The short answer is NO. Not unless we decide to eliminate cash and also contactless credit cards with a pin requirement for transaction over a certain limit. We would also need to stop using ATM's.
Sure, you could make a case for payment apps to replace traditional transacting, but what about the food industry. How do you use the salt with confidence while in a restaurant? Unless our meals are prepared by robots, then going to a restaurant could not be done without touch.
The service industry would be unable to function. How to get a haircut or get your nails done without touch? What about escalators? You do not have to hold onto the rail, but most of us still do.
IS TOUCH THE PROBLEM?
COVID made experts of many of us. It turns out that this virus can be spread by droplets in the air. It also turns out that masks are not 100% effective in preventing infection.
SHOULD WE MAKE A CHANGE?
Viruses and bacteria are spread in public spaces but keep in mind that our immune systems require some exposure to keep us healthy. Living in a sterile world leaves our immune systems severely compromised when something does manage to get through.
THE SHIFT IN RETAIL
For years there has been a gradual shift to no-touch technology in public spaces, particularly in public bathrooms - e.g., hand sensor taps and dryers. In 2020 there was an accelerated introduction of no-touch sensors to open entrance doors and to dispense parking tickets, but there is a limit to how far we can take this.
Unless we decide to make fundamental changes in other public spaces, like eliminating public schooling, music concerts, and spectator sports, then efforts in the public retail space are in vain.
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