The improvements in technology currently bring about harmful effects on the environment. While it is generally believed that having simpler lives is the only solution, others are of the view that technological advances can help to tackle these environmental problems. Although reducing the use of technology in daily life seems a suitable option, I think it is better to use technology itself in solving these issues.
On the one hand, some people argue that individuals need to live simple lives and rely less on technology because people can walk or cycle rather than drive cars. This way the current number of cars being manufactured and used will decrease, which leads to a decrease in the levels of exhaust fumes and less pollution. Additionally, people can try to reduce their consumption of electricity so that the exploitation of natural resources such as fossil fuels or nuclear power can be minimised. An example of this idea is the annual event called Earth Hour where everyone is asked to turn their lights off for sixty minutes.
On the other hand, some others including me believe the developments of technology can greatly contribute to environmental protection. Because with technological improvements, people are able to come up with ways to recycle materials such as paper or glass, which reduces the problem of waste disposal. Additionally, technology can also help to create electricity using renewable resources. For example, many countries in the world have built plants that utilise solar energy to generate power. As a result, it is not necessary to rely on non-renewable resources, and people can create electricity without significantly damaging the environment.
In conclusion, while some people think that they should live simpler lives to prevent environmental issues, I would argue that these problems can be dealt with technological improvements.
Important Vocabulary
• exploitation: the use of land, oil, minerals, etc
Example: commercial exploitation of the mineral resources in Antarctica
• waste disposal: the act of getting rid of sth
• plant: a factory
Example: a chemical plant
• utilise: to use something, especially for a practical purpose
Example: The Romans were the first to utilise concrete as a building material.
• solar energy