ETHICS AND VALUES (AECC-VI)
1. How might the actions of individuals contribute to the sustainable utilization of
resources for the advantage of forthcoming generations?
Individual actions play a crucial role in contributing to sustainable resource utilization for
the benefit of future generations. Here are some ways individuals can make a difference:
(i) Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Use less stuff, like water and energy, and try to reuse things instead of throwing them
away. Adopting the mantra of reduce, reuse, and recycle can significantly reduce waste
and conserve resources. By minimizing consumption, reusing items whenever possible,
and recycling materials, individuals can help extend the lifespan of resources.
(i) Save Energy
Simple actions such as turning off lights when not in use, unplugging electronics, using
energy-efficient appliances, and opting for renewable energy sources can lower energy
consumption and reduce the strain on natural resources.
(ii) Save Water
Conserving water by fixing leaks, using water-saving fixtures, taking shorter showers, and
being mindful of water usage in daily activities can help preserve this precious resource
for future generations.
(iii) Ecofriendly Transportation
Choosing sustainable transportation options like walking, biking, carpooling, or using
public transit can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and alleviate pressure on fossil fuel
resources.
(iv) Support Sustainable Products
Choose things made from sustainable materials and made in a way that doesn't hurt the
environment. Purchasing products that are made from sustainable materials, ethically
sourced, and produced using environmentally friendly practices encourages businesses
to adopt more sustainable methods and reduces the exploitation of natural resources.
(v) Education
Tell others why it's important to take care of the environment and encourage them to do
the same.
2. What is “net zero”?
"Net zero" refers to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the
atmosphere and the amount removed from it. Achieving net zero emissions means that the
total greenhouse gas emissions produced are equal to the total amount removed from the
atmosphere through various methods, such as carbon capture and storage or natural
processes like reforestation.
Achieving net zero emissions is considered essential for mitigating climate change and
avoiding the most severe impacts, such as extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and
biodiversity loss. The goal of achieving net zero emissions is to mitigate climate change by
stabilizing the level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, ultimately aiming to limit global
warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
We can do this by:
Reducing Emissions: Using cleaner energy sources, driving electric cars, and making
industries more efficient to produce fewer emissions.
Removing Carbon: Planting trees or using technology to capture and store carbon
dioxide emissions underground
` By achieving net zero emissions, we aim to stop adding more greenhouse gases to the
atmosphere than we can take away, helping to slow down climate change and protect the
planet for future generations.
3. How is it possible to achieve a harmonious equilibrium between industrial progress
and ethical considerations regarding the environment?
Achieving a harmonious equilibrium between industrial progress and ethical considerations
regarding the environment involves integrating environmental sustainability into all aspects of
industrial development. Here are some key strategies:
(i) Using Clean Technologies: Industries can use cleaner and more efficient technologies
that don't harm the environment as much.
(ii) Following Rules: Governments can make rules that industries have to follow to protect
the environment, like not polluting rivers or cutting down too many trees.
(iii) Being Responsible: Companies should take responsibility for their actions and try to
minimize their impact on nature. This could mean using less energy, producing less
waste, or cleaning up any mess they make.
(iv) Learning and Teaching: Everyone should learn about how their actions affect the
environment and teach others to be more mindful. The more we know, the better we
can protect our planet.
(v) Working Together: Industries, governments, and people should work together to find
solutions that benefit everyone and keep the environment healthy for future
generations.
[OR]
(i) Regulatory Framework: Implementing and enforcing environmental regulations ensures
that industries operate within ethical boundaries, limiting pollution and environmental
degradation.
(ii) Technological Innovation: Investing in green technologies and practices allows industries
to minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining progress and productivity.
(iii) Stakeholder Engagement: Involving communities, environmental groups, and other
stakeholders in decision-making processes fosters transparency and ensures that ethical
concerns are addressed.
(iv) Corporate Responsibility: Encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable practices through
incentives and penalties promotes ethical behavior and environmental stewardship.
(v) Education and Awareness: Promoting environmental literacy and raising awareness
about the importance of sustainability empowers individuals to advocate for ethical
practices and hold industries accountable.
4. What is “digital detox”?
A "digital detox" means taking a break from phones, computers, and social media for a
while. It's like giving your brain a vacation from screens and the internet to relax and do
other things you enjoy, like spending time with friends or going outside. It's a way to take
care of yourself and find a balance between technology and real life.
The benefits of Digital detox includes:
(i) Disconnecting from Screens: During a digital detox, you consciously put away electronic
devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets. This means no checking emails, social
media, or watching TV for a designated period.
(ii) Reconnecting with Real Life: Instead of staring at screens, you focus on activities that
don't involve technology. This might include spending quality time with loved ones,
engaging in hobbies like cooking or gardening, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
(iii) Reducing Stress and Overwhelm: Constant exposure to screens and digital information
can contribute to feelings of stress and overwhelm. A digital detox provides a much-
needed break from this information overload, allowing your mind to relax and recharge.
(iv) Improving Sleep Quality: The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt sleep patterns. By
avoiding screens before bedtime during a digital detox, you may experience improved
sleep quality and wake up feeling more refreshed.
5. Discuss several advantages and disadvantages of modern technology.
Advantages
(i) Improved Communication: Technology like phones and the internet helps us talk to each
other faster and from far away. People can connect with each other globally in real-time
through various platforms like social media, email, and video calls.
(ii) Efficiency and Convenience: Machines and computers make many tasks quicker and
simpler, like online shopping and banking.. From online banking to automated
manufacturing, technology has made daily tasks more convenient and less time-
consuming.
(iii) Access to Information: We can find information on almost any topic online, making it
easier to learn new things. Online resources, educational websites, and digital libraries
provide instant access to a wealth of knowledge from anywhere in the world.
Disadvantages
(i) Too Much Screen Time: Spending too much time on phones and social media can make
us feel anxious and lonely.
(ii) Privacy Issues: Our personal information online isn't always safe, and people can use it
without permission.
(iii) Not Everyone Has Tech: Some people can't afford or access technology, making it harder
for them to learn and work.
(iv) Losing Jobs to Machines: Machines and computers taking over some jobs means fewer
people have work, which can be tough for families.
