Lesson 8

The Information Age Pre-Mechanical (3000 BC to 1450 AD)

History, Impact and Living in This period marks the beginning of communication.
Information Age People tried to use language to draw pictures
(petroglyps) to tell story, keep records and map their
terrain.

Information Age Advancements in language and media used were also

Refers to the time where information can be widely and easily disseminated and is readily
available through the use of technology such as computer.
This period is also known as “Computer Age, Digital Age and New Media Age”.
In addition, information age is characterized by rapid growth in communication and
information technology.
It can also be defined as information and societies that documents the beginning and growth
of electronic information from ancient times to Samuel Morse's invention of the telegraph in
the 1890s through the development of the telephone, radio, television and computers.
Consequently, the creation of computer and internet enables us to get all the information we
wanted in just a snap of our fingers and transform our perspective towards working at home.
Furthermore, internet permits us to continue our tasks or routine such as; studying,
shopping, paying bills and ordering food even during pandemic (like what we are
experiencing right now).
evident in this time, the people made use of rags,
papyrus and eventually paper.
In addition, number system was also developed during
this time that led to the invention of the first calculator
– the Abacus.
Mechanical (1450-1840)
This period showed the connection of the ancient technology to the
current technology that we have.
Due to the outburst of interest in language and computation, many new
technologies were developed during this period.

Historical Development of Information Technology One example is the Pascaline – a mechanical computer invented by
Blaise Pascal, a French mathematician, physicist and religious
philosopher known on his theory of probabilities.
Four Periods of Information:
Pascaline which was first known as arithmetic machine is capable of
1. Pre-Mechanical (3000 BC to 1450 AD) adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing numbers.

2. Mechanical (1450-1840)
3. Electro-mechanical (1840-1940)
4. Electronic/information (1940 –present)
Electro-mechanical (1840-1940)
This period signaled the beginning of telecommunications that give birth to several
revolutionary technologies such as the Morse code, telephone, radios and televisions.
These revolutionary technologies were regarded as the crucial foundation for the
development of modern information technology systems.
The significant technology that was developed during this time was Harvard Mark 1-
created by IBM in 1944.
Harvard Mark 1 was the first large-scale automatic digital computer and used by the
Manhattan Project to detonate an atomic bomb by stimulating the feasibility of an
implosion.
Electronic Numerical Integrator
Harvard Mark 1
Information Age and the Internet
Howard H. Aiken
Electronic/information (1940 –present)
• In this period, machines already used electronic switches in the form of vacuum tubes
where people can automatically open and close thousands of times faster than
electromechanical relays.
The Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC) was notable invention
during this era.
ENIAC was the first electronic general-purpose computer that used programming in
solving large classes of numerical problems.
Also, its first program was the feasibility of the thermonuclear weapon
J. Presper Eckert
and Computer (ENIAC)
In formation Age became well-known because of the emergence of electronic computers that
is marked by the transformation of the traditional industry into an information digitalization
based economy.
It was conceived that the beginning of the information age marked the onset of digital
revolution.
The internet which is identical to modern IT, was developed during the 1970s.
Internet was envisioned to connect computers together using the concept of decentralization
making it resistant to any single point of failure.
This is also the main reason why it cannot be totally destroyed in one event.
Thus, if there will be areas that will be disabled, information can be rerouted easily.
The primary software applications of the internet were e-mail and computer-file transfer.
Information Age and the Internet
When internet existed, communication became easier however; scientists find it difficult
to access information due to slow speed of file transfer.
The said difficulty was solved through the invention and introduction of World Wide Web
by Tim Berners-Lee in 1900s.
It was at this time that internet became an easily accessible network.
World Wide Web was developed mainly for commercial purpose.
Its introduction paved way to new services and created new products to sell.
Among the leading personalities who created products that carved the path for the
computers that we currently have is Steve Jobs who created the first effective personal
computer called the Apple 1.
It was stated that Apple 1was a huge advancement in computer sciences because it led the
creation of iPhone, iPod, iPad, iMac, and Apple TV.
Bill Gates is also a huge force in the Information Age.
He founded Microsoft, which creates almost everything that has to do with computers.
Microsoft develops programs like Microsoft Office, Windows, and many other influential
products
The most notable person on this period was Claude Shannon who is regarded as the
Father of the Information Age.
Shannon earned the said title because of his significant and enormous work that laid the
foundation for the digital world.
Different Personalities in Information
Age and Computers
Tim Berners-Lee (World Wide Web)
Steve Jobs (Apple 1)
Bill Gates (Microsoft)
Claude Shannon (Father of the Information Age)
Living in the Information Age
IT has become part of our everyday lives.
There have been tremendous changes on how we live, work, play and socialize.
Information technologies such as computers, networks, mobile and wireless devices,
satellite communications, robotics, video text, cable TV, electronic mail (e-mail),
electronic gadget and automated office equipment and other technological innovation
and entrepreneurship have been the key players in the changes that we experience.
Advantages of Information
Technology (IT)
Globalization - IT has made countries all over the world closer that led to a more efficient,
faster and easy sharing of information.
Communication - IT has made communication cheaper, quicker and more efficient. The use of
the internet opened virtual face to face communication from different parts of the world.
Cost effectiveness - IT has led to digitalization of business processes and increased
productivity that gave more profits, better pay and working conditions.
Creation of new jobs - IT opened opportunity for computer programmers, system analysts,
hardware, software developers and web designers
the Information Age has changed people, technology, science, economies, culture, and even the way people think.
The Internet is arguably the most prominent innovation of the Information Age.
The Internet changed the way people do everything.
It has made people lazier, but it also makes a large amount of the population smarter.
The Information Age has made industrial countries stronger.
With online companies being some of the most successful and economically stimulating businesses out there,
economies receive more from them and keep our world turning.
People are becoming more mature and more educated due to things like the computer and the Internet.
This period has reshaped governments, with new technology being created every day.
Governments can now have more advanced and effective militaries. Because of things like the Internet, new laws
had to be put in place to stop cyber-crimes, piracy, and identity theft.
Impacts of the Information Age (Good effect)
conclusion
1. Brought about many inventions and innovations
2. Communication services developed such as texting, email, In conclusion, the information Age also known as the Computer Age, Digital Age or
and social media New Media Age is a historic period in the 21st century.
3. People become more educated to learn different languages The idea it upholds is that access to and the control of information is the defining
4. Changes people’s way of living (emergence of online
characteristic of this current era in human civilization.
companies, creation of economically and stimulating
The driving force behind changes and new options given to us is an innovation called
businesses)
the INTERNET.
5. More mature and educated people in reshaping governments
Many possibilities are limitless and convenience is greatly improved.
with technologies
New forms of communication were introduced.
Impacts of the Information Age (Negative Effect) Educational opportunities were greatly enhanced because of the wealth of knowledge

now placed at the fingertips.

1. People believed that they can live in their entire life through the internet.
2. Huge criminal organizations rely on hacking into government systems and Nowadays, information could be shared or transferred quickly.

obtaining confidential information to continue their way of life. People are becoming more interested in sharing information about them.

3. It also impacts our work ethics by distracting us and causing us to lose Various aspects of our society are also being influenced by the Information Age

interest in the task we are doing. especially communication, economics, industry, health and the environment.
4. This time period has also created a shortage of jobs and making many jobs The rapid upgrade of information poses both positive and negative impacts to our
obsolete because machines are now being used to do the work humans once did society.

Therefore, we need to carefully check our motives before disseminating information

and we also need to verify information before believing them and using and sharing

them.

We should share information that could help improve our lives and others.
 Biodiversity and the

Lesson 9
Diversity of Genes
Healthy Society It refers to variation of genetic characteristics within species

Threats, Current Issues and

Conservation
Diversity of Species
It pertains to the number of different species found in a given biological organization

What is biodiversity? Diversity of Ecosystem

Comprises of various collections of countless organisms. Which made up the essential life
support for the survival of humans
Comes from the Greek word “bio” which means life and the Latin word “diversitas” meaning
variety of difference, thus, biodiversity means variety of life (Walter G. Rosen)
Some Definitions of Biodiversity
Biodiversity is the totality of diverse life forms found on biosphere from single celled
organisms such as bacteria and fungi, up to the multicellular organisms such as plants,
mammals and fishes at the different biological levels including gens, habitats and
It is defined as the variety of habitats communities and ecological processes
Benefits and Importance of Biodiversity
Consumptive value
pertains to the direct utilization or consumption of goods by humans:
Food/drinks, fuel, medicine, Better crop varieties, Industrial materials
Non-Consumptive value
refers to all the functions and services that biodiversity offers:

ecosystem Recreation, Education and Research, Traditional value, Ecological service (Balance of

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms on Earth and their interconnection with nature, Biological productivity, regulation of climate, Degradation of waste, Cleaning

each other. air and water, Cycling of nutrients, Detoxification of soil and sediments, Maintenance

Biodiversity pertains to the “variability among living organisms from all sources of soil fertility

including, inter alia, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic eco-system and the ecological
complexes of which the area part – this include diversity within species, between Climate change
species and of ecosystem” (Biological Convention in Brazil, 1992). Destruction and Loss of Habitat

Threats to Pollution

Three types of Biodiversity Invasive Species

Biodiversity Exploitation of plants and animals
Diversity within species (Diversity of Genes)
Growth of Human population
Diversity between species (Diversity of Species) Other Potential threats

Ecosystem (Diversity of Ecosystem)

Climate Change Growth of Human population
refers to the long term and irreversible change on the Earth’s climate which is
associated to human activities (directly or indirectly). pertains to the rapid increase of human population that puts pressure on the
Thus, the increase in temperature of the atmosphere has a major impact on the environment, threatening the survival of natural species and habitats.
environment such as: increased in sea levels, ocean acidification, extreme drought,
decline in crop productivity, and heavy rainfall across the globe.
Other Potential Threats
Destruction and Loss of Habitat this includes the epidemics and infectious diseases like malaria, dengue and flu that

pertains to the changes in the environment that led to the rendering of a specific affect wildlife as well as human health

habitat to be functionally value. Human activities that resulted to the destruction and
loss of habitat of species include: deforestation, mining and logging. Signs if the Environment is
Habitat loss and destruction can be caused also by natural phenomena such as Already Contaminated
earthquake, typhoon and volcanic eruptions
Disruption of reproductive cycle in birds that was the product of high concentrations
of pesticides
Pollution
Population declines and deaths of fish attributed to contamination from oil spills.
refers to all types of substances used by humans that can harm or poison the
Disorientation and deaths of marine mammals (whales and turtles) due to coastal
biosphere.
pollutant runoff.
All kinds of pollution-be it air, water or land appear to be a threat to all organisms
Contaminated air and water.
found on Earth

Current Issues on Biodiversity

Invasive Species
pertains to the introduction of an exotic or unnatural species to a new habitat. This Human activities posed danger and threat to biodiversity all over the world.

type of activity poses danger to the native species found on that specific habitat Thus, we need to take a look at the condition and status of biodiversity in our country.

because it can induce great competition for resources. What are the underlying issues that our country is currently facing?

Thus, if the exotic or unnatural species successfully thrive on the area, they are called From 450,000 hectares of Mangrove forests in 1918, we now only have 149,000 hectares.

“invasive” ones. However, if it did not successfully flourish on that area, the exotic or More than half (14,000 sq. km.) of our country’s wetlands which are of international

unnatural species will die importance are already threatened.

Today we have only six million hectares of forests from the original17 million hectares in 1935.

Exploitation of plants and animals

refers to direct and indirect harvesting of renewable resources such as plants and
animals that led to diminishing and destruction of the said resources
 Genetically Modified
Biodiversity Conservation Lesson 10 Organisms (GMOs)
Advantages, Environmental Hazard

Biodiversity conservation is defined as the protection and management of biodiversity

to acquire resources for sustainable development. It has three aims which include:
preserving the diversity of species; sustainable utilization of species and ecosystem; and
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
maintaining lifesupport system and necessary ecological process

Organisms whose genetic material/s have been manipulated, modified or altered in a

laboratory or test tube using the techniques of genetic engineering. GMOs include genes from
plants, animals, bacteria and virus that were combined or crossbred to produce new kind of
Ways on how effectively conserve the biodiversity
species that do not naturally exists in the environment

GMO is synonymous with the term “Genetic Engineering, Recombinant DNA, and Gene
1. In-situ Conservation Splicing”. Commonly, GMOs are being used in food and medicines which give rise to different
concerns about the danger they might cause to the environment as well as to human’s health
the conservation method that takes place within the species natural habitat.
In this way, the natural ecosystem is protected and maintained.
In-situ conservation of biodiversity offers great advantages such as: convenience and
cost effective; conserving large number of living organisms simultaneously; and GMOs are known because of the following reasons:
helping the organism to better evolve and adjust to different environmental
Genetically modified organisms are used for scientific research to create new species
conditions because species are in their natural habitat.
GMOs are also used to research human diseases
Places or areas where in-situ conservation is highly implemented were wildlife
GMOs are used to produce industrial products such as fibers for multiple uses.
sanctuaries, national parks and biosphere reserves
Creating improved crops.
Producing products intended for human therapeutic use; examples are pharmaceutical
2. Ex-situ Conservation products and tissue or organ for implantation.

the conservation method that uses breeding and maintenance of endangered species Enhancing the quality of food and its production like faster growing chickens and fish that

in artificial ecosystem such as botanical garden, gene banks and zoo. can digest food more efficiently.
Improving animal health
Advantages of employing ex-situ conservation are species were provided with longer
time of breeding activity; the captive bred species can be reintroduced in the wild; and
genetic techniques can be used for the preservation of endangered species
 Benefits and Importance of Biodiversity

1. Identify
In producing genetically modified corn, the first thing that scientists do is to identify
what trait they want a GM corn to have such as resistance to insects and drought. Then
they will look for an organism such as plant, animal or bacteria that has the trait they
desire

2. Copy
After finding the gene with the desired trait, scientist then copies the said gene. In GM
corn, scientist copied the Bt gene that contains insect-resistant trait.

3. Insert
Then, the scientist will make use of a device to insert the copied Bt gene into the corn
that they want to have the insect-resistance trait. Thus, the inserted Bt gene will make
the corn resistant to insects. However, it would not affect the existing traits of the corn

4. Grow
The final step is for the scientist to grow the new corn plant in the laboratory. This is
done to ensure that the corn has adopted the desired trait. Continuous observation
and series of test are being employed to the new breed of corn before transferring it to
greenhouses then eventually into larger field.
Production of GMOs
GMOs are produced using genetic engineering. Genetic engineering is a process of modifying
Advantages of GMOs
or altering the genetic makeup of an organism using recombinant DNA. It involves the Reduce the use of pesticides and other toxic chemicals

following process: Improves the nutritional value of food

1. Identifying the genetic information needed or gene that contain
the desired trait of an organism
2. Copying the information of the needed or desired trait
3. Inserting the copied, desired trait to another organism
4. Growing of the new organism
Desired characteristics of food are acquired faster and in a short period of time.
Sick people or people with medical conditions rely on GMO for medicines
Best solution to the problem of the world which is hunger because of its ability to produce food in short
period
Creation of species that is resistant to pesticides.
Helps in the process of remediation in cleaning up waste and pollution with the help of living organisms.
GMOs are used to treat genetic disorders and cancers

Disadvantages of GMOs
▪ Unacceptable to some groups of individuals to copy their genes or other species genes.
▪ Production of GMOs interferes in food chain.
▪ GM animals tend to suffer more health problems.
▪ GMOs can provide allergic reactions to both animals and humans.
▪ Production of GMOs can lead to genetic pollution.
▪ GM crops kill insects like bees that are helpful in boosting their production.
▪ GM crops slowly destroy our ecosystem as well as the species within it.
▪ GMOs disrupt the natural genetic information of an organism
▪ GM food is known to contaminate the environment causing deformed babies
▪ FDA has not approved consuming of GM animals.
Issues on GMOs
Though there are advantages GMOs can provide, there are still a lot of issues concerning
human’s health and safety as well as environmental sustainability. Below are some of the
questions posed to GMOs
1. Does manipulation or alteration of organism’s genes moral?
2. Is it ethical to produce an altered or artificial organism?
3. Is it ethical to produce an altered or artificial organism?
4. Are there adverse effects on the environment?
5. Who will benefit on the production of GMOs?
6. Is there a risk of using GMOs?
Environmental Hazards
The impacts of GMOs to our environment are:
Loss of insect biodiversity in agroecosystem
It creates secondary pests
Since GMOs can be produced quicker, its use in agriculture narrowed The
gene pool and caused a loss of biodiversity. In addition, agriculture is the
main reason of the change and degradation of environment.
Lesson 11
Gene Therapy
Types, Approaches, Methods of Gene
Therapy
One of the major concerns of science and technology is to improve the health care
system of the society. This is the main reason science and technology continuously
finds ways on how to cure or prevent diseases (inherited or acquired) and prolong
the range of human’s lives. Consequently, one way of curing and preventing
diseases to occur is to make use of the knowledge or concept of genetics known as
gene therapy.
Gene Therapy can be defined as:
a method of inserting genes into cells as a form of medicine to prevent or cure
genetic diseases.
a technique used for correcting defective genes that are responsible for the
development of the disease.
a method that uses genetic engineering to alter or modify genes in a cell to
cure or stop the disease
in 1972, Theodore Friedman and Richard Roblin proposed that people with genetic
disorders can be treated by replacing their defective genes with good genes? Also, in 1985,
Dr. W. French Anderson and Dr. Michael Blasse collaborated to prove that patients with
Adenosine Deaminase (ADA) deficiency can be corrected in tissue culture. However, the
first approved experiment on gene therapy took place on September 14, 1990 at the United
States, when Ashanti DeSilva with ADA-SCID was treated
 In Vivo Gene Therapy
Types of Gene Therapy
Directly delivers the gene into the cells of a particular tissue in the body.
Uses medium or carrier called vector
Somatic cell gene therapy Used by patients whose individual cells cannot be cultured in
vitro in sufficient number.
Somatic cells are also known as body cells. These are the cells that do not
Necessary when cultured cells cannot be effectively re-implanted or re-inserted in
produce reproductive cells such as eggs and sperms.
the patient’s body.
Somatic cell gene therapy refers to the insertion of therapeutic genes into
Examples: Therapy for cystic fibrosis
the somatic cells.
Its main aim is to cure the genetic disease found only in the patient and can’t
ExVivo Gene Therapy
be transferred or inherited by the succeeding generations.
Examples include: insertion of genes into blood cells, skin cells and bone Getting or collecting the genes from the patient, genetically modifies them in the laboratory,
marrow cells. and then reintroduce them to the patient.
Grow the cells in culture

Germ line gene therapy Used for patients whose genes can be cultured and grow in vitro.
Applied or used when cultured cells can be effectively re-implanted or re-inserted in the
Germ line cells are also known as reproductive cells (eggs and sperms cells).
patient’s body.
Germ line gene therapy pertains to the insertion of therapeutic genes into the
Examples: Therapy for Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
reproductive cells.
Technique therapy for Adenosine Deaminase (ADA)
This type of therapy enables the correction of the disease-causing gene to be
Therapy for Hemophilia
inherited by the succeeding generations
Apparently, there is no recorded attempt on using this type of gene therapy
because of technical, safety and ethical reasons..

Approaches in Gene Therapy

There are many approaches to gene therapy, which includes the insertion of a healthy
copy of a mutated gene, deactivating mutated gene that is malfunctioned or
introducing new gene into a desired tissue. There 2 possible ways of delivering the
genetic material: it can be “in vivo” or “ex vivo”
Methods of Gene Delivery
Disadvantages of Gene Therapy
Physical Methods
1. Gene gun – make use of high-pressured delivery system to shoot the tissue with gold
tungsten particles that are coated with the desired genetic information.
2. Microinjection – a method that uses a glass micropipette in inserting microscopic
substances into single living cell. This is commonly done under specialized optical microscope
setup called “micromanipulator”
Chemical Methods
Ethical Issues on Gene Therapy (Ethical Questions)
1. Using detergent mixtures – a technique that uses chemicals such as Calcium
phosphates and mixed with functional cDNA of a desired function.
2. Lipofection – a method used to inject genetic materials into patient’s cell through
liposomes.
Advantages of Gene Therapy
Allows possibilities to eliminate and prevent hereditary diseases like Hemophilia and sickle
cell anemia
Has the potential to treat heart disease, AIDS, and Cancer.
Gives hope and chance to people born with genetic disease to live
Can be used to eliminate diseases from the future generations
Cannot attain long lasting therapy because of the rapid division of cells. Thus, the benefit
from gene therapy is short termed.
The response of the immune system to the inserted or transferred gene stimulates
potential risk to gene therapy.
Vectors like virus, used in inserting the genes may cause toxicity leading to the
inflammatory reactions of the host.
Diseases or disorders caused multiple genes defects cannot be treated effectively using
gene therapy
How can “good” and “bad” uses of gene therapy be distinguished?
Who decides which traits are normal and which constitute a disability or disorder?
Will the high costs of gene therapy make it available only to the wealthy?
Could the widespread use of gene therapy make society less accepting of people who are
different?
Should people be allowed to use gene therapy to enhance basic human traits such as height,
intelligence, or athletic ability?
Generalization
In conclusion, Gene therapy is controversial because of its ability to spare future
generations in a family from having a particular genetic disorder, however, it might affect
the development of a fetus in unexpected ways or have long-term side effects that are not
yet known. This is because people who would be affected by gene therapy are not yet born;
they can’t choose whether to have the treatment. Although gene therapy poses great
possibilities in eliminating genetic disorders, its effect might also cause harm to society
Lesson 12
The Nano World
Nanotechnology is envisioned to increase the efficiency consumption, help in cleaning
the environment and solve major health problems such as cancer. Thus, nanotechnology is
Application of Nanotechnology, Issues
said to revolutionize the medicine industry. Like all other areas or field of science,
Concerning Nano-Technology
nanotechnology was already used in centuries before it was formally realized and defined.
Various scientists including Einstein contributed in the said field; however, it was only in
the year 1959 in a speech given by Richard Feynman, entitled: “There’s Plenty of Room at
the Button”, the essence of nanotechnology in manipulating and controlling objects on a

Nano Science and Nano Technology small scale was realized. As time progresses, the recognition of the importance of
nanotechnology in the different areas of the society is also growing

Nanoscience is a branch of science that deals with systems and controls of matter on
atomic, molecular, and super molecular scale or nanometer scale (a unit of a spatial
measurement that is 10-9 meter, or one billionth meter).
Special Types of Microscope
Nanoscience is diverse and multidisciplinary course because it integrates different areas
of industry and science such as engineering, material science, Physics, Biology and
Chemistry.
ELECTRON MICROSCOPE
Nanoscience defines particles as extremely small objects that behave as a whole unit in this type of microscope utilizes a particle beam of electrons to light up a specimen and

terms of transport and properties. develop a well-magnified image. Electron microscopes produce higher and better resolution
than older light microscope because they magnify objects up to a million times while
Nanotechnology involves different technologies that have the ability to control matter at conventional light microscope can magnify up to 1,500 times only. Scanning electron
extremely small scales to create new and improved products that can be used in various microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) are the two types of electron
ways. microscope
Nanotechnology is an area of research and innovation focused on building new materials
or devices on a scale of atom and molecules
ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPE (AFM)
it makes use of a mechanical probe that gathers information from the surface of a material
How small is Nano?
The Prefix nano is a Greek word meaning dwarf. It is commonly used in creating extremely SCANNING TUNNELING MICROSCOPE
small machines
this special type of microscope enables scientists to view and manipulate nanoscale particles,
atoms and small molecules.
 Applications of Nano-Technology

Initially, nanotechnology was already used in commercial products such as:

the use of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in sunscreen, cosmetics and food products;
Advantages of Nano-Technology
the use of silver nanoparticles in food packaging, clothes, disinfectants and households
Advances in disease treatments, such as cancer
appliance;
Better imaging and diagnostic equipment
the use of carbon nanotubes for stain-resistant textiles; and
Energy-efficient products such as fuel and solar cells
the use of cerium oxide as a fuel catalyst
Improvements in manufacturing that allow for durable, light-weight, efficient production

Since nanotechnology is said to be the world fastest growing technology of in the 21st century, tools

scientists and other organizations such as the Center for Bioethics of Canada, enumerated some of the Improved electronic devices, including transistors, LED and plasma displays and

possible applications of nanoscience and nanotechnology. These are quantum computers

Nanorobots can be used to rebuild the ozone layer, clean polluted areas and lesson
Energy Production, conservation and storage dependence on non-renewable energy sources
Enhancement of Agricultural Industry
Treatment and remediation of water
Screening and diagnosing diseases
Systems of Drug delivery
Processing and Storing food Disadvantages of Nano-Technology
Controlling air pollution
The potential dangers to humans and the environment
Construction
Loss of manufacturing and agricultural jobs
Monitoring health
Economic market crashes related to a potential lower value of oil due to more efficient
Detecting and controlling pests
energy sources and gold or diamonds, materials that can be reproduced with molecular
Information and communication technologies and semi-conductors
manipulation
Education and Public awareness
Accessibility of weapons of mass destruction
Nano-metrology
Improved atomic weaponry
The cost of research and products made from nanoparticles
 Lesson 13
Dangers of Nano-Technology CLIMATE CHANGE
CLIMATE CHANGE, CAUSES OF
Scientists speculate that too much exposure to the different products of nanotechnology can CLIMATE CHANGE, ENERGY CRISIS
cause short and long-term threats to the human body and environment because of recent
laboratory findings:
Exposure to fullerenes killed water fleas
Fullerenes caused extensive brain damage and changed the physiological make-up of fish
Earthworms absorbed fullerenes that easily traveled through soil WHAT IS CLIMATE CHANGE?
Nanoparticles built-up in the bodies of lab animals subjected to long-term exposure
refers to the broad range of global phenomena created predominantly by burning fossil
Qdots caused cadmium poisoning in humans
fuels which add heat-trapping gases to the Earth’s Atmosphere”. In simpler term, climate
Nanoparticles can travel through a mother’s placenta
change pertains to the major change in global patterns such as the amount of rainfall,
Nanoparticles can assist in the formation of free radicals
increase in temperature, snow and wind that could last for decades which largely
associated with the increase of carbon dioxide due to the massive use of fossil fuels. In

Ethical Concerns in Nano-Technology addition, climate change is used interchangeably with global warming

Nanotechnology is about manipulating, altering or controlling objects in extremely small

GREEN HOUSE GASES
scales. One of the ethical dilemmas raised is the potential misuse of manipulating the
genetic make-up of humans through engineering of specific traits. Such activity would Contributory factors in climate change
create division on the society, in which those who can afford the procedure can have all
the desirable traits they wanted and become super intelligent and strong human beings.
The question is; how about for the people who can’t afford the procedure? What will Important Role of Green House Gases in the Planet
happen to them?
Planets with small amount of greenhouse gases are either too cold or have huge
Another ethical concern posed to nanotechnology is its interaction with the human body
temperature swings from day to night, while planets with ample greenhouse gases are too
and the environment and its regulation. Experts and government must support
hot.
themselves with adequate knowledge on how nanotechnology works in order to clearly
Earth is the most suitable planet for living organisms, because it contains the right amount
define or lay out appropriate policies and regulation for the implementation and usage of
of greenhouse gases (well for a certain point in time).
nanotechnology for the benefit of the society.
GREEN HOUSE GASES INCORPORATED IN THE
ATMOSPHERE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE

The effects of anthropogenic (human-caused) climate change are already felt around the
world. Various evidences that signify that Earth is increasingly warming includes: more
Water Vapor (H2O)
frequent and severe droughts to snowstorms; extreme winter weather in temperate regions
the most abundant greenhouse gas that acts as a feedback to the climate. It increases as the
and melting of glaciers as a result of warming Arctic weather front.
atmosphere of the Earth heats up, but it helps in cloud formations and precipitation which
Furthermore, warming ocean temperatures are increasing the frequency of coral reef
makes it the most important feedback mechanisms to the greenhouse effect
bleaching; warmer, drier weather means that forests in some regions are no longer
recovering from wildfires and wildlife habitats around the world are becoming less
Carbon Dioxide
hospitable to animals and plants.
the most abundant greenhouse gas that acts as a feedback to the climate. It increases as the
atmosphere of the Earth heats up, but it helps in cloud formations and precipitation which
HOW IS CLIMATE CHANGE AFFECTING THE PHILIPPINES
makes it the most important feedback mechanisms to the greenhouse effect

Methane
a hydrocarbon gas which is a primary component of natural gas. It can be produced both
trough natural sources and human activities. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas and an
absorber of radiation
Philippines is in the Western Pacific Ocean surrounded by naturally warm waters are
expected to get even warmer as average temperature of the sea-surface continue to rise.
The rise in sea surface temperature will release additional heat in the ocean and air that can
lead to stronger and more frequent storms.
Philippines lacks natural barriers (majority of coral reefs are already deforested)

Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Regional wind patterns or currents also increase the risk of tropical storms. (it rise about
twice the global average for about 15-20 feet)
also known as the laughing gas, is a powerful greenhouse gas produced by soil cultivation
practices, especially the use of commercial and organic fertilizers, fossil fuel combustion,
The effects of climate change and global warming here in our country cannot be denied. We used to have a
nitric acid production and biomass burning
clear delineation between the dry and wet weather, or summer and rainy months. January to June has always
been known as the dry months while the rest were wet months. Summer in the Philippines means hot, sunny
CAUSES OF CLIMATE CHANGE days and temperatures are quite high. Wet months on the other hand are characterized by typhoons, windy

Deforestation days, and suspended classes. During wet months, sunny days are unusual, and in fact unexpected.
Road construction Nowadays, however, the wet and dry days occur anytime in the year
Land transformation (agriculture to
Decomposition of wastes and landfills
subdivision)
Excessive use of chlorofluorocarbons
Burning and Combustion of fossil fuels
Burning of biomass
such as coal and oil for heat and
Excessive use of energy such as electricity
transportation
Coal mining
Agriculture
 WAYS BY WHICH CLIMATE CHANGE AFFECTS
OUR COUNTRY
1. More intense El Niño
the El Niño phenomenon occurs when the surface of the ocean waters in the southern Pacific
becomes abnormally warm. The energy created by this is so great that it can create an
imbalance in the weather in the different parts of the world. In Southeast Asia, it can lead to
abnormally dry conditions. El Niño can also make weather events like storms highly
unpredictable. Weather will have extreme highs and lows, making it “increasingly difficult to
predict weather patterns for purposes of planning and normal business operations” says a
WWF-Philippine study;
5. Tropical Cyclones to Intensify
the creation of tropical cyclones are already being recorded in areas where the phenomenon
had never been observed. On November 8, 2013, Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), said to be
the strongest as recorded in the history which devastated the cities in Visayas
6. Rainfall, River Flow and Flooding
to Intensify
Monsoon rainfall in the Philippines will reach new highs and lows. Some parts of the country
will make it more difficult for agriculture and aquaculture sectors which are highly
dependent on weather. Philippine cities are already experiencing unprecedented amounts of
rainfall. In Tacloban City, rainfall increased by 25% from 1998 to 2011. More rainfall will lead
to more flooding and can trigger landslides in upland communities

2.Sea Surface Temperatures to Rise

REASONS ON HOW CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS
by the end of the century, sea surface temperatures are expected to rise by 1 to 4 degrees
Celsius. This can lead to more powerful storms because storms get their strength from heat
TO THE PHILIPPINE’S ABILITY TO FEED PEOPLE
rising from the sea. In the Philippines, 4- and 5-degrees Celsius spikes above the normal sea
Climate change manipulates production systems of our country which compromise the food
surface temperature have been recorded. Warmer seas kill coral reefs and can thus lead to a
security and nutrition for millions of people in the Philippines. In addition, Bermejo (2017)
decline in fish catch, putting food security in danger;
emphasized what Jose Manual Francisco (Representative of UN’s Food and Agriculture
Organization in the Philippines) said that because of climate change it is expected that crop
3. Ocean Acidification yields will decrease 25% and fish species will also decline for about 40% in tropical countries
the shift in the Ph levels of our oceans can lead to widespread coral reef death. Because of the like Philippines
imbalance, shrimps are not able to develop skins, oysters cannot develop shells. Fish larvae
Climate change also affects farmers by ruining their crops because of too much heat and too
may not be able to develop bones. This further endangers food security and livelihood
much rain. Prolonged heat or drought leads to proliferation of pests that destroys their

4. Sea Levels to Rise by 4 to 6 Meters crops, if not; too much rain destroys their crops through drowning.

current data show an increase in sea surface heights. Scientists say this is due to the melting
Climate change impacts the food security of our country as shown by The Global Food
of ice sheets in the southern and northern portions of the globe like Antarctica and
Security Index (GSFI) where Philippines’ rank dropped from 74th to 79th among 113 countries
Greenland. Sea level rise by 4 to 6 meters can submerge low-lying communities like Tacloban
based on the data released by the Economist Intelligence unit (EIU). The global index
City which stands only 3 meters;
measures the core issues of food security which are: affordability, availability and quality.
However, in 2017 they included our country’s natural resources and resiliency in coping with
the challenges brought by climate change
 Reducing waste by:
Climate change increased malnutrition in the Philippines based on the latest National recycling and buying recycled products;
Nutrition Survey of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) of the Department of choose products that contains less packaging;
Science and Technology (DOST). The Philippines malnutrition rate or stunting among reuse, repair or donate;
children under 5 years old has increased 33.4% from just 30.3% in 2013 carry cloth bags when you do your shopping; and
use refillable water bottle or travel mug.

WHAT CAN WE DO TO MITIGATE CLIMATE CHANGE

ENERGY CRISIS
Conserving hot water by:
Energy crisis refers to any great bottleneck or price rise in the supply of energy resources to
installing low flow shower heads;
an economy. This happen when the supply of energy is less than the demands of the society;
installing blanket on the hot water heater;
thus, affecting human’s daily activities as well as economic growth and development. In
insulate hot water pipes; wash laundry in cold water; and
addition, energy crisis can be represented by: oil crisis; petroleum crisis; energy shortage;
fix leaky faucets.
electricity shortage or electricity crisis.
Conserving heat and coolants by:
installing programmable thermostat; Energy crisis is one of the major challenges humans all over the world are facing. This is
checking and repairing weather stripping on doors and windows; because environment’s natural resources are already diminishing but the demands kept on
adjust your clothing instead of thermostat; increasing. Despite the efforts given by environmental advocates as well as the
keep AC filters clean; and government, energy crisis got worst because information about it is not properly-
plant more trees. communicated or disseminated through and across the society. Public or societies proper
Conserving fuels used in vehicles by: information of the cause of energy crises will help lessen or avoid activities that will worsen
doing several errands in a single trip; the said crisis
walking or riding bicycle;
carpool or ride public transportation CAUSES OF ENERGY CRISIS
Conserving electricity by:
Imbalance of Supply and Demand
unplugging chargers of any kind of gadget and appliance when not in use; Major Accidents and Natural Disasters
Population Growth
developing the habit of always turning lights and appliance off; Wars and Terrorists Attacks
Poor and Damaged Infrastructure
installing timers or motion sensors on outdoor lights; and Other Factors – Tax hikes, military coup,
Unexplored Renewable Energy
changing to compact fluorescent bulbs. political events, severe hot summers or cold
Options
winters can cause sudden increase in demand
Delay of Commissioning of Power
of energy and can choke supply. A strike by
plants
unions in oil-producing firms can cause an
Wastage of Energy
Lesson 14
Moreover, schools play an important role in the formation of children’s positive attitudes
Environmental
towards the environment. Currently there are schools that integrated environmental
Awareness awareness in their curriculum and they called it environmental education.
Environmental education is a process that allows individuals to explore environmental
issues, engage in problem solving and take action to improve the environment as a result,
individuals develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues and show the skills to
make informed and responsible decisions.
Environmental awareness
means being mindful with our environment and making choices that benefits our planet. The components of environmental education are:
All of us can practice environment awareness by: conserving water and energy; using Awareness and sensitivity to the environment and environmental challenges;
organic and non-toxic materials; and recycling Knowledge and understanding of the environment;

Environmental awareness is important because it fosters a sense of connection to the Attitudes of concern for the environmental and motivation to improve or maintain

natural world; promotes sustainable development; and encourages conservation of environmental quality;

irreplaceable natural resources and vulnerable plant and animal species. In addition, Skills to identify and help resolve environmental challenges; and

environmental awareness essentially serves as an educational device for making people Participation in activities that lead to the resolution of environmental problems.

understand the economic, aesthetic and biological importance of preserving and sustaining
There is no single path of solving problems. Rather, environmental education teaches us how to weigh
Earth’s natural resources and reducing or eliminating the harmful impacts of alternations
various options and use problem-solving and decision making skills to arrive at the correct options
caused by humans

Promotion of Environmental Awareness Top 10 Benefits of Environmental Education

Environmentalism is an ideology that evokes the necessity and responsibility of humans to 1. Imagination and enthusiasm are heightened
respect, protect and preserve the natural world from the abusive or wrong use of humans. 2. Learning transcends the classroom.

There is a need to keep our environment healthy for the younger generation. They should 3. Critical and creative thinking are enhanced.

not inherit the different environmental problems that we currently have and in order to 4. Develop tolerance and understanding.

keep their future bright, spreading awareness is imperative. While efforts are being exerted 5. State and national learning standards are met for multiple subjects.

at the national and international level to protect our environment, we should do our part as 6. Biophobia and nature deficit disorder decline.

individual citizens. Each one becomes aware of the worth of good quality living. 7. Healthy lifestyles are encouraged.
8. Communities are strengthened.
Schools are said to be the major venues for developing environmental awareness in
9. Responsible action is taken to better the environment.
students. Environmental issues often arise with a lack of understanding of nature and the
10. Students and teachers are empowered
ecological environment and the inappropriate use of natural resources.
 Lesson 15
Given all the benefits of environmental education, teachers can teach environmental awareness to the
younger generation by: Alternative
introducing the 3R’s: Reducing waste; reusing resources and recycling materials;
Energy Sources
organizing tree planting activities and explaining to the students the essence of having more
trees in the environment;
encouraging all student to develop the habit of unplugging and switching off all gadgets and
appliance when not in use; and For hundreds of years, fossil fuel has been the chief energy source of countries all over the world. We
Teaching by example. The teacher must walk the talk. If he or said that it not good to litter, have been so dependent on fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas) and other natural resources due to its
therefore if he/she sees a piece of litter, he/she must pick it up. convenience and relatively low price. However, the increase in energy demand leads to energy crisis.

Since fossil fuel is classified as polluting and non-renewable resource, we need to find alternative
Beliefs and Convictions on Environmental Awareness
energy resources before it totally runs out. We need to find or identify energy resources that are

Different religion organizations perform a vital role in enlightening people to acquire values, cleaner, more economical, eco-friendly and beneficial to the whole world.

traditions, beliefs, conduct and to become stewards of the environment. Each of the religions
professed by the Filipinos also includes concern for the environment. Further, Pope Francis What Is Alternative Energy?
further mentioned that true human advancement should have moral character. Thus, change
in human behavior is needed as a result more and more people are switching to behavior that When we talked about alternative energy, we are referring to all non-fossil-fuel-based

benefits the environment by choosing green.
Green marketing is a device used for protecting the environment for future generations. In
this regard, Environmental Science Education (ESD) is being promoted as a way to assist
people in cultivating attitudes, developing skills and enhancing knowledge to make wise
decisions for our benefit as well as for the society
Ramon, 2015 in Havenia, 2019 stated that, environmental education is built on ecological
belief and deference to all forms of organisms on earth. Environmental stewardship is
environmental education in action. Moreover, she mentioned in her study that
environmental stewardship can be seen in terms of academic service learning which includes
among others:
energy sources and processes, of which renewable energies are only a part. It represents the
clean energy source (does not pollute nor harm the environment) that can be acquired from
a natural and renewable source of energy
Alternative energy is any energy source that can be used as a substitute or replacement to
fossil fuel. The use of alternative energy resource is intended to address concerns about
fossil fuels, such as its high carbon dioxide emissions, an important factor in climate
change
Furthermore, renewable energy sources are not exactly the same as alternative energy
sources. Although both alternative and renewable energy work to cut down on carbon
emissions, there is a clear difference between the two. Alternative energy is not infinite in
supply unlike renewable energy which as the name suggests is always available in the

a. Help in forging linkages with the outside community for nature preservation environment.

activities such as tree planting;

b. Educate people on proper waste segregations;
c. Reduce waste, reusing and recycling materials; and
d. Decrease energy cost in school campuses.
Key Differences between Alternative Energy and 3. Wave Energy
Renewable Energy an alternative energy source that is more reliable and advantageous than tidal energy
source because this can be placed in the ocean in different locations and situations.
Since water is the main substance used in wave energy, it does not generate or emit
waste products.
Alternative Energy
cannot be replenished naturally
4. Biofuels
emits lower cast emissions and offers lower fuel prices
an alternative energy resource that make use of animal and plant life to produce energy.
Examples are: natural gas and fuel cells
In essence, they are fuels that can be obtained from some form of organic matter. They
are renewable in cases where plants are used, as they can be regrown.
Renewable Energy
naturally occurs in the environment
5. Natural Gas
replenishes naturally without the interference of human intervention
the demand for this energy source has been universal because of its application.
Examples are: biomass resources, solar energy, wind energy, geothermal and
Commonly, natural gas is used in cars and other vehicles to reduce the emission of
hydro resources
carbon. However, unlike other alternative energy sources, this energy source still emits
greenhouse gases though less than the amount emitted by fossil fuel; still it can
Sources of Alternative Energy contribute to the increase of temperature of the Earth.

6. Geothermal Power
1. Nuclear PoweR is type of energy source is acquired through extracting energy from the ground up. This
is one of the most abundant forms of alternative energy. It is beneficial in terms of
power source has massive potential while doing little to disrupt the land. However, the
emissions and efficiency. In addition, it also helps the economy to boost through
upfront cost of creating geothermal power plant has led to slower adoption than may
creating jobs in plant creation and operation.
have been expected.

2. Hydroelectric Energy 7. Wind Energy

known as one of the earliest means of generating energy, though their uses begin to
decline with the use of fossil fuels. Using hydroelectric energy is beneficial to us and to
the environment. Aside from being classified as renewable energy source; it does not
produce harmful elements that can pollute our environment; and the dams used to
generate hydroelectric power are helpful in controlling floods and irrigation techniques
since wind is permanently available, wind energy becomes increasingly popular in
recent years. In the United States, roughly 20 million houses per year are installing
wind energy and most states have wind energy set-up.
Wind energy like other alternative energy sources, do not generate waste products and
is renewable. However, this type of energy source is accompanied with challenges.
Turbines used to transform wind into useful energy restrict view and pose danger to
some forms of wildlife like bats and birds.
 8. Biomass Energy
an alternative energy resource that comes in a number of forms. Burning wood has
been used for thousands of years to produce heat, however, more recent advancements
have also seen waste such that in landfills and alcohol products used for similar
purpose.
Heat generated on burning wood is equivalent to that of a central heating system.
Furthermore, the costs involved tend to be lower and the amount of carbon emission by
this kind of fuel falls below the amount emitted by fossil fuels.
9. Tidal Energy
uses the power of water to create energy much like with the hydroelectric methods. In
most cases, its common application is in turbines.
Although tidal energy is fairly new, its potential is enormous. The most common form
of tidal energy production is the use of Tidal Stream Generators. These generators
make use of the kinetic energy of the ocean to power turbines, without producing the
waste like of fossil fuels
9. Tidal Energy
uses the power of water to create energy much like with the hydroelectric methods. In
most cases, its common application is in turbines.
Although tidal energy is fairly new, its potential is enormous. The most common form
of tidal energy production is the use of Tidal Stream Generators. These generators
make use of the kinetic energy of the ocean to power turbines, without producing the
waste like of fossil fuels
10. Hydrogen Gas
a completely clean burning fuel. When generated, hydrogen gas cells emit only water
vapor and warm air. Despite being clean, concerns with how hydrogen gas is formed
were raised. Since hydrogen gas is derived from the use of natural gas and fossil fuels,
its benefits outweigh by its harmful emissions.
Renewable Sources of Energy
Biomass
a renewable but not clean energy resource. Although it is significantly cleaner than
most fossil fuels such as coal and oil, it still produces sulphur dioxide during electricity
production that creates air pollution that causes harm to human’s health.
Hydro energy
commonly known as “hydro power”, is a very clean and powerful method of producing
electricity from a trapped wall of water. However, this can pose danger to wildlife and living
organisms in the rivers because of the need to flood the upstream land and draining of the
downstream land during its construction.
Geothermal energy
depending on location, geothermal energy can be a reliable renewable energy source. It is
commonly used to provide a source of heating or hot water for households using “ground
source heat pumps”, and also can be used as the energy source for power stations in
appropriate areas
Solar energy
a renewable energy resource that largely depends on weather. The most known technology
that stores energy from the sun is the solar panel where the efficiency and effectiveness lies
on the proper placement, location, and surrounding environment. The greater the solar
energy supply, the more effective the cells will be, however, the more heat a solar panel
receives, the more unreliable it can be because some of the energy collected into the panel
transforms into heat instead of electricity.
Tidal energy
can be used to generate electricity from the large energy force behind the tides. The main
disadvantage of tidal energy is the effect on the surrounding environment, affecting sea
life, and shore access.
 The San Carlos Energy Inc. (SaCaSol) successfully connected the first 22 MW of its solar
Wave energy
plant in Negros in the Southern Philippines and another 30 MW under construction.
is similar to tidal energy, but instead using the force behind the waves to produce
SaCaSol plant stated that, they are expected to provide approximately 31, 610, 473
electricity. The cost to sea life is usually less of an issue, as the construction tends to float on
kilowatthour (kWh) of electricity annually to the Visayas Grid, which is currently suffering
the water, and not in the sea. This is a relatively new technology, and in many cases, is still
from brownouts and low voltage problems.
in the research phase.
Then there are the solar panels being installed on the roof of the country’s biggest malls.The

Wind energy Philippines may have been slow in adopting renewable energy, but it has been catching up.

can be a very reliable renewable energy source if the wind turbines are placed in the right In fact, there is a goal to make renewable energy account for 50% of the total energy mix by

location. The main disadvantages of this form of energy are: sight and noise pollution, and the year 2030, when demand for energy is forecast to exceed 30,000 MW.

that most designs of wind turbines can be harmful to birds.
Wood energy
ties in with biomass, as it is still renewable, but must be burnt during electricity
production, which makes it harmful for our environment.
The question is, is it catching up fast enough? With the Philippine Department of Energy
approving a total of 616 renewable energy projects last year, we can look forward to a cleaner
energy infrastructure. Whether these will be enough to fulfill the 50% by 2030 objective is
not certain, but at the very least, we know that progress is being made.

Alternative and Renewable Energy Resources in the

Philippines

In the pursuit of the Philippine government to improve the status of renewable energy
resources in our country, it enacted laws to strengthen the implementation of renewable
energy resources. These laws include: Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (RA
9136); the Biofuel Act of 2006 (RA 9367); the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (RA 9513); and
the Climate Change Act of 2009 (RA 9729).

Philippines has an abundant supply of alternative, renewable energy sources such as wind
and the sun. We have sufficient resources that can be harnessed to generate stable power
needed to electrify homes and fuel businesses. While we still have a long way to go, we are
encouraged by the fact that the renewable energy sector has seen tremendous growth in the
previous years.

In November 2014, The Burgos Wind Farm operated a 150-megawatt new power plant.
Proclaimed as one of the biggest wind farms in Southeast Asia, it is projected to not just
provide 370 gigawatt-hours of electricity, which would power approximately two million
households but could also displace an estimated 200,000 tons of carbon emissions annually