Science, Technology and Green Issues

Part 6: You are going to read four short texts in which experts give their views on technology and environmental issues.

For questions 37–40, choose from the experts (A–D). The experts may be chosen more than once.

Which expert …

37. points out that green technologies may also have negative environmental consequences?

38. believes that changing people’s behaviour is essential in dealing with environmental problems?

39. criticises politicians for depending too much on future technological developments?

40. mentions that some environmentally friendly technologies are still too expensive for many people?

Science, Technology and Green Issues

A — Dr Melissa Grant, Environmental Scientist

Many governments appear convinced that advances in green technology will eventually solve the climate crisis. While innovation is undoubtedly important, I find this level of optimism rather unrealistic. Cleaner energy systems and carbon capture technologies may help reduce emissions, but they cannot compensate for societies that continue to consume natural resources at unsustainable rates. Unless individuals become willing to modify their lifestyles and reduce energy consumption, technological progress alone is unlikely to be sufficient.

B — Professor Alan Reeves, Renewable Energy Researcher

It is easy to focus exclusively on the negative aspects of emerging technologies, yet history repeatedly demonstrates humanity’s capacity for innovation. Renewable energy systems are already far more efficient and affordable than they were a decade ago. Although electric vehicles and solar panels remain financially inaccessible to some households, costs are expected to fall significantly over the coming years. In my view, technological innovation remains our most realistic hope for reducing environmental damage on a global scale.

C — Nina Patel, Sustainability Consultant

Public discussions about green technology often ignore the environmental consequences associated with manufacturing these products. Electric vehicles, for example, depend on materials whose extraction may damage ecosystems and contribute to pollution. This does not mean such technologies should be abandoned altogether, but rather that governments and industries must recognise the risks involved and invest in more sustainable production methods.

D — James Liu, Climate Policy Adviser

One of the greatest dangers surrounding environmental policy is the assumption that future scientific breakthroughs will somehow rescue us from the consequences of inaction. Politicians frequently promise ambitious technological solutions while avoiding the unpopular decisions necessary to reduce emissions immediately. Scientific progress is clearly essential, but it must be accompanied by stronger regulation and international cooperation.