Technology and innovations have made our lives easier for as long as we can remember. Without these advancements and steps toward modernization, we wouldn’t be enjoying the comfort and accessibility we do now, thanks to our gadgets, machinery, and other examples of technology.
In recent years, technology has broadened its focus to more than just developing innovations to benefit people. With the continuously rising concern about climate change, researchers, scientists, and other stakeholders in the tech industry gave more attention to producing sustainable and environment-friendly advancements.
Since the Philippines has dedicated itself to mitigating the effects of climate change and preserving its natural environment, it uses several examples of green technologies across its sectors. Their use allowed for new experiences among users as they contributed to making the world a better place for present and future generations.
Agriculture
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant rise in farming activity, especially in the metro. Yet before this spike, many Filipinos discovered the benefits of hydroponic farming for personal consumption or sale. Farmers can cut their costs significantly and grow various crops without soil through a hydroponics setup.
The hydroponics system has several methods users can choose to meet their preferences. But basically, it uses nutrient-rich water that passes through the crops’ roots, keeping them nourished without too much effort. The water passes through pipes and filters to continue the cycle, helping farmers preserve water compared to regular watering and applying synthetic fertilizers.
In the meantime, vertical farms using a hydroponic setup are also ideal in the metro because it helps farming enthusiasts grow food without worrying about space or keeping a close eye on their crops.
Another setup called aquaponics has a similar approach but uses an extra element, fish. Waste from the fish serves as the natural fertilizer for the crops.
Home appliances
Various reports on climate change and greenhouse gas emissions claim the energy sector as the most significant contributor. As a result, key players in the technology industry began shifting their products to include energy-saving properties and lessen their carbon footprint.
For instance, inverter air conditioners are present in many Filipino homes. It uses microprocessors to control the speed of its compressor motor to match the required output. Once the room is cool or warm, an inverter air conditioner lowers the motor’s speed to save energy and maintain the desired temperature.
Seeing its environmental (and financial) benefits, we began switching to other appliances that offer power-saving options. Even fixtures like energy-saving lightbulbs also became a frequent presence in modern homes.
While on the topic of energy and cost-cutting, it’s also relevant to note that some of us went the extra mile by shifting our energy source entirely. Although it’s more costly to transition to renewable energy sources like solar panels, the returns are worth the investment.
If placed and angled appropriately, solar panels convert solar energy to electricity, allowing users to harness a natural source instead of relying on artificially-produced electricity. It will also lessen their monthly electricity bill significantly.
Biodegradable and sustainable items
Pollution remains at the top of the list of global environmental concerns. With continuous demand for single-use products, like plastic, the pollution level is at a standstill or hasn’t seen a significant drop in recent years.
However, thanks to innovative minds, the technology sector has produced various items that are biodegradable and sustainable. For instance, some local shops in the Philippines created paper or similar materials that contain seeds. Instead of being thrown away into the environment, these can help new plants grow and do their part in environmental preservation.
Another example is a local brand that produces biodegradable plastic packaging from natural materials like cassava. These brands often undergo rigorous research to develop an efficient product that meets their environment-friendly goal of lessening pollution.
Most of these efforts become fruitful with international partnerships because it helps intensify the production and process of switching commercial plastic packaging with its biodegradable counterparts.
Food and consumption
Besides plastic packaging, local sustainable shops are also promoting edible utensils to replace plastic spoons, forks, and knives. Its earlier counterparts were wood or metal items in a set for portability. However, some argue that it poses a problem in using resources because it requires water when cleaning. Moreover, with repeated use, these items will also become disposable and counteract their purpose. Hence, the edible utensils.
Edible utensils incorporate local starch ingredients like cassava and beans. The starchiness of these edible materials allows for the shaping of the tool and various possibilities for the innovators to add flavors for an added experience.
Straws are also a popular product made sustainable because these small plastic utensils cause immense water pollution and jeopardize marine life.
Transportation and fuel
Due to the shift to renewable energy from various sectors in the Philippines and the world, car manufacturers also transitioned from depending solely on fossil fuels to finding cleaner counterparts.
In previous years, Filipinos saw a spike in electricity-powered cars and vehicles in the country. Yet even though there are charging outlets in gas stations and malls, the public has to embrace the change. Meanwhile, local fuel companies have cleaner options in the market than regular fossil fuels using ingredients derived from natural materials. Users only need to verify the compatibility between the newly-developed gases and vehicle units.
Green technology spans more industries in the Philippines because of the demand for modern yet eco-friendly solutions. We can see these innovations in our homes or on the streets. Because of intensified efforts against climate change, provinces and cities have taken the necessary steps to move the country forward.
Technology has indeed opened new opportunities for our benefit. Through the years, we’ve undoubtedly gained and progressed with its help, but we overlooked a crucial element in our security, the environment. Fortunately, it’s not too late for us to make some changes in our lifestyle and the technology we use.
It takes a collective effort from private individuals and industries to spark the change toward a sustainable future.