Article: http://www.physorg.com/news107446364.html
Summary:
Engineers Perfecting Hydrogen-Generating Technology
The engineers are researching on the production of hydrogen by adding water to an alloy. The Purdue researchers are thinking of ways to create particles of the alloy that could be positioned in a tank such that they react with water to produce hydrogen on demand. This technology makes use of water which is added to the alloy of aluminium and gallium; thus, producing hydrogen gas. Professor Jerry Woodall, the brain behind the whole process stated that gallium is used because it prevents oxidation from occurring. The storage and transport of hydrogen is not necessary in this case due to the generation of hydrogen on demand. Acquisition of raw materials, aluminium and gallium, is not of an issue as both can be easily and cheaply obtained. This is useful for large scale production of this technology. Continuation of this research has produced an alloy that gives a more efficient reaction, liberating hydrogen at a faster rate. This technology has the potential to apply in various aspects of our life, such as in vehicles or for commercial use. Hydrogen can be used to run internal combustion engines or even submarines as soon as the technology has been fully developed. The emission of water from the usage of hydrogen is a plus factor for the technology to be fully internalized into our daily life. The Purdue researchers discovered that making the process competitive with conventional energy sources, would require alumina to be recycled back into aluminum using a dedicated infrastructure. However, the recycling of the alumina using the current technology would cost less. The researchers mentioned that further research has to be done to improve the alloy. Furthermore, develop systems for the controlled delivery of hydrogen needs perfecting.
Reference
Purdue University (2007,August 27). Engineers perfecting hydrogen-generating technology. Retrieved November 1,2008, from http://www.physorg.com/news107446364.html
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
W11T1: Brain Mapping
Two articles (given week 8), “A computer that can ‘read’ your mind” and “Ethics and mapping the brain”, describe the positive and negative effects brain mapping could have on society. Imagine you are a researcher (of any topic, brain mapping or otherwise). How would you predict and minimize potential unethical abuses of your work? Use approximately 300 words.
Every emerging technology certainly brings about positive and negative effects on the society. Brain mapping is one of such technologies; used to predict and control people’s thoughts as well as determining mental diseases. This technology can be very helpful in mental illnesses’ treatment, psychological therapy and criminal investigation which are beneficial to hospitals, clinics, as well as to the police. On the other hand, the act of abusing it such as, using it to reveal people’s privacy, making money by giving false fortune telling, can brings about negative impact to human beings. However, I find that brain mapping technology is still considered useful if we are able to use it wisely. Therefore, there must be certain measures to be done in order to carry out this technology safely and effectively.
First of all, there must have a restriction to prevent misusing of brain mapping technology. It will be best if the accessibility of this technology is only given to certain areas such as hospitals, polyclinics, courts and police stations. Also, the operating of this technology can only be given rights to highly trained and educated people such as doctors, polices and law officers. This restriction can limit the number of people who have access to use of this technology and the others will not have the chance to abuse it.
Secondly, we have to make sure that this technology gives accurate prediction so that they will not bring negative impacts to the users even when it is used ethically. Taking the case of the air stewardess, Nancy; she was predicted to develop schizophrenia, a mental disorder which will likely to create a threat to the airline industry. Her license was revoked and was fired. (Marano, 2003) What will happen if the prediction given was not accurate? Nancy will lose her job innocently. Thus, there is a need to make sure that brain mapping technology gives accurate readings in order to help the society.
Thirdly, this technology must be tested and ensured that it is safe to use to prevent any harmful effect to the user. This is very important as we cannot treat human lives as guinea pigs. Thus, numerous testing needs to be done to make sure that the devices used for this technology are reliable.
In conclusion, the above factors need to be considered in order to maximize the results of brain mapping. This will naturally contribute positive results to the society.
References
National Science Foundation. (2008, May 30). A Computer that can ‘read ‘ your mind. Retrieved August 6, 2008, from http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jspcntn_id=111641&org=olpa&from=news
Marano, L. (2003, June 3). Ethics and Mapping the Brain. Washington Times.
Every emerging technology certainly brings about positive and negative effects on the society. Brain mapping is one of such technologies; used to predict and control people’s thoughts as well as determining mental diseases. This technology can be very helpful in mental illnesses’ treatment, psychological therapy and criminal investigation which are beneficial to hospitals, clinics, as well as to the police. On the other hand, the act of abusing it such as, using it to reveal people’s privacy, making money by giving false fortune telling, can brings about negative impact to human beings. However, I find that brain mapping technology is still considered useful if we are able to use it wisely. Therefore, there must be certain measures to be done in order to carry out this technology safely and effectively.
First of all, there must have a restriction to prevent misusing of brain mapping technology. It will be best if the accessibility of this technology is only given to certain areas such as hospitals, polyclinics, courts and police stations. Also, the operating of this technology can only be given rights to highly trained and educated people such as doctors, polices and law officers. This restriction can limit the number of people who have access to use of this technology and the others will not have the chance to abuse it.
Secondly, we have to make sure that this technology gives accurate prediction so that they will not bring negative impacts to the users even when it is used ethically. Taking the case of the air stewardess, Nancy; she was predicted to develop schizophrenia, a mental disorder which will likely to create a threat to the airline industry. Her license was revoked and was fired. (Marano, 2003) What will happen if the prediction given was not accurate? Nancy will lose her job innocently. Thus, there is a need to make sure that brain mapping technology gives accurate readings in order to help the society.
Thirdly, this technology must be tested and ensured that it is safe to use to prevent any harmful effect to the user. This is very important as we cannot treat human lives as guinea pigs. Thus, numerous testing needs to be done to make sure that the devices used for this technology are reliable.
In conclusion, the above factors need to be considered in order to maximize the results of brain mapping. This will naturally contribute positive results to the society.
References
National Science Foundation. (2008, May 30). A Computer that can ‘read ‘ your mind. Retrieved August 6, 2008, from http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jspcntn_id=111641&org=olpa&from=news
Marano, L. (2003, June 3). Ethics and Mapping the Brain. Washington Times.
Writing Assignment 2
(3) Stephens adopt a system framework for solving environmental problems. Is it appropriate for developing countries or countries with limited financial resources to adopt a “system framework” in solving large-scale problems such as environmental problems?
Large-scale problems such as environmental issues pose a serious threat faced by the world today. Deforestation, excessive usage of natural resources such as fuel-based products, air pollution which results from the harmful gases produced by factories and vehicles, as well as the imbalances in the ecosystem, are the major causes of environmental pollution. If these problems persist, the world will be faced with grave concerns of global warming, depletion of the ozone layer, rising sea levels and drastic changes in the global weather. Adopting a system framework is imperative and crucial in solving such problems. A system framework refers to a framework where the people involved view technology as an interdependent component of an organization (eg. society) that impacts on other technologies, activities, organizations, users, decision-makers, and other people. Thus, adopting a system framework for solving large-scale problems, such as environmental-related issues, is beneficial to both developing and developed countries. However, developing countries with limited financial resources might not be the most suitable candidates to adopt this system.
First of all, one important and common factor that influences a society significantly is the use of technology. Developing countries are small and have limited resources available for their use; thus, certain technology requiring large amount of resources will not work in their countries. In Stephen’s article (2006), the carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies used to capture, transport and store carbon dioxide yield great potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Unfortunately, the technology costs are high and require high operating energy, thus a developing country adopting this technology will be likely to fail (Stephen, 2006). A good example is the Ketzin, which is a “dozy village” of 4000 people nestled in the Havel countyside. Ketzin was chosen as “the site of mainland Europe’s first large-scale adopting CCS demonstration project”. However, there is “no news at the moment” that it has made a difference in climate change. This is being predicted to remain the same for the next few years (Putting Carbon, 2006). Consequently, developing countries will benefit more in the long run by using a technology which costs less albeit with less effective results. According to Cathy Majtenyi (2008), nationals in Cambodia use ceramic water purifiers and peat stoves for safe drinking water. Users are satisfied with the “low-tech innovations which require fewer resources, are less expensive and easier to maintain than conventional technologies” (Maiteny, 2008). They have less of an impact on the environment and improve the lives of people in poor countries by saving them time, money, and other resources.
In addition, the financial factor is also an important factor influencing people and their education and employment. Developing countries are financially limited as compared to developed countries, thus developing countries, more often than not, have difficulty in hiring skilled laborers to operate machineries such as in coal-fired power plants, controlled by technology. In order for most technology to attain positive results in contributing to environmental preservation, highly educated technicians and operators are essential to maintain the equipment and to operate it efficiently. Other than that, the education system needs strengthening to educate more skilled laborers. Jacek Podkanski, a senior energy technology specialist says “First comes efficiency, then CCS,” which implies that in order for a country to adopt an advanced technology, there must be a basic supporting skills present and constant maintenance work in order to yield positive contribution to the society (Putting Carbon, 2006). However, hiring skilful laborers from developed countries or training laborers require time and cost. Furthermore, in Lisa’s article (2008), it is stated that there will be job losses in certain sectors when developing countries adjust to the shift from low technology to high technology (Schlein, 2008). Hence, it will be better if developing countries maintain their level of technology used to improve their employment rate and financial state.
Moreover, the economy of developing countries is weaker in contrast with the economies of developed countries. Weaker countries such as China, Brazil, Russia and India do not have the means to solve large-scales problems without aid from richer countries such as the US, Japan and Canada that are in the first place, have been said to be mainly responsible for such issues. Furthermore, to impose such an unnecessary burden on them would cripple their economy when they can focus on trade in order to boost their economy. Mr. Bush, the president of United State, once mentions, "We are in this together. We will come through it together. (We are) confident that the world's major economies can overcome the challenges we face." He was emphasizing that there should be a collective effort between developing and non-developing countries, with richer countries providing more monetary assistance and technology (Wood, 2008).
Even though developing countries are financially limited, a system framework is still important to solve large-scale problems because it is imperative for efforts to bear results. Large-scale problems are often too tedious and unsolvable purely by other means. "Technological progress is ultimately probably the most important driver of incomes, of growth in developing countries," said Andrew Burns, the lead economist at the World Bank, and main author of a recent report on technology in developing nations (Rodgers, 2008). The spread of technology in the developing world will not necessarily bring western-style progress or prosperity. According to Molella of the Lemelson Center (2008), "they're changing these cultures the way they are changing the West” and they don't always have to “serve the purposes of progress”. Therefore, it is “clear that fewer lives are mired in poverty”, and “more are benefiting from the opportunities made possible by the spread of technology” which is needed for “efficiency and effectiveness”, as it is “an integral part of every organization”.(Rodgers,2008)
In conclusion, we are aware that adopting a system framework is a solution to many large-scale problems. However, the reasons mentioned above are limitations as to why it is better for developing countries not to adopt a system framework. Although it might pose a threat to large-scale problems to the world, forcing a system framework on these countries might further aggravate their problems. Therefore, sticking to the same technology works best for developing countries.
References
Majtenyi, Cathy (2008, May 19). Low Technology Solutions Find Favor in Developing World. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from
http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2008-05/2008-05-19-voa25.cfm
Putting the Carbon Back. (2006). pp.620-623
Rodgers, Bill (2008, May 17). Technology Boosts Income, Reduces Poverty In Developing Countries. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2008-05/2008-05-17- voa25.cfm?CFID=54440909&CFTOKEN=15840507
Schlein, Lisa (2008, Sep 24). New Report Finds Green Economy Could Create Millions of Jobs. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://www.voanews.com/english/2008-09-24-voa47.cfm
Stephens, J.C (2006). CCS: Research is not enough. In The world energy book. (pp.15-18). London: World Energy Council.
Wood, Barry (2008, Oct 12). Developing and Industrial Countries Endorse Plan to Stabilize Financial Markets. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://www.voanews.com/english/2008-10-12-voa6.cfm
Large-scale problems such as environmental issues pose a serious threat faced by the world today. Deforestation, excessive usage of natural resources such as fuel-based products, air pollution which results from the harmful gases produced by factories and vehicles, as well as the imbalances in the ecosystem, are the major causes of environmental pollution. If these problems persist, the world will be faced with grave concerns of global warming, depletion of the ozone layer, rising sea levels and drastic changes in the global weather. Adopting a system framework is imperative and crucial in solving such problems. A system framework refers to a framework where the people involved view technology as an interdependent component of an organization (eg. society) that impacts on other technologies, activities, organizations, users, decision-makers, and other people. Thus, adopting a system framework for solving large-scale problems, such as environmental-related issues, is beneficial to both developing and developed countries. However, developing countries with limited financial resources might not be the most suitable candidates to adopt this system.
First of all, one important and common factor that influences a society significantly is the use of technology. Developing countries are small and have limited resources available for their use; thus, certain technology requiring large amount of resources will not work in their countries. In Stephen’s article (2006), the carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies used to capture, transport and store carbon dioxide yield great potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Unfortunately, the technology costs are high and require high operating energy, thus a developing country adopting this technology will be likely to fail (Stephen, 2006). A good example is the Ketzin, which is a “dozy village” of 4000 people nestled in the Havel countyside. Ketzin was chosen as “the site of mainland Europe’s first large-scale adopting CCS demonstration project”. However, there is “no news at the moment” that it has made a difference in climate change. This is being predicted to remain the same for the next few years (Putting Carbon, 2006). Consequently, developing countries will benefit more in the long run by using a technology which costs less albeit with less effective results. According to Cathy Majtenyi (2008), nationals in Cambodia use ceramic water purifiers and peat stoves for safe drinking water. Users are satisfied with the “low-tech innovations which require fewer resources, are less expensive and easier to maintain than conventional technologies” (Maiteny, 2008). They have less of an impact on the environment and improve the lives of people in poor countries by saving them time, money, and other resources.
In addition, the financial factor is also an important factor influencing people and their education and employment. Developing countries are financially limited as compared to developed countries, thus developing countries, more often than not, have difficulty in hiring skilled laborers to operate machineries such as in coal-fired power plants, controlled by technology. In order for most technology to attain positive results in contributing to environmental preservation, highly educated technicians and operators are essential to maintain the equipment and to operate it efficiently. Other than that, the education system needs strengthening to educate more skilled laborers. Jacek Podkanski, a senior energy technology specialist says “First comes efficiency, then CCS,” which implies that in order for a country to adopt an advanced technology, there must be a basic supporting skills present and constant maintenance work in order to yield positive contribution to the society (Putting Carbon, 2006). However, hiring skilful laborers from developed countries or training laborers require time and cost. Furthermore, in Lisa’s article (2008), it is stated that there will be job losses in certain sectors when developing countries adjust to the shift from low technology to high technology (Schlein, 2008). Hence, it will be better if developing countries maintain their level of technology used to improve their employment rate and financial state.
Moreover, the economy of developing countries is weaker in contrast with the economies of developed countries. Weaker countries such as China, Brazil, Russia and India do not have the means to solve large-scales problems without aid from richer countries such as the US, Japan and Canada that are in the first place, have been said to be mainly responsible for such issues. Furthermore, to impose such an unnecessary burden on them would cripple their economy when they can focus on trade in order to boost their economy. Mr. Bush, the president of United State, once mentions, "We are in this together. We will come through it together. (We are) confident that the world's major economies can overcome the challenges we face." He was emphasizing that there should be a collective effort between developing and non-developing countries, with richer countries providing more monetary assistance and technology (Wood, 2008).
Even though developing countries are financially limited, a system framework is still important to solve large-scale problems because it is imperative for efforts to bear results. Large-scale problems are often too tedious and unsolvable purely by other means. "Technological progress is ultimately probably the most important driver of incomes, of growth in developing countries," said Andrew Burns, the lead economist at the World Bank, and main author of a recent report on technology in developing nations (Rodgers, 2008). The spread of technology in the developing world will not necessarily bring western-style progress or prosperity. According to Molella of the Lemelson Center (2008), "they're changing these cultures the way they are changing the West” and they don't always have to “serve the purposes of progress”. Therefore, it is “clear that fewer lives are mired in poverty”, and “more are benefiting from the opportunities made possible by the spread of technology” which is needed for “efficiency and effectiveness”, as it is “an integral part of every organization”.(Rodgers,2008)
In conclusion, we are aware that adopting a system framework is a solution to many large-scale problems. However, the reasons mentioned above are limitations as to why it is better for developing countries not to adopt a system framework. Although it might pose a threat to large-scale problems to the world, forcing a system framework on these countries might further aggravate their problems. Therefore, sticking to the same technology works best for developing countries.
References
Majtenyi, Cathy (2008, May 19). Low Technology Solutions Find Favor in Developing World. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from
http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2008-05/2008-05-19-voa25.cfm
Putting the Carbon Back. (2006). pp.620-623
Rodgers, Bill (2008, May 17). Technology Boosts Income, Reduces Poverty In Developing Countries. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2008-05/2008-05-17- voa25.cfm?CFID=54440909&CFTOKEN=15840507
Schlein, Lisa (2008, Sep 24). New Report Finds Green Economy Could Create Millions of Jobs. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://www.voanews.com/english/2008-09-24-voa47.cfm
Stephens, J.C (2006). CCS: Research is not enough. In The world energy book. (pp.15-18). London: World Energy Council.
Wood, Barry (2008, Oct 12). Developing and Industrial Countries Endorse Plan to Stabilize Financial Markets. Voice of America. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://www.voanews.com/english/2008-10-12-voa6.cfm
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The Ethics of Climate Change: Pay Now or Pay More later? - By John Broome
(1) Broome maintains that how we deal with climate change in our generation is an ethical issue. Do you agree that our decisions and actions relating to climate change are ethical issues? Give your reasons and support them with clear evidence.
The nation’s discussions of climate change and its impacts have evolved significantly over the past several years. The rising of sea-levels, global warming, deforestation, the imbalanced of eco-system and pollutions are some major examples of environmental problems that the Earth is prone to face if measures to protect the environment are not done. This may in turn, results in massive lost of human’s and animal’s lives. Statistics have shown that “The European heat wave of 2003 is estimated to have killed 35,000 people” and “In 1998 floods in China adversely affected 240 million.” (Broome,2008). Such unbelievable figures are indeed shocking and contributed to a large percentage of the annual death toll. There is now a clearer image that climate change is occurring and that human activities are primarily responsible for such impacts. However, there are other reasons contributing to climate change are ethical issues.
Personal transportation has become a common trend in the world. Nowadays, many people chose to drive to work or school when their destination is just within walking distance. Public transports such as MRT and LRT are considered ‘troublesome’ to many even though they are cheap and less polluting compared to cars. It is undeniable that having a personal transport is much more accessible compared to public transport and the time taken to reach their destination is faster. However, driving cars produce harmful gases that results in air pollution and this thus contribute to the climate change in long term. This is considered an ethical issue as one’s benefits resulting in the harm of another. Therefore, one should try to compensate by helping the other, which is in this case the ‘environment’, by walking on certain days if distance is assessable. One can also compensate in another way by doing voluntary work to compensate others that are affected by the pollution.
National day is a yearly event held in every country. During this day, the people in the country will celebrate the country’s birthday with fireworks, performances, helicopters, airplanes and parachutes. Fireworks cause great amount of pollution to the air; performances which requires many materials to enhance the event, contributes to land pollution when disposed of waste is at a faster rate than it can be cleared. In addition to air pollution, airplanes and helicopters produced large amount of smoke into the air. This brings about drastic change in climate as it is observed that the following day would normally be a rainy day. This ethical issue of sacrificing the damages to the Earth in exchange of a memorable day requires compensation and sustaining of individual’s effort in saving the Earth. The government should build more power plants in the country to improve the clarity of air. More landfill areas can also be built to mitigate land pollution. Individual can help to play apart by not littering and picking up litters found on land.
In office, papers are usually thrown away when printed incorrectly or when reports are of no use. This results in wastage of papers thus killing many trees. One can play a part by promoting the recycling, reducing and reusing campaign, as well as proposing to the government to plant more trees. The ethics in this case is to contribute but not accepting anything in return.
Global warming undeniably is an ethical issue that we must face no matter in the present situation or in the future. Greenhouse gases have already been admitted into continues to warm the climate system. We can only reduce the cause affecting global warming but we cannot totally remove it permanently by any means. Therefore, future climate change is inevitable.
In conclusion, I agree that our decisions and actions relating to climate change are ethical issues through there are undeniable issues as well. I believed that decisions and actions over the next decade will have a significant influence on the magnitude of future climate change and our ability to adapt to its impacts.
The nation’s discussions of climate change and its impacts have evolved significantly over the past several years. The rising of sea-levels, global warming, deforestation, the imbalanced of eco-system and pollutions are some major examples of environmental problems that the Earth is prone to face if measures to protect the environment are not done. This may in turn, results in massive lost of human’s and animal’s lives. Statistics have shown that “The European heat wave of 2003 is estimated to have killed 35,000 people” and “In 1998 floods in China adversely affected 240 million.” (Broome,2008). Such unbelievable figures are indeed shocking and contributed to a large percentage of the annual death toll. There is now a clearer image that climate change is occurring and that human activities are primarily responsible for such impacts. However, there are other reasons contributing to climate change are ethical issues.
Personal transportation has become a common trend in the world. Nowadays, many people chose to drive to work or school when their destination is just within walking distance. Public transports such as MRT and LRT are considered ‘troublesome’ to many even though they are cheap and less polluting compared to cars. It is undeniable that having a personal transport is much more accessible compared to public transport and the time taken to reach their destination is faster. However, driving cars produce harmful gases that results in air pollution and this thus contribute to the climate change in long term. This is considered an ethical issue as one’s benefits resulting in the harm of another. Therefore, one should try to compensate by helping the other, which is in this case the ‘environment’, by walking on certain days if distance is assessable. One can also compensate in another way by doing voluntary work to compensate others that are affected by the pollution.
National day is a yearly event held in every country. During this day, the people in the country will celebrate the country’s birthday with fireworks, performances, helicopters, airplanes and parachutes. Fireworks cause great amount of pollution to the air; performances which requires many materials to enhance the event, contributes to land pollution when disposed of waste is at a faster rate than it can be cleared. In addition to air pollution, airplanes and helicopters produced large amount of smoke into the air. This brings about drastic change in climate as it is observed that the following day would normally be a rainy day. This ethical issue of sacrificing the damages to the Earth in exchange of a memorable day requires compensation and sustaining of individual’s effort in saving the Earth. The government should build more power plants in the country to improve the clarity of air. More landfill areas can also be built to mitigate land pollution. Individual can help to play apart by not littering and picking up litters found on land.
In office, papers are usually thrown away when printed incorrectly or when reports are of no use. This results in wastage of papers thus killing many trees. One can play a part by promoting the recycling, reducing and reusing campaign, as well as proposing to the government to plant more trees. The ethics in this case is to contribute but not accepting anything in return.
Global warming undeniably is an ethical issue that we must face no matter in the present situation or in the future. Greenhouse gases have already been admitted into continues to warm the climate system. We can only reduce the cause affecting global warming but we cannot totally remove it permanently by any means. Therefore, future climate change is inevitable.
In conclusion, I agree that our decisions and actions relating to climate change are ethical issues through there are undeniable issues as well. I believed that decisions and actions over the next decade will have a significant influence on the magnitude of future climate change and our ability to adapt to its impacts.
Reference
Broome,J.(2008,May 19). The Ethics of Climate Change. Scientific American Magazine.
Retrieved August 5,2008, from http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=the-ethics-of-climate-change&ec=b_at11
Broome,J.(2008,May 19). The Ethics of Climate Change. Scientific American Magazine.
Retrieved August 5,2008, from http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=the-ethics-of-climate-change&ec=b_at11
Friday, October 31, 2008
Radical Plans for Waste Could Herald a Big Clean-up -By Joanna Collins
1. Briefly compare and contrast any two waste disposal schemes (eg. zero waste and landfilling, landfilling and using incinerators or any other methods you know) and decide which one might be more suitable for your country.
As the state of technology advances, standards of living have improved, along with the larger increases in production and consumption of goods and materials. This results in the great generation of waste, which in turn causes soil contamination, the depletion of natural resources, air and water pollution, global warming and a generation of stench. Domestic, commercial and industrial waste, along with littering and illegal dumping, places enormous pressure on the natural environment. It has been predicted that the amount of rubbish contributed from households will be doubled by the year 2020 to approximately 40 million tones per year (Collins, 2002). Such an enormous figure would definitely shock many who are still unaware of the amount of waste that they are producing. Thus, there is certainly a need to adopt a disposal scheme to reduce waste dramatically, in order to save the world from adverse impacts.
There are two waste disposal schemes – zero waste and landfilling. Each may be suitable for a country to solve their waste disposal problems. Zero waste is a waste disposal scheme that aims to guide people in recycling materials, such that waste is reused to reach the aim of reducing waste to zero. Another method of waste disposal is landfilling. A landfill is a site for the disposal of waste materials by burial and it is the oldest form of waste treatment. Landfills are often constructed in low lying areas and built in cells that may encompass from 50 to 150 acres, thus, creating a landfill is generally unsuitable in Singapore due to the limited area of land. Moreover, building a landfill in Singapore is typically unattractive as the waste generates odor that can often be detected outside the boundaries. This leads to the unwanted attraction of birds, insects and other wildlife to the site and creates a negative tourist image. On the other hand, the recycling of materials does not require large amount of land and does not create pollution to the environment. Dry recyclables such as bottles, cans and plastics are much easier to carry out and provides a clean and green image. Thus, with regards to the limited land of Singapore and to reduce pollutions for better tourist attraction, the zero waste disposal scheme would be more appropriate.
Besides recycling materials, creating public awareness by reducing waste is necessary by encouraging the participation of Singaporeans in the zero waste scheme. For example, getting customers to engage in a shopping centre’s recycling program could mean that they are encouraged to avoid getting multiple plastic bags or paper bags. This can help to reduce the use of non-biodegradable plastics which is harmful to the Earth’s ozone layer. Moreover, such programs are cost effective and yet there are funds to be made too. According to Robin Murray, a leading zero-waste economist in Britain, “resource recovery facilities and exchange networks were found to be turning waste into an asset, creating small business opportunities and employment in struggling communities.” (Collins, 2002) It would means that a zero waste scheme is able to create more employments in the country. Alternatively, the development of landfill infrastructure and maintenance of the land is cost effective. Furthermore, there is a need to train landfill staff to operate such a system. Therefore, in terms of financial and employment side, zero waste disposal scheme proves to be a better option to a country.
Most of the new landfills are designed and built to store waste, which is thought to be a safe containment of garbage. The landfill can accommodate large amount of waste which can be cleared in a short period of time. However, zero waste disposals take a longer time to recycle the waste. The landfills that are closed have certain beneficial such as sites for golf-courses and ski-mountains. Therefore, in order to clear a large amount of waste in a short time, adopting a landfilling scheme is more appropriate.
In conclusion, there are pros and cons of developing a zero waste scheme or landfilling scheme. The zero waste disposals scheme is inexpensive, clean and environmental friendly but slow and provides lesser output as compared to the use of landfilling or incineration. On the other hand, the landfilling scheme is fast and efficient but cost effective, land consuming and creates pollution. However, to adopt a waste disposal scheme in Singapore, the best option is still the zero waste disposals scheme. Singapore is a small country with limited land and does not produce large amount of waste as compared to other bigger countries like Britain, New Zealand and Canada. In addition, it can reduce pollution, making Singapore a better tourist attraction site.
As the state of technology advances, standards of living have improved, along with the larger increases in production and consumption of goods and materials. This results in the great generation of waste, which in turn causes soil contamination, the depletion of natural resources, air and water pollution, global warming and a generation of stench. Domestic, commercial and industrial waste, along with littering and illegal dumping, places enormous pressure on the natural environment. It has been predicted that the amount of rubbish contributed from households will be doubled by the year 2020 to approximately 40 million tones per year (Collins, 2002). Such an enormous figure would definitely shock many who are still unaware of the amount of waste that they are producing. Thus, there is certainly a need to adopt a disposal scheme to reduce waste dramatically, in order to save the world from adverse impacts.
There are two waste disposal schemes – zero waste and landfilling. Each may be suitable for a country to solve their waste disposal problems. Zero waste is a waste disposal scheme that aims to guide people in recycling materials, such that waste is reused to reach the aim of reducing waste to zero. Another method of waste disposal is landfilling. A landfill is a site for the disposal of waste materials by burial and it is the oldest form of waste treatment. Landfills are often constructed in low lying areas and built in cells that may encompass from 50 to 150 acres, thus, creating a landfill is generally unsuitable in Singapore due to the limited area of land. Moreover, building a landfill in Singapore is typically unattractive as the waste generates odor that can often be detected outside the boundaries. This leads to the unwanted attraction of birds, insects and other wildlife to the site and creates a negative tourist image. On the other hand, the recycling of materials does not require large amount of land and does not create pollution to the environment. Dry recyclables such as bottles, cans and plastics are much easier to carry out and provides a clean and green image. Thus, with regards to the limited land of Singapore and to reduce pollutions for better tourist attraction, the zero waste disposal scheme would be more appropriate.
Besides recycling materials, creating public awareness by reducing waste is necessary by encouraging the participation of Singaporeans in the zero waste scheme. For example, getting customers to engage in a shopping centre’s recycling program could mean that they are encouraged to avoid getting multiple plastic bags or paper bags. This can help to reduce the use of non-biodegradable plastics which is harmful to the Earth’s ozone layer. Moreover, such programs are cost effective and yet there are funds to be made too. According to Robin Murray, a leading zero-waste economist in Britain, “resource recovery facilities and exchange networks were found to be turning waste into an asset, creating small business opportunities and employment in struggling communities.” (Collins, 2002) It would means that a zero waste scheme is able to create more employments in the country. Alternatively, the development of landfill infrastructure and maintenance of the land is cost effective. Furthermore, there is a need to train landfill staff to operate such a system. Therefore, in terms of financial and employment side, zero waste disposal scheme proves to be a better option to a country.
Most of the new landfills are designed and built to store waste, which is thought to be a safe containment of garbage. The landfill can accommodate large amount of waste which can be cleared in a short period of time. However, zero waste disposals take a longer time to recycle the waste. The landfills that are closed have certain beneficial such as sites for golf-courses and ski-mountains. Therefore, in order to clear a large amount of waste in a short time, adopting a landfilling scheme is more appropriate.
In conclusion, there are pros and cons of developing a zero waste scheme or landfilling scheme. The zero waste disposals scheme is inexpensive, clean and environmental friendly but slow and provides lesser output as compared to the use of landfilling or incineration. On the other hand, the landfilling scheme is fast and efficient but cost effective, land consuming and creates pollution. However, to adopt a waste disposal scheme in Singapore, the best option is still the zero waste disposals scheme. Singapore is a small country with limited land and does not produce large amount of waste as compared to other bigger countries like Britain, New Zealand and Canada. In addition, it can reduce pollution, making Singapore a better tourist attraction site.
Reference
Collins, J. (2002, Oct 3rd). Radical plans for waste could herald a big clean-up. TheGuardian Weekly. P25.
Collins, J. (2002, Oct 3rd). Radical plans for waste could herald a big clean-up. TheGuardian Weekly. P25.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
W9T2: Difficulties Faced in Engineering Classes
What difficulties do you have writing in your engineering classes? How will you continue to improve? Use approximately 300 words.
I have difficulty in writing my lab report for one of my module, Introduction to Biotransport. Most of the time, I could think of the answers to a question but I could not express myself well enough to write out a flowing paragraph. For example, “What is the limitation to this viscosity experiment?” In my mind, I could think of the necessary answers such as the equipment provided is not high-tech enough, parallax error, human recording errors etc. I could list out the points contributing to this limitation but to explain it in a reporting style, I always have a hard time figuring out what to write and elaborate on and most of the time, my sentences for report writing are very choppy.
To resolve this difficulty, I will normally list out my answers in point form and then, I will try to link one or two points together and form it into a sentence. After that, I will try to think of the possible consequences to the points mention in the sentences. Next, I will reconstruct the sentences formed previously such that the consequences are linked with the main reason. To link most of the points together smoothly, I will have to use a few transition signals to make the sentences less choppy and more flowing.
An example of an answer to the above question showing the reason, cause and consequence, ‘due to the weak attachment of the stopcock to the bottle cap, there might be possible water leakage from the point of attachment and thus the flow rate Q calculated will be lower than the actual value. Hence, the calculated value of the viscosity will be higher than the accurate value.’
To improve my writing further, I will read up reports online and try to learn the technique and tone of writing a good report. I will improve my writing by going through the report a few times. As the lab report for the module is done in a group of four, I will then send to everyone and ask for their comment before doing a final edit. Some times, they will help me to correct some of my commonly made grammatical mistakes.
I have difficulty in writing my lab report for one of my module, Introduction to Biotransport. Most of the time, I could think of the answers to a question but I could not express myself well enough to write out a flowing paragraph. For example, “What is the limitation to this viscosity experiment?” In my mind, I could think of the necessary answers such as the equipment provided is not high-tech enough, parallax error, human recording errors etc. I could list out the points contributing to this limitation but to explain it in a reporting style, I always have a hard time figuring out what to write and elaborate on and most of the time, my sentences for report writing are very choppy.
To resolve this difficulty, I will normally list out my answers in point form and then, I will try to link one or two points together and form it into a sentence. After that, I will try to think of the possible consequences to the points mention in the sentences. Next, I will reconstruct the sentences formed previously such that the consequences are linked with the main reason. To link most of the points together smoothly, I will have to use a few transition signals to make the sentences less choppy and more flowing.
An example of an answer to the above question showing the reason, cause and consequence, ‘due to the weak attachment of the stopcock to the bottle cap, there might be possible water leakage from the point of attachment and thus the flow rate Q calculated will be lower than the actual value. Hence, the calculated value of the viscosity will be higher than the accurate value.’
To improve my writing further, I will read up reports online and try to learn the technique and tone of writing a good report. I will improve my writing by going through the report a few times. As the lab report for the module is done in a group of four, I will then send to everyone and ask for their comment before doing a final edit. Some times, they will help me to correct some of my commonly made grammatical mistakes.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
W7T1: Summarising a Word Article
Read and summarise a 500-1000 word article related to the 14 grand challenges for engineering.
Article :
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2008/feb/15/technological.challenges
Summary
The human race will be facing some of its biggest challenges in the predicted next 50 years. The prediction by futurologists on the rapid rate of progress which will increase by 30 fold in the next 50 years will be the catalyst for challenges such as reversing the effects of ageing, reprogramming genes to prevent diseases and producing clean energy. Also, such rapid rate of progress will have much impact on the condition of living of us humans. To name a few, better understanding of our genes leading to personalization of medicines and thus longer, healthier lives and more environmentally sustainable ways of living. A group of scientists, entrepreneurs and thinkers convened by the US National Academy of Engineering (NAE) to identify future life changing problems believes that the growing and expending population is causing an immediate problem in sustaining life in the continuing advancement while taking into consideration the improvement of the quality of life. The topic of the usage of clean energy was a priority. The group has identified as sunshine being the most feasible energy for us to tap and they believe that it is possible for us to meet 100% of our energy needs by only capturing one part in 10,000 of the sunlight that falls on Earth. Besides clean energy, clean water and personalization of medicine is a top issue. The insufficient supply of water in many regions of the world is still a problem. And the discussion of how we should use the recent success in sequencing of the human genome to develop methods such as enabling doctors to forecast the benefits and side effects of potential treatments or cures of individuals. As said by Ray Kurzweil, the technique of modifying behavior of genes will enable us to control progression of disease and ageing. Lastly, the advancement of computer intelligence would enable automated diagnosis and prescriptions for treatment as they predict that non-biological intelligence will surpass that of human intelligence. However, experts said that economic and political will, will be the main drive in meeting the challenges.
Article :
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2008/feb/15/technological.challenges
Summary
The human race will be facing some of its biggest challenges in the predicted next 50 years. The prediction by futurologists on the rapid rate of progress which will increase by 30 fold in the next 50 years will be the catalyst for challenges such as reversing the effects of ageing, reprogramming genes to prevent diseases and producing clean energy. Also, such rapid rate of progress will have much impact on the condition of living of us humans. To name a few, better understanding of our genes leading to personalization of medicines and thus longer, healthier lives and more environmentally sustainable ways of living. A group of scientists, entrepreneurs and thinkers convened by the US National Academy of Engineering (NAE) to identify future life changing problems believes that the growing and expending population is causing an immediate problem in sustaining life in the continuing advancement while taking into consideration the improvement of the quality of life. The topic of the usage of clean energy was a priority. The group has identified as sunshine being the most feasible energy for us to tap and they believe that it is possible for us to meet 100% of our energy needs by only capturing one part in 10,000 of the sunlight that falls on Earth. Besides clean energy, clean water and personalization of medicine is a top issue. The insufficient supply of water in many regions of the world is still a problem. And the discussion of how we should use the recent success in sequencing of the human genome to develop methods such as enabling doctors to forecast the benefits and side effects of potential treatments or cures of individuals. As said by Ray Kurzweil, the technique of modifying behavior of genes will enable us to control progression of disease and ageing. Lastly, the advancement of computer intelligence would enable automated diagnosis and prescriptions for treatment as they predict that non-biological intelligence will surpass that of human intelligence. However, experts said that economic and political will, will be the main drive in meeting the challenges.
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