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SCMP Reporter

Nowadays, people enjoy a high standard of living thanks to rapid scientific and technological advances over the past few decades.

  It seems televisions, computers and mobile phones play an important role in our daily lives.

  However, have science and technology really benefited our planet? Some say they have brought about many problems and a lot of unhappiness among people.

   But there are advantages. Wherever you are, communication is no longer a problem today.

  And people can conveniently travel from one place to another.

  Moreover, the use of electrical appliances has become an essential part of our lives.

  In addition, people have easy access to information with the result that they are now more aware of what's going on around them.

  Computers and televisions are not only a source of entertainment, but also help people enhance their knowledge.

  Medical and scientific advances will help increase our lifespan by finding cures for many diseases.

  Nevertheless, science and technology have caused adverse effects on the Earth.

  Many industries discharge untreated chemical waste into the sea and vehicles emit smoke which is a cause of air pollution.

  Trains and aircraft disturb the peaceful environment with their noise. Moreover, people produce a huge amount of rubbish.

  The rubbish often contains plastic and other chemical materials which are non-biodegradable, thus adversely affecting the Earth.

  Technology has also helped produce weapons of mass-destruction. The world is a more violent place now, with bombs, guns and other weapons that can kill thousands of people.

  Some countries with advanced military equipment may decide to invade their neighbours.

  Law and order has also deteriorated. Criminals have more powerful weapons to fight the police. Piracy is another problem. The unauthorised reproduction of books and CDs violates copyright laws.

  Although science and technology have helped raise people's living standards, they have brought more harm than good.

  The Government should introduce stricter legislation to prevent the misuse of technology which may adversely affect society.

  The Government should also co-operate with schools to organise more programmes to educate students about the proper ways of using technology.

 Kwai-yin is a student at Hang Seng School of Commerce 



Humans benefit while Earth pays the price