Lesson 5: Science, Technology, and Social Challenges

Science and technology both cause and solve environmental issues. Industrial activities and energy use have led to climate change (rising temperatures, intense typhoons). Technology contributes: car emissions, industrial waste, and deforestation are tech-driven. On the other hand, science provides solutions: climate models predict weather, guiding disaster prep. Green technologies are emerging: solar panels, wind turbines, and electric jeepneys reduce carbon footprints. In the Philippines, typhoon-safe shelter designs and reforestation projects use science to adapt to environmental challenges. Sustainability is key: students learn how tech (like wastewater treatment) protects nature, and how policies (like clean air regulations) manage the impact of technology on the environment.

As technology advances, we face new ethical questions. In science: manipulating genes (GMOs, designer babies) raises moral and safety concerns. In technology: issues like data privacy (personal data collected by apps), AI bias, and intellectual property are major debates. For example, face recognition tech can improve security but also risks surveillance overreach. Filipino society grapples with these: the Data Privacy Act (Philippines) regulates personal information online. Encourage students to think about questions like "Should there be limits on AI development?" or "How do we balance tech convenience with privacy rights?" This section stresses that responsible citizenship means being aware of the moral dimensions of science and tech in society.