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 and adopting sustainable energy
practices and also it can foster a sense of urgency among young people and inspire
them to become advocates for environmental protection. Media 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.