entities involved, and the potential risks.

Informed consent involves more than just obtaining a checkbox agreement; it requires meaningful engagement with individuals to ensure they understand the implications of sharing their data. Ethical practices include using plain language in consent forms, regularly updating individuals on how their data is being used, and offering options to opt out or withdraw consent at any time.

Data Security

Protecting Sensitive Information

Surveying data often includes sensitive information that must be protected from unauthorized access. This data can range from personal location histories to detailed maps of private properties. Ethical considerations include implementing robust security measures to safeguard this data and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

Protecting sensitive information involves using encryption, access controls, and other security technologies to ensure that data is only accessible to authorized personnel. Surveyors must also establish protocols for handling and storing data securely, including regular security audits and updates to their systems to address emerging threats.

Data Breaches

The potential for data breaches poses a significant risk to privacy. Data breaches can occur due to hacking, human error, or system vulnerabilities, leading to the unauthorized access and exposure of sensitive information. Surveyors must develop and maintain comprehensive protocols to prevent and respond to data breaches effectively.

Preventive measures include regular security training for employees, implementing multi-factor authentication, and conducting vulnerability assessments. In the event of a data breach, surveyors should have a response plan that includes notifying affected individuals, mitigating the impact of the breach, and taking steps to prevent future incidents. Transparency and accountability are crucial in maintaining trust and demonstrating a commitment to protecting individuals' privacy.

B. Ethical Implications of Data Sharing

Open Data Initiatives

Benefits and Risks

Open data initiatives promote transparency and public access to spatial data, offering numerous benefits such as fostering innovation, supporting research, and enhancing public services. However, these initiatives also raise ethical concerns about privacy and data misuse. Balancing the benefits of open data with the need to protect individual privacy is crucial.

For example, publicly accessible datasets can be used for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster response. However, if not managed properly, these datasets can also expose sensitive information about individuals or communities. Ethical considerations include assessing the potential risks and benefits of open data initiatives and implementing measures to mitigate privacy risks.

Anonymization and Aggregation

Techniques such as data anonymization and aggregation can help mitigate privacy risks by removing or obscuring personally identifiable information (PII). Anonymization involves altering data in a way that prevents individuals from being identified, while aggregation combines data from multiple sources to provide general insights without revealing specific details.

However, these techniques must be implemented carefully to ensure that individuals cannot be re-identified through data linkage or other means. Ethical practices include conducting thorough risk assessments, using robust anonymization methods, and regularly reviewing and updating data protection measures to address new risks and vulnerabilities.

Commercial Use of Data

Data Monetization

The commercialization of location data by private companies introduces ethical challenges related to data ownership and the potential for exploitation. Surveyors and organizations must navigate the ethical implications of selling or sharing data for profit, ensuring that data usage aligns with ethical standards and respects individuals' rights.

Data monetization practices, such as selling location data to advertisers or other third parties, can raise concerns about consent, transparency, and the potential for misuse. Ethical considerations include obtaining explicit consent from individuals for the commercial use of their data, being transparent about the purposes and recipients of data sharing, and ensuring that data usage aligns with individuals' expectations and rights.

Impact on Individuals

The use of location data for targeted advertising and other commercial purposes can impact individuals' privacy and autonomy. Targeted advertising, for example, relies on detailed location data to deliver personalized ads based on individuals' movements and behaviors. While this can enhance the relevance of ads, it can also feel intrusive and manipulative.

Ethical considerations include ensuring that data usage aligns with individuals' expectations and rights. This involves providing clear information about how data will be used, offering opt-out options, and respecting individuals' preferences and consent. Surveyors and organizations must also consider the broader implications of data commercialization, including the potential for discrimination, exploitation, and loss of autonomy.

The rise of digital surveying technologies has transformed the field of land surveying, offering new capabilities and opportunities for improved accuracy, efficiency, and decision-making. However, these advancements also bring significant privacy concerns that must be addressed responsibly. Ensuring the ethical collection, use, and sharing of location data is essential for protecting individuals' privacy and maintaining public trust.

Surveyors and organizations must prioritize data security, transparency, and informed consent in their practices, balancing the benefits of digital technologies with the need to protect individuals' rights and privacy. By navigating these ethical challenges with integrity and responsibility, surveyors can continue to uphold the values that underpin their profession and contribute to the sustainable and equitable development of our world.

Ethical Frameworks and Best Practices

The rapid advancement of digital surveying technologies necessitates the development and implementation of robust ethical frameworks and best practices. These frameworks ensure that surveyors conduct their work with integrity, transparency, and respect for privacy. This section explores the development of ethical guidelines, regulatory compliance, and the implementation of ethical practices in the field of land surveying.

A. Developing Ethical Guidelines

Professional Standards

Code of Ethics

Professional organizations such as the American Association for Geodetic Surveying (AAGS) and the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG) have established codes of ethics to guide surveyors in their work. These codes serve as a foundation for ethical behavior, emphasizing key principles such as integrity, accuracy, and respect for privacy.

• Integrity: Surveyors must conduct their work honestly and transparently, avoiding conflicts of interest and ensuring that their actions align with ethical standards.
• Accuracy: Precision and reliability are critical in surveying. Surveyors must strive to provide accurate and trustworthy data, ensuring that their findings are based on sound methodologies and thorough analysis.
• Respect for Privacy: Protecting the privacy of individuals and communities is paramount. Surveyors must handle data responsibly, ensuring that personal information is safeguarded and used only for its intended purposes.

Continuous Education

Continuous education is essential for surveyors to stay informed about emerging ethical issues and best practices. As technologies and methodologies evolve, surveyors must keep up-to-date with the latest developments and understand their ethical implications.

• Professional Development: Engaging in professional development activities, such as workshops, seminars, and courses, helps surveyors enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Ethical Training: Specific training on ethical issues in surveying, including privacy concerns, data security, and the responsible use of technology, ensures that surveyors are equipped to navigate complex ethical dilemmas.

Regulatory Compliance

Data Protection Laws

Compliance with data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is essential for ethical surveying practices. These regulations set standards for data collection, processing, and storage, ensuring that individuals' privacy rights are protected.

• GDPR: The GDPR provides a comprehensive framework for data protection in the European Union, emphasizing transparency, consent, and data minimization. Surveyors must ensure that their practices align with these principles, obtaining informed consent from data subjects and implementing measures to protect personal data.
• CCPA: The CCPA enhances privacy rights for residents of California, granting them greater control over their personal information. Surveyors operating in California must comply with the CCPA's requirements, including providing clear information about data practices and respecting individuals' rights to access, delete, and opt out of data sharing.

Industry Standards

Adhering to industry standards for data security and privacy helps ensure that surveying practices are ethical and responsible. Industry standards provide a benchmark for best practices, guiding surveyors in implementing effective data protection measures.

• Data Security: Implementing robust data security measures, such as encryption, access controls, and regular security audits, helps protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and breaches.
• Privacy Impact Assessments: Conducting privacy impact assessments (PIAs) for new projects or technologies helps identify potential privacy risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

B. Implementing Ethical Practices

Transparency and Accountability

Clear Communication

Clear communication with clients and the public is essential for building trust and ensuring that individuals are aware of their rights. Surveyors should provide transparent information about how data will be collected, used, and protected.

• Privacy Notices: Providing privacy notices that explain data practices in plain language helps individuals understand how their data will be used and what measures are in place to protect it.
• Consent Forms: Obtaining informed consent through clear and accessible consent forms ensures that individuals are fully aware of the implications of sharing their data.

Accountability Mechanisms

Establishing mechanisms for accountability helps ensure that surveying practices adhere to ethical standards. Accountability mechanisms provide oversight and enable continuous improvement.

• Audits: Regular audits of data practices and security measures help identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements.
• Ethical Review Boards: Ethical review boards, composed of experts in the field, can provide independent oversight and guidance on complex ethical issues, ensuring that decisions are made in accordance with ethical principles.

Balancing Innovation and Ethics

Ethical Innovation

Surveyors should strive to innovate ethically, balancing the benefits of new technologies with the need to protect privacy and uphold ethical principles. Ethical innovation involves considering the long-term impacts of technological advancements on society and ensuring that they are used responsibly.

• Responsible Design: Incorporating ethical considerations into the design and development of new technologies helps ensure that they are used in ways that align with societal values and respect individuals' rights.
• Impact Assessments: Conducting impact assessments for new technologies helps identify potential ethical issues and develop strategies to address them, ensuring that innovations are implemented responsibly.

Stakeholder Engagement

Engaging with stakeholders, including the public, policymakers, and industry experts, helps surveyors understand diverse perspectives and address ethical concerns effectively. Stakeholder engagement promotes transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making processes.

• Public Consultation: Consulting with the public on new projects or technologies helps identify potential concerns and ensures that their views are considered in decision-making processes.
• Collaborative Decision-Making: Involving stakeholders in collaborative decision-making processes helps ensure that diverse perspectives are considered and that ethical principles are upheld.

The rise of digital surveying technologies presents both opportunities and challenges for the field of land surveying. By developing and implementing robust ethical frameworks and best practices, surveyors can navigate these challenges responsibly and ensure that their work aligns with ethical principles. This includes adhering to professional standards, complying with data protection laws, and implementing effective transparency and accountability mechanisms.

Balancing innovation with ethics is crucial for ensuring that new technologies are used in ways that respect individuals' rights, promote equity, and enhance societal well-being. By engaging with stakeholders and considering the long-term impacts of their work, surveyors can continue to uphold the values that underpin their profession and contribute to the sustainable and equitable development of our world.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Exploring real-world examples and case studies helps illustrate the ethical challenges and considerations in modern surveying practices. These examples highlight the importance of ethical guidelines and best practices in addressing privacy concerns, ensuring transparency, and promoting responsible data use. This section delves into ethical challenges in urban planning and environmental and conservation efforts, showcasing how surveyors navigate complex ethical landscapes.

A. Ethical Challenges in Urban Planning

Smart Cities

Data Collection and Privacy

The development of smart cities involves the extensive collection and analysis of data to optimize urban planning, infrastructure, and public services. This data can include everything from traffic patterns and energy usage to personal information collected through smartphones and IoT devices. The ethical considerations in this context are multifaceted:

• Respect for Privacy: Surveyors and urban planners must ensure that data collection respects individual privacy. This involves obtaining informed consent from residents, anonymizing data to protect identities, and implementing robust data security measures.
• Responsible Data Use: The data collected in smart cities should be used responsibly, prioritizing the well-being and rights of residents. This means using data to improve public services and quality of life without infringing on privacy or exploiting vulnerable populations.

Public Involvement

Engaging the public in the development of smart city initiatives is crucial for addressing ethical concerns and ensuring that residents have a say in how their data is used. Public involvement can take various forms:

• Consultations and Workshops: Holding public consultations and workshops allows residents to express their concerns and preferences regarding data collection and use. This helps build trust and ensures that the smart city initiatives reflect the needs and values of the community.
• Transparency and Communication: Providing clear and accessible information about data practices and the goals of smart city projects helps residents understand the benefits and risks. Transparency fosters trust and encourages active participation from the public.

Gentrification and Displacement

Impact on Communities

Urban planning and development often lead to gentrification, which can result in the displacement of existing communities. Surveyors play a crucial role in these processes, and they must consider the ethical implications of their work:

• Equitable Development: Surveyors should strive to promote equitable development that benefits all residents, including vulnerable and marginalized populations. This involves conducting impact assessments to understand how development projects might affect different communities and taking steps to mitigate negative impacts.
• Community Engagement: Engaging with affected communities early in the planning process ensures that their voices are heard and their needs are considered. This can involve public meetings, surveys, and partnerships with local organizations to gather input and feedback.

B. Environmental and Conservation Efforts

Wildlife Monitoring

Ethical Data Collection

Surveyors involved in wildlife monitoring must ensure that their data collection methods do not harm animals or disrupt their habitats. Ethical considerations in wildlife monitoring include:

• Minimizing Human Impact: Surveyors should use non-invasive techniques whenever possible, such as remote cameras, drones, and acoustic monitoring. These methods reduce the need for direct human interaction with wildlife, minimizing stress and disruption to animals.
• Permits and Regulations: Ensuring compliance with local and international wildlife protection regulations is crucial. Surveyors must obtain the necessary permits and follow guidelines to conduct their work ethically and legally.

Data Sharing and Collaboration

Collaboration with conservation organizations and researchers is essential for ensuring that data is used ethically and effectively to support conservation efforts. This involves:

• Ethical Data Use: Sharing data with trusted partners and ensuring that it is used to advance conservation goals rather than for commercial or exploitative purposes. Surveyors should establish data-sharing agreements that outline the ethical use of data.
• Transparency in Research: Being transparent about the methods and findings of wildlife monitoring helps build trust with stakeholders and the public. Publishing results in open-access journals and presenting findings at conferences can contribute to broader conservation efforts.

Climate Change Research

Transparency and Public Trust

Surveyors contributing to climate change research must prioritize transparency and build public trust by communicating findings accurately and responsibly. This involves:

• Clear Communication: Providing clear and accessible information about research methods, findings, and their implications helps the public understand the importance of climate change research. This can involve public lectures, informational websites, and media engagement.
• Engagement with Policymakers: Collaborating with policymakers to ensure that research findings are translated into effective and equitable climate policies. Surveyors should provide evidence-based recommendations and support the development of strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

Ethical Implications of Findings

The ethical implications of climate change research include considering how findings are used to inform policy and action, ensuring that efforts to mitigate climate change are just and equitable:

• Equitable Climate Action: Ensuring that climate policies and actions do not disproportionately impact vulnerable communities. This involves considering the social and economic impacts of climate measures and striving for solutions that benefit all segments of society.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working with experts from various fields, including social scientists, economists, and public health professionals, to develop comprehensive and just climate strategies. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that climate actions address the multifaceted nature of the issue.

The case studies and real-world examples presented highlight the complex ethical challenges faced by surveyors in modern urban planning and environmental conservation efforts. These examples underscore the importance of adhering to ethical guidelines and best practices to navigate these challenges responsibly. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and public engagement, surveyors can ensure that their work aligns with ethical principles and contributes to the well-being of communities and the environment.

Ethical considerations in digital surveying are not merely theoretical; they have practical implications for the lives of individuals and the sustainability of our world. As the field continues to evolve, surveyors must remain vigilant and committed to upholding the highest ethical standards, ensuring that their work benefits society and respects the rights and dignity of all stakeholders.

Wrapping Up:

The rapid advancement of surveying technologies in the digital era has brought about significant ethical and privacy challenges. As surveyors navigate this new terrain, it is essential to prioritize the responsible use of location data, maintain data security and confidentiality, and uphold ethical principles. By developing and adhering to ethical guidelines, engaging with stakeholders, and balancing innovation with ethical considerations, surveyors can ensure that their work contributes positively to society.

Responsible Use of Location Data

The collection and use of location data must be conducted with transparency and informed consent. Surveyors need to communicate clearly about how data will be used and ensure that individuals are aware of their rights. This involves obtaining explicit consent and providing options for individuals to opt out if they wish.

Maintaining Data Security and Confidentiality

Data security is paramount in protecting sensitive information. Implementing robust security measures such as encryption, access controls, and regular audits can prevent unauthorized access and data breaches. Surveyors must also be prepared to respond effectively to any breaches that do occur, maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the process.

Upholding Ethical Principles

Adhering to professional standards and regulatory compliance is crucial for ethical surveying practices. Surveyors should engage in continuous education to stay informed about emerging ethical issues and best practices. By following codes of ethics established by professional organizations and complying with data protection laws, surveyors can ensure their work aligns with ethical standards.

Engaging with Stakeholders

Engaging with stakeholders, including the public, policymakers, and industry experts, helps surveyors address ethical concerns and understand diverse perspectives. Public involvement and clear communication build trust and ensure that the benefits and risks of new technologies are well understood. Collaborative decision-making and transparency are key to fostering an inclusive and ethical approach to surveying.

Balancing Innovation with Ethical Considerations

Innovation in surveying technologies offers significant benefits but must be balanced with ethical considerations. Ethical innovation involves designing and implementing new technologies in ways that respect privacy, promote equity, and enhance societal well-being. Surveyors should conduct impact assessments to identify potential ethical issues and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Commitment to Ethical Practices

In the end, the ethical and privacy challenges in modern surveying are a testament to the field's evolving nature. It is a story of professionals striving to balance technological advancements with the need to protect individual rights and uphold ethical standards. This ongoing commitment to ethical practices ensures that surveying will remain a vital and trusted component of our technological landscape.

By prioritizing ethics and privacy, surveyors can contribute to a better and more equitable future for all. Their work not only supports technological innovation but also upholds the values that are essential for a fair and just society. As the field of surveying continues to evolve, maintaining this commitment to ethical principles will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the digital age and ensuring that the benefits of new technologies are realized responsibly and inclusively.