Agulo, Janelle V.

BS - Accountancy

Science Technology and Society

1. How can education and public awareness campaigns drive behavioral changes
to address the dual crises of climate change and energy scarcity?
ANSWER: Education and public awareness campaigns are essential tools for
driving behavioral changes to combat climate change and energy scarcity. By
disseminating scientific information about the causes and impacts of these crises,
education fosters critical thinking and responsible decision-making. Schools in the
Philippines can integrate climate literacy into the curriculum, teaching students the
importance of reducing carbon emissions ayyyyyy k platforms, such as television
and social media, also play a significant role in reaching the broader population.
For example, campaigns such as Earth Hour promoted globally and in the
Philippines, encourage individuals and businesses to turn off non-essential lights to
save energy and raise awareness about energy conservation. Additionally, local
government units (LGUs) can implement workshops and campaigns in rural areas
to educate citizens on renewable energy options, such as solar panels, and the
importance of reducing dependency on non-renewable resources. Furthermore,
Government agencies like the Department of Energy can play a vital role in
promoting energy conservation through public awareness campaigns, disseminating
information about energy-saving tips, and providing incentives for the adoption of
renewable energy sources. By raising awareness, campaigns empower individuals
to adopt sustainable habits, such as reducing electricity consumption, using public
transport, and supporting eco-friendly policies. Ultimately, education and
awareness build a foundation for collective action to address these interconnected
crises.

2. What role does technological innovation play in resolving the global energy
crisis and reducing greenhouse gas emissions?
ANSWER: Technological innovation plays a central role in addressing the global
energy crisis and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The development of
renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, provides
sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, reducing both energy scarcity and
environmental impact. In the Philippines, solar energy has emerged as a promising
 solution, particularly in rural areas where access to electricity is limited. Initiatives
like the installation of solar-powered water pumps and lighting systems help
address both energy and infrastructure gaps. Additionally, advancements in energy
storage technology, such as lithium-ion batteries, ensure consistent energy supply,
even when renewable sources are intermittent. The government, through the
Department of Science and Technology, can support research and development in
renewable energy technologies, providing grants and incentives to promote
innovation in this field. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs), which are gaining
traction in urban centers like Metro Manila, demonstrates how technology reduces
emissions from traditional transportation. On a larger scale, smart grids optimize
energy distribution, improving efficiency and minimizing waste. For example, the
government’s promotion of renewable energy under the Philippine Energy Plan
supports innovations that make clean energy widely available. Through continuous
research and investment in green technologies, the transition to a low-carbon
economy becomes feasible, tackling both the energy crisis and climate change
simultaneously. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that technology alone cannot
solve the climate crisis; it requires a concerted effort from governments, businesses,
and individuals to implement these innovations effectively.

3. How can sustainable agricultural practices help address food shortages while
minimizing environmental degradation?
ANSWER: Sustainable agricultural practices are critical to addressing food
shortages while preserving the environment. By implementing methods like crop
diversification, organic farming, and agroforestry, farmers can increase yields
without harming ecosystems. In the Philippines, sustainable rice farming using the
System of Rice Intensification (SRI) enhances productivity by optimizing water
and soil management. This reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides,
thereby protecting soil health and minimizing pollution. Additionally, urban
agriculture initiatives, such as rooftop gardens in cities like Quezon City, help
maximize food production in limited spaces while providing communities with
access to fresh produce. Drip irrigation systems and rainwater harvesting further
ensure efficient water use, addressing both food and water scarcity. Sustainable
livestock farming practices also minimize methane emissions and land degradation,
supporting environmental conservation. The government, through programs like
the Department of Agriculture’s Organic Agriculture Act, encourages farmers to
adopt sustainable practices that improve resilience to climate change. Furthermore,
agroecology, which emphasizes ecological principles and local knowledge, can
help address food insecurity by increasing the availability of healthy, locally grown
 food. Think of community gardens, farmers' markets, and local food systems that
connect consumers directly to producers. These initiatives are becoming
increasingly popular in urban areas of the Philippines, promoting local food
production and reducing reliance on imported goods. By embracing sustainable
agriculture, we can create a more equitable and resilient food system that benefits
both people and the planet. By balancing food production with environmental
stewardship, sustainable agriculture ensures long-term food security while
preserving natural resources for future generations.

4. How can reducing food waste help mitigate environmental crises and alleviate
global food shortages?
ANSWER: Reducing food waste is a vital strategy to address environmental crises
and global food shortages. Food waste contributes significantly to greenhouse gas
emissions when organic matter decomposes in landfills, releasing methane. It also
represents a waste of critical resources, such as water, energy, and labor, used in
food production. In the Philippines, initiatives like “Save Food Asia-Pacific”,
supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), emphasize reducing
food waste through public awareness and improved food storage technologies.
Households can adopt practices such as meal planning and composting to minimize
waste, while businesses, including restaurants and supermarkets, can donate surplus
food to food banks instead of discarding it. The National Solid Waste Management
Commission (NSWMC) is promoting waste segregation and composting programs
to reduce the amount of food waste sent to landfills. Moreover, in the food service
industry, restaurants and hotels can implement strategies to reduce food waste, such
as optimizing portion sizes and donating surplus food to charities. Food banks and
community kitchens can play a crucial role in redistributing surplus food to those in
need. The Department of Agriculture can also work with farmers to reduce post-
harvest losses by improving storage and transportation infrastructure. The
government’s “Zero Hunger Philippines” initiative also advocates for redistributing
edible food to vulnerable populations, addressing both hunger and waste. For
example, companies partnering with organizations like the Philippine Food Bank
Foundation ensure that surplus food benefits those in need. By reducing food
waste, society can alleviate resource strain, lower emissions, and make food more
accessible to underserved communities, contributing to both environmental
sustainability and food security.