A Future Shaped by Semiconductors
Last year at SEMICON Japan, volunteers from the SEMI Japan Sustainability Committee surveyed 101 conference attendees to gather their thoughts on the future powered by semiconductors based on its 2040 Future Visions, Shaped by Semiconductors graphic. The graphic imagines a world where AI and robots aid in everyday life.
(click image to enlarge)
The participants were distributed across several industry sectors:
- Suppliers (Materials and Components)
- Materials Manufacturing
- Semiconductor Manufacturing (IDM and Foundry)
- Equipment Manufacturing
- Electronics Product Manufacturing
- Research and Academia
Their roles were as follows:
- Sales and Planning
- R&D
- Manufacturing and Production
- Environment and Sustainability
- Students
Participants Felt Positively About the Future of Semiconductors
Many respondents highlighted the potential for semiconductors to improve everyday life. When asked about how they felt about the future after viewing the graphic, they reported feeling very positive (73%) or somewhat positive (27%).
However, some participants highlighted potential concerns.
- Some believed the vision outlined in the Future Visions graphic was scaled down compared to futuristic predictions they heard as children
- Others noted a growing gap between those who benefit from technological innovation and those who don’t
- Some participants shared concern over the risks of excessive automation, referencing the movie WALL-E as an example
Participants also offered open-ended responses, noting that:
- The future appeared optimistic and clear
- Many anticipated improvements in daily life and comfort
- Semiconductors were viewed as fundamental for future prosperity
- Some imagined a society with similar gadgets to Doraemon, a popular Japanese anime, and believed it could become a reality
The Relationship Between Semiconductors and Society
The link between semiconductors and society in 2040 was evident. Over 90% of respondents reported they could “clearly” or “somewhat” picture how semiconductors will improve life by 2040, as depicted in the Future Visions graphic. Most respondents also agreed that semiconductor technology will continue to play a foundational role in society.
Awareness of Environmental Impact and Industry Initiatives
The Committee also asked semiconductor industry professionals about the environment. It found that 94% of respondents were either “very aware” or “aware” of the effects that semiconductor manufacturing can have on the planet.
While participants acknowledged potential environmental risks, most believed their company’s products and services contributed to problem solving. 78% reported that balancing semiconductor performance and environmental impact is already a common and standard practice across the industry value chain. In addition, they noted rising customer expectations for more environmentally-friendly processes.
Summary of Survey Findings
Overall, respondents maintained a positive view of semiconductor technology because of its value to society. At the same time, they demonstrated a realistic awareness of environmental impacts and societal challenges. For industry professionals, balancing innovation with environmental concerns is already routine.
Learn more about SEMI’s sustainability efforts:
- Visit the SEMI Japan Sustainability Project website
- Discover the SEMI Sustainability Initiative: JP page / EN page
- View the 2026 SEMI Japan Sustainability Committee member list
- For questions, please reach out to [email protected]
Reiko Eda is Sustainability Manager at SEMI Japan.
