Using Science to Solve Environmental Problems

Using Science to Solve Environmental Problems

Science does more than present facts and knowledge; it involves a process of asking questions, noting various observations and development of experiments that investigate and enables one to learn about specific topics.  For instance, there can be a problem in the environment that causes birds to die in a particular area.  The first step would be a scientific assessment where information is gathered through observations and experiments through data collected to try and explain the cause of the mysterious deaths.  The second step is environmental risk assessment to determine the potential harm to humans or animals and the management options. For instance, if a deadly fungus caused the cause of the deaths, evaluation is done to determine if the removal of the fungus can cause other problems.The third step is public engagement where people are presented with the issues, potential solutions and the risks involved. The fourth step is political action where the governing bodies are prompted to take action after they learn of the problem. Finally, long-term environmental management is implemented where all the factors described above are combined to prevent the problem from re-occurring or to prevent further damage.  One of the risks involved in such scientific action is the long-term effects of the solutions applied to the curb the problem.  For instance, if the answer is to use chemicals to spray the fungus, there is an excellent possibility of pollution to the environment, run-off to the water bodies which would cause deaths to the fishes and also deaths to the animals of the forest.

It is crucial to consider the natural environment while solving environmental problems.  For instance, using chemicals to eradicate a particular species that is bothersome to the humans may directly affect the ecosystem of another, from which it derives its existence, which would, in turn, affect another. On the social aspect, it is essential to consider how the solution to a particular problem would directly impact society.  For example, the perceived problem might be a source of income for some people and hence removing it would affect their livelihood, interfere with their cultural practices and also their economic status.

 
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