EVM 111

EFFECTS OF ADVANCES IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, MEDICINE, AND PUBLIC

HYGIENE ON THE ENVIRONMENT

Introduction
The advances in science, technology, medicine, and public hygiene have had profound positive
and negative effects on the environment. These advances have led to longer lifespans,
improved health, and a higher standard of living for many people around the world. However,
they have also come with a price. Some of the environmental impacts of these advances
include:
 Increased pollution; the production and use of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other
pollutants have increased dramatically in recent decades. These pollutants can have a
variety of harmful effects on the environment, including: Air pollution, which can cause
respiratory problems and other health problems. Water pollution, which can
contaminate drinking water and make it unsafe for swimming and other recreational
activities. Soil pollution, which can make land unusable for agriculture and other
purposes.
 Depletion of natural resources; the production of goods and services requires the use of
natural resources such as fossil fuels, metals, and minerals. These resources are finite,
and their use is contributing to their depletion.
 Habitat destruction; the construction of roads, dams, and other infrastructure has
destroyed or fragmented habitats for many plant and animal species. This has made it
more difficult for these species to survive and reproduce.
 Global warming; The burning of fossil fuels is releasing greenhouse gases into the
atmosphere, which is trapping heat and causing the Earth's temperature to rise causing
Rise in sea levels and extreme weather events

Science has made significant contributions to our understanding of the environment and how it
works. Through scientific research, we have been able to identify the causes of environmental
problems such as climate change, pollution, and deforestation. Scientists have also developed
technologies that help us monitor and measure environmental changes. For example, satellites
are used to track changes in the Earth's climate and weather patterns.

Technology has also played a significant role in shaping the environment. The development of
machinery and equipment has allowed us to extract natural resources from the earth more
efficiently. However, this has also led to increased pollution and environmental degradation.
For example, mining activities can lead to soil erosion and water pollution.
Medicine has had a positive impact on the environment by improving public health. Advances
in medical technology have led to better sanitation practices and disease prevention measures.
This has reduced the spread of diseases that can harm both humans and animals. However, the
use of pharmaceuticals can also have negative effects on the environment. When people
dispose of unused medications improperly, they can end up in waterways and harm aquatic life.

Public hygiene practices have also had a positive impact on the environment. Proper waste
management practices help reduce pollution and prevent the spread of disease. Recycling
programs help reduce waste and conserve natural resources. However, improper disposal of
waste can lead to environmental problems such as air pollution and soil contamination.

In conclusion, advances in science, technology, medicine, and public hygiene have had both
positive and negative effects on the environment. While these fields have contributed
significantly to our understanding of the environment and how it works, they have also led to
increased pollution and environmental degradation.
They have led to many benefits for humans and have also come with a price. It is important to
be aware of the environmental impacts of these advances so that we can take steps to mitigate
them.

References

1. The contrasting roles of science and technology in environmental challenges:

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10643389.2019.1565519
2. Science and Technology for Disease Control: Past, Present, and Future:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11740/
3. Environmental Health - Healthy People 2030:
https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/
environmental-health