TGED08: Science, Technology, and Society

Prof. Crisanta A. Ocampo | Term 1 - Midterms

W2: INTRO TO SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY A shift happened from agrarian to industrial societies, inventions,
such as Steam engine, Spinning Jenny, Telegraph, and Railroads
Science is a systematic process of exploring, understanding, and were made. Urbanization, factory systems, and the rise of
explaining the natural world through observation, capitalism started in the industrial revolution.
experimentation, and evidence-based reasoning.
Modern Era (20th - 21st Century)
Technology refers to the applications of scientific knowledge for
practical purposes. It includes tools, machines, systems,
Electricity, telephone, airplane, antibiotics,
processes, and techniques developed to make tasks easier, 20th Century
computers, nuclear energy
faster, and more efficient.
Internet, smartphones, AI, biotechnology,
21st Century
Society is a group of people who live together in organized renewable energy
communities, sharing common cultures, traditions, institutions,
and systems.
HISTORICAL ANTECEDENTS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
HISTORICAL ANTECEDENTS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (PHILIPPINE PERSPECTIVE)
(WORLD PERSPECTIVE)
Precolonial Period
Prehistoric Era Indigenous technologies such as Farming, Fishing, Weaving, Boat
In the Stone Age, early humans developed tools, such as stone Building, and Metallurgy took place. Babaylans, or priest-healers,
and bone, fire, and basic shelter. Around 10,000 BCE, the practiced herbal medicine. Knowledge was also passed orally or
Neolithic Revolution transitioned from nomadic life to through rituals and traditions.
agriculture.
Spanish Colonial Period (1565 - 1898)
Inventions of plows and irrigation systems, as well as Introduction of Western education and formal institutions
domestication of animals and development of pottery and happened. The establishment of Real Sociedad Económica de los
weaving happened during the neolithic revolution. Amigos del País (1780) happened, where it promoted agriculture
and industry. The Jesuits and other missionaries have
Ancient Civilizations documented flora, fauna, and native practices. Traces of early
In Mesopotamia, the cuneiform or the first writing system was development of medicine, botany, and engineering was also
developed, along with wheel, and early mathematics. Egypt found.
developed engineering through pyramids, together with medicine
and a calendar system. In China, Papermaking, gunpowder, American Colonial Period (1898 - 1946)
compass, and printing were developed. India gave the concept of Systematic development of science and public education burst
zero, metallurgy, and the Sushruta, or the early surgery. Greece forth. Establishment of institutions, such as University of the
and Rome gave birth to philosophical foundations of science Philippines and Bureau of Science were built. There was also a
through Aristotle and Archimedes, along with aqueducts, roads, promotion of research in agriculture, health, and industry.
and military technology.
Post-Independence Era
Medieval Period (500 - 1500 CE) The creation of the National Science Development Board (1958)
The Islamic Golden Age gave us Preservation and advancement happened, and it was evolved to DOST in 1987. Investments in
of Greek knowledge, as well as developments in astronomy, agriculture, disaster preparedness, and weather forecasting also
medicine, chemistry, and mathematics. In Europe, limited took place, and support for technology parks and innovation hubs
progress was made due to feudalism and religious dominance, were observed.
but monasteries preserved classical knowledge.

Renaissance (14th - 17th Century)

There was a rebirth of science and learning in Europe. Scientific
method was introduced by Francis Bacon, and major discoveries
by Galileo, Copernicus, and Newton happened. Knowledge
dissemination was also enabled due to the invention of Printing
Press by Johannes Gutenberg.

Industrial Revolution (18th - 19th Century)

1
Contemporary Era Del Mundo invented the bamboo
Participation in global scientific research was observed, such as incubator in 1941, in a bid to help
research in space technology. Local innovations in disaster families in rural communities without
resilience, agriculture, and healthcare also emerge, along with electricity. According to the Philippine
the growing interest in AI, renewable energy, and STEM Center for Investigative Journalism, the
education. physician’s makeshift incubator is
composed of two native laundry baskets
W4: FILIPINO SCIENTIST FOR SUSTAINABILITY made of bamboo.

Filipino scientists had made significant contributions to nation Angel C. Alcala (1929 - 2023)
building through their research and innovations in various fields.
Our nation enjoyed different perks and comfort because of their He is known for his work on marine
hard work as notable Filipino scientists. conservation, artificial coral reefs, and
establishment of marine protected areas in the
They were famous not because of wealth, looks, or charisma, but Philippines. He used materials like concrete
because they helped the country to grow and develop, and served structures, metal frames, and other artificial
as inspiration to other scientists in the Philippines. substrates that mimic the natural structure and
complexity of coral reefs, providing surfaces for
Maria Y. Orosa (1892 - 1945) coral larvae to attach and grow.

Maria Orosa was a Filipina food Ramon Barba (1939 - 2021)

technologist, pharmaceutical chemist,
humanitarian, and a war heroine. She He developed a technique of spraying
experimented with foods native to the Potassium nitrate (KNO3) to induce flowering
Philippines during World War II, where in mango trees. This discovery significantly
she helped alleviate the problem of boosted mango production and helped the
hunger and nutrition that time. Philippines become a major mango
exporter.
Enabled families without access to
PALAYOK OVEN Enrique Ostrea Jr. (1941)
electricity to bake.

DARAK Made with Rice Bran Flour. Known for inventing the meconium drug
COOKIES
testing, a type of drug test that involves
analyzing a newborn baby's first stool for
A protein-rich highly nutritious powdered
SOYALAC evidence of drug exposure during pregnancy,
soybean drink.
especially if there is suspicion of maternal drug
BANANA It became a favorite condiment and use during pregnancy.
KETCHUP cooking ingredient in the archipelago.
Meconium is the baby's first poop.
Gregorio Zara (1902 - 1978)
Rafael Guerrero III (1944)

Zara was a Filipino scientist known as the inventor

Recognized for his Tilapia Sex Reversal
of the videophone, the first two-way electronic
Technology, which significantly increased
video communicator, in 1955. Unfortunately,
aquaculture productivity.
Zara’s videophone did not reach the commercial
market.
Sex reversal involves the treatment
administration of male steroid to recently
Julian Banzon (1908 - 1988)
hatched fry so that the undifferentiated gonadal
tissue of generic female develops testicular tissue.
Banzon pioneered the research on
alternative fuels, contributing to the
development of biofuels in the Philippines,
which is Coco-Biodiesel, which can be used
in any diesel engine with little or no
modification to the engine or fuel system.
Fe Del Mundo (1911 - 2011)

2
Characteristics of Scientists and Inventors
CURIOSITY A strong desire to learn, explore, and COMMUNICATION Clearly sharing findings and ideas with
SKILLS others.
understand how things work.

CREATIVITY Ability to think outside the box and develop

new ideas or solutions. W5: THE TRAGEDY OF THE COMMONS
Philosophical ideas that have practical implications for
PERSERVERANCE Never giving up despite challenges or education, ethics, politics, and personal development are the
repeated failures. Human Flourishing, the concept of Good Life, and The Public
Good.
CRITICAL Ability to analyze, evaluate, and solve
THINKING problems logically and objectively.
To flourish as an individual, everyone needs to have access to the
OPEN-MINDEDNESS public good, live a good life while contributing to the public good,
Willingness to accept new ideas and
different perspectives. and a flourishing society.

ATTENTION TO Carefully observing and accurately Human Flourishing

DETAIL recording findings or processes. Human flourishing is the full development of a person’s potential,
including well-being, purpose, virtue,
ETHICS AND Commitment to honest and responsible and meaningful relationships. It goes
INTEGRITY research.
beyond happiness or pleasure, focusing
COLLABORATION on living and doing well as a human
Working effectively with others to achieve
shared goals. being. Rooted in Aristotle’s concept of
“Eudaimonia” or the good life,
ADAPTABILITY Ability to adjust to new conditions or flourishing is achieved through reason,
unexpected results. virtue, and living according to one’s
nature. Today, it also covers emotional,
physical, psychological, and social well-being, and requires
access to education, healthcare, freedom, relationships, and
opportunities for growth.
The Concept of Good Life

It is a philosophical idea that means living a truly meaningful,

fulfilling, and ethical life. It highlights that technology should be
seen as a tool to serve human purposes, guided by a virtue-based
approach to ensure it fosters happiness and contributes to a
more fulfilling existence, rather than becoming a source of harm
or distraction.

Science and technology support human flourishing by providing

tools that enhance health, convenience, and access to
information. They enable discoveries that improve well-being, but
must be seen as tools, not ends in themselves. Guided by ethics
and virtue, technology should serve humanity, fostering
happiness while avoiding harm such as misinformation or threats
to mental health.

The good life is understood in various ways: Hedonism sees it in

pleasure and happiness; Stoicism in inner peace and self-control;
Aristotelian ethics in virtuous living with reason and community
duty; and modern views in freedom, achievement, relationships,
or contribution to society. Overall, it involves material well-being,
moral character, social responsibility, and personal purpose.

The Public Good

The public good refers to things that benefit all members of

society, not just individuals or private groups. It can be enjoyed by
everyone without one person’s use reducing another’s. Public
3
goods are essential for human flourishing, as no one thrives nature—for example, continuing to use air-conditioning despite its
alone, and they help build a stable, fair society while promoting high energy consumption and contribution to greenhouse gas
the good life for as many people as possible. emissions.

Tragedy of the Commons There are two philosophical thoughts of Good Life that affect our
environment; Materialism and Hedonism.
Coined by ecologist Garrett Hardin in 1968, the “Tragedy of the
Commons” describes how individuals, acting in their own self- Materialism
interest, can deplete or destroy shared resources, ultimately
harming the entire group—including themselves. It occurs when Materialism values tangible assets and financial success as key
common resources are overused or mismanaged, often driven by components of a good life. In this view, material wealth or
individual or corporate gain, resulting in collective harm. possessions are considered good.

The tragedy of the commons is a metaphor for resources held in Hedonism

common, freely used by all but not regulated. It occurs when
individuals or groups, acting in self-interest, overuse or harm Hedonism prioritizes immediate sensory pleasures and the
these shared resources, leading to collective loss. minimization of discomfort. In this view, all pleasure is
considered good—summed up by the phrase “Eat, drink, and be
merry.”

The Bystander Effect

The bystander effect occurs during a public emergency when

many people witness it, but nobody takes action to help the
person in distress. Each bystander assumes that someone else in
the crowd will take responsibility and step up, so they themselves
don’t have to. It also applies to environmental issues: people
continue damaging the commons while expecting others to step
in and repair the harm done.

a situation where individuals, acting in their

own self-interest, deplete or spoil a shared Sustainability
resource even though it is in everyone’s
best interest to conserve it. Garrett Hardin
explained this through examples like A good life without the tragedy of the commons can be achieved
TRAGEDY grazing land, fisheries, or water, which are through sustainable living, which ensures that resources are
overused because each person seeks preserved and shared fairly for future generations. Sustainability
maximum benefit without regard for means meeting the needs of the present without compromising
sustainability. It is a paradox where the those of the future, using resources at a rate lower than or equal
pursuit of personal gain leads to collective
to the rate at which they can be replenished.
loss.

refers to resources that are held in W6: NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY

common and used by all. These include
shared resources like land, air, and water, Analyze current and emerging technologies critical to a good life
COMMONS which are available to everyone for well- and the progress of society, geared towards the attainment of
being. All who have access to the commons
collectively hold responsibility for their use sustainable development.
and care.
Nanoscience

Why do people take part in the Tragedy of the Commons?

the study of extremely small materials and structures, typically
ranging between 1 and 100 nanometers in size. A nanometer
Everyone desires the “good life” because it represents comfort,
(nm) is equal to 10-9m.
happiness, and success, often associated with material
possessions, wealth, and financial stability. However, people are
Nanotechnology
often unwilling to sacrifice comfort for the sake of caring for
4
Nanotechnology is the study and application of materials and Nanorods (Quantum Dots)
tools at the nanoscale, typically between 1 and 100 nanometers.
It involves manipulating matter at the atomic or sub-atomic level Nanorods are tiny solid structures, typically
to construct and engineer functional systems. This field is used to 1–100 nm in size, with shapes like
develop new products and improve existing ones in medicine, cylinders or rectangles, and can be made
electronics, energy, the environment, and many other areas, from metals or semiconductors such as
unlocking new capabilities that enhance technologies across carbon, gold, or zinc oxide. In cancer
nearly every aspect of life. treatment, gold nanorods are injected to
attach specifically to cancer cells, and when
A Nanometer is roughly the width of three to four atoms. exposed to laser light, they absorb it and convert it into heat,
effectively killing the cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
History of Nanotechnology
Nanobots
The concept of nanotechnology was first
introduced in 1959 by physicist Dr. Richard P. Nanorobots, or nanobots, are machines with
Feynman in his famous lecture “There’s Plenty of components at or near the nanometer scale,
Room at the Bottom” at Caltech, which inspired currently in the research and development
the field. phase, and capable of using environmental
resources as energy. They hold potential in
In 1974, Professor Norio Taniguchi of Tokyo medicine by delivering drugs directly to
University of Science coined the term targeted areas like tumors or diseased cells,
“nanotechnology.” Major breakthroughs followed: and assisting in minimally invasive surgeries
through precise tasks such as tissue repair or clot removal.
In 1981, Gerd Binnig and Heinrich Rohrer invented
the scanning tunneling Manufacturing of Nanomaterials
microscope, enabling
scientists to see and manipulate
Nanomaterials can be manufactured through two approaches:
individual atoms. In 1985, Harold Kroto,
the Bottom Up and Top-Down Approaches.
Richard Smalley, and Robert Curl
Bottom Up
discovered “buckyballs” (fullerenes), a
Nanomaterials are constructed from molecular components of
new nanoscale form of carbon. Later, in
their own. They chemically assemble themselves by recognizing
1991, Sumio Iijima discovered carbon
the molecules of their own breed.
nanotubes, remarkable for their exceptional strength and
Top Down
electrical properties, further advancing nanotechnology research.
Nanomaterials are created by larger entities without bouncing off
their atomic reactions. It is practiced less as compared to the
bottom up approach.
Nanomaterials
Issues in Nanotechnology

There are specific kinds of nanomaterials that are made to help Health and Safety Issues
advance society. They are the Carbon Nanotube, Nanorods, and
Nanobots. Nanoparticles can enter the body through the skin, lungs, and
digestive system, posing health risks. Prolonged exposure to
Carbon Nanotubes nanoparticle pollution can cause serious disorders such as heart
and lung diseases, pulmonary inflammation, and may even lead
Carbon nanotubes are hollow cylindrical nanostructures made of to premature death (Pui et al., 2014; Bouyahya et al., 2022).
graphene sheets with an
extremely high length-to- Social and Political Issues
diameter ratio. As part of
the fullerene family, they are Countries that control nanotechnology gain a strategic
valued for their strength and advantage, with military applications expected to be realized
lightness, making them first. Research focuses on improving medical and casualty care
useful in sports equipment, for soldiers and developing lightweight, strong, multifunctional
aerospace components, and materials for protective clothing that also provide enhanced
bullet-proof vests. They also play a role in cancer treatment, as connectivity.
their ability to penetrate cells allows ligands to target cancer
cells specifically and deliver chemotherapy drugs without W8: BIOTECHNOLOGY AND GENE THERAPY
harming healthy cells.

5
Biotechnology
marrow stem cells are
collected from your body and
Biotechnology is the use of living systems and organisms to exposed to a vector, often a
develop useful products, or any technological applications that virus, that carries the desired
use biological systems, to make or modify products or processes genetic material. Once the
to improve the quality of human life. vector introduces the new
genes into the cells, the
into the blood or into a
modified cells are injected
One of the ways that biotechnology helped improve lives is selected organ.
back into your body through a
through genetic engineering, also called as genetic modification, vein or directly into tissue.
is the direct manipulation of an organism’s genome. Your cells then take up the
vector along with the
Another byproduct of biotechnology is Gene Therapy that has the corrected genes, allowing the
potential to improve the quality of life. new genetic information to
function and help treat the
disease.
Gene Therapy

Gene Therapy is a technique that involves the insertion of genes Gene-related Diseases
into an individual’s cells and tissues to treat diseases, particularly
hereditary conditions. In this process, a defective or deleterious If a disease is caused by a defective or non-functioning gene, it
mutant allele is replaced or supplemented with a functional one can be treated through gene therapy. However, if the disease
to correct the underlying genetic problem. results from other factors such as infection, gene therapy is not
the appropriate solution. An exception is when the infection
Although this technology is still in its early stages, it has shown occurs due to a faulty gene that weakens the immune system—in
promising results in certain cases. Overall, gene therapy aims to such cases, gene therapy may be effective. Clinical trials have
correct defective genes responsible for the development of shown that gene therapy can help treat several gene-related
diseases. diseases and disorders, including severe combined
immunodeficiency (SCID), hemophilia and other blood disorders,
leukemia, inherited neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s
disease and epilepsy, cancer, and inherited heart diseases such
as arrhythmia.

Availability of Gene Therapy

STEPS IN GENE THERAPY
Gene therapy is an experimental treatment that involves
A Vector delivers the therapeutic gene into a patient’s target
introducing genetic material, such as DNA or RNA, into a
cell.
person’s cells to combat disease. Being an experimental
The target cells become infected with the viral vector. procedure means it has undergone laboratory testing and
received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
The vector’s genetic material is inserted into the target cell. (FDA) to be tested in human subjects. Currently, gene therapy is
being studied in clinical trials for various types of cancer and
Functional proteins are created from the therapeutic gene other diseases, but it is not yet available outside of these
causing the cell to return to a normal state. research studies.

Delivery of Desired Genes History of Clinical Trials of Gene Therapy

Genes can be delivered in the target cell through Cell-based On September 14, 1990, in the U.S. National
delivery and Direct delivery. Institutes of Health, Dr. W. French Anderson
and his colleagues Dr. R. Michael Blaese, Dr. C.
CELL-BASED DELIVERY DIRECT DELIVERY Bouzaid, and Dr. Kenneth Culver performed the
first approved gene therapy procedure on four-
In a laboratory, blood or bone Viral vector is infused directly year-old Ashanthi De Silva. She was born with a
rare genetic disorder called Severe Combined
6
Immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as “bubble boy disease,”
popularized by the 1976 movie The Boy in the Plastic Bubble.
Children with SCID are unable to develop a functioning immune
system, making them extremely vulnerable to infections. In
Ashanthi’s gene therapy, doctors removed white blood cells from
her body, allowed them to grow in the laboratory, inserted the
missing gene into the cells, and then infused the genetically
modified cells back into her bloodstream.

Jesse Gelsinger was one of the first

patients to undergo gene therapy in
a clinical trial in 1999. He suffered
from
ornithine

transcarbamylase deficiency, an X-linked

genetic liver disorder that prevents the
body from properly metabolizing
ammonia, a toxic byproduct of protein
breakdown. As part of the trial, Jesse
was injected with an adenoviral vector
carrying a corrected gene to test the
safety of the procedure. Unfortunately, he died four days later, on
September 17, 1999, at the age of 18, after experiencing a
severe immune reaction to the viral vector, which led to multiple
organ failure and brain death. His death underscored the
significant risks and ethical challenges involved in early gene
therapy research.

Pros and Cons of Gene Therapy

Gene therapy offers several significant advantages. It has the

potential to treat or even cure genetic disorders that were once
considered incurable by introducing functional genes to replace
or supplement defective ones. This approach can also be
designed to target specific cells or tissues, allowing for more
precise and effective treatment while minimizing effects on
healthy cells. Furthermore, successful gene therapy can provide
long-term or even permanent solutions to certain diseases,
reducing the need for ongoing medication or repeated medical
interventions.

It also has several drawbacks. One concern is the risk of

unwanted immune reactions, as the body may recognize the
introduced viruses as foreign and attack them, potentially
causing inflammation or organ failure. Another issue is the
7
possibility of targeting the wrong cells, since viral vectors can
Regenerate Organism
sometimes affect healthy cells. In addition, gene therapy is still
experimental and extremely costly, with uncertain results. For
example, a single injection of Hemgenix® for hemophilia B costs History of GMOs
about $3.5 million, while newly approved sickle cell therapies
like Casgevy and Lyfgenia range from $2.2 to $3.1 million per For thousands of years, humans have modified organisms
treatment. through selective breeding, developing crops like corn and
animals such as cattle and dogs with desired traits over many
Gene Therapy and Population in the Philippines generations. In recent decades, however, modern biotechnology
has enabled scientists to directly alter the DNA of
microorganisms, plants, and animals, allowing for more precise
and controlled genetic modifications.

The first genetically modified organism (GMO)

was created in 1973 by scientists Herbert Boyer
and Stanley Cohen. They successfully
engineered a bacterium that was resistant to
the antibiotic kanamycin, marking a major
breakthrough in biotechnology and paving the
way for modern genetic engineering.

In 1978, Genentech became the first company to synthesize

human insulin using genetic
engineering. They later
developed human growth
hormone (HGH), which helped
children with dwarfism grow to
normal size. Genentech’s
product, Humulin, was an
intermediate-acting insulin that
worked more slowly and lasted
longer than regular insulin. This breakthrough was achieved by
genetically modifying Escherichia coli bacteria to produce human
insulin, marking a major milestone in biotechnology and
medicine.

In 1982, Monsanto introduced recombinant bovine somatotropin

(rBST), a genetically engineered hormone designed to increase
milk production in dairy cows. The company was also among the
first to successfully genetically modify a plant cell in 1983,
Genetically Modified Organisms
marking a significant advancement in agricultural biotechnology.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) are a plant, animal,

In 1992, Calgene produced the Flavr Savr tomato, the first
microorganism, or other organism whose genetic makeup has
genetically modified crop approved for commercial production by
been modified using recombinant DNA methods.
the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It was genetically engineered
to delay softening, allowing the tomato to remain firm and fresh
STEPS IN RECOMBINANT DNA TECHNOLOGY for a longer period.

Identify Desired Trait Other GMOs in History

Isolate Gene

Insert Gene

Grow Modified Cells

8
Bt corn was developed in the mid- technology is viewed by many as a potential solution to global
1990s by inserting a gene from the food shortages and hunger.
bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)
into corn plants. This gene allows the Despite their benefits, genetically modified organisms also come
plant to produce a protein toxic to with several disadvantages and ethical concerns. Genetically
specific insect pests, reducing the engineered animals may suffer from health problems; for
need for chemical insecticides and instance, transgenic pigs modified with a human growth
improving crop yield. hormone gene to promote faster growth were found to be
arthritic, partially blind, and infertile. Another issue is the risk of
Genetically modified mosquitoes were allergic reactions, as genetic modification can create new
designed to reduce the transmission proteins or introduce known allergens that may trigger allergies
of diseases such as malaria and in humans.
dengue. These mosquitoes are
engineered either to produce sterile There are also social and ethical concerns. Some groups oppose
offspring or to carry genes that make the copying and patenting of genes, arguing it restricts farmers’
them resistant to parasites. The goal rights. For example, Monsanto, a company that produces
is to lower the spread of vector-borne genetically modified crops, patents its GMO seeds, requiring
diseases. Initial trials began in the early 2010s, with continued farmers to purchase new seeds each year instead of reusing
development and field testing today. seeds from previous harvests. This practice has led to
widespread criticism and tension between the company and
Approved for commercialization in 2015, Arctic Apples were farmers who feel financially burdened.
gene-edited to reduce the production of the enzyme that causes
browning when the fruit is cut. This modification gives the apples
a longer shelf life and a more appealing appearance. Bt corn, engineered to produce its own insect-repelling protein
derived from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), has also sparked debate.
Golden Rice was developed to combat vitamin A deficiency in While it reduces the need for chemical insecticides, some people
developing countries by enriching the rice with beta-carotene, a worry that the Bt protein could harm humans or beneficial
precursor of vitamin A. insects. Additionally, there is concern that pests may eventually
Scientists achieved this by develop resistance to the Bt toxin. Critics argue that altering
inserting genes from nature in this way could have unintended consequences and
daffodils and bacteria. emphasize the need for more research to fully understand the
Research began in the long-term effects of GMOs.
1990s, with prototypes
appearing in the early Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
2000s. However, on April
17, 2024, the Court of Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can pose risks by
Appeals in the Philippines potentially contaminating local populations of organisms, which
issued a cease-and-desist order on the commercial propagation is why strict regulations are necessary for their safe handling,
of Golden Rice and Bt Eggplant. Environmental groups argued especially during commercialization. To address these concerns,
that these GMOs could contaminate native rice varieties, harm the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety was adopted in 2000 and
ecosystems, and lead to pest resistance. took effect in 2003. Its main goal is to regulate the
transboundary movement of genetically modified organisms
(also known as living modified organisms, or LMOs) to protect
biodiversity and human health.

The protocol follows a precautionary approach, allowing

Pros and Cons of GMOs countries to restrict GMO imports if there is insufficient scientific
evidence to prove their safety. As of 2025, it has been ratified by
Genetically modified organisms offer several advantages in 173 parties. The Philippines signed the protocol on May 24,
agriculture and food production. Pest-resistant GMOs help reduce 2000, and ratified it on October 5, 2006.
the use of pesticides and other toxic chemicals, making farming
more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Through genetic Key provisions of the Cartagena Protocol include the Advance
modification, desired traits in food—such as size, flavor, and shelf Informed Agreement (AIA), which requires exporting countries to
life—can be achieved more quickly than through traditional notify and obtain consent from importing countries before
breeding methods. GMOs can also improve the nutritional value shipping GMOs. It also mandates labeling and documentation of
of crops, providing essential vitamins and minerals to address GMO shipments, risk assessment and management through
dietary deficiencies. Additionally, many people rely on genetically scientific evaluation before approval, and the promotion of public
modified products for the production of medicines. Overall, gene awareness and participation in decision-making related to GMOs.

9
W9: BIODIVERSITY LOSS AND THE SCIENCE OF PANDEMICS AND
by maintaining a balance between
EPIDEMICS predators and prey in ecosystems/
CONTROL Increase in pests such as rats and locusts
will be avoided if there are various species
Biodiversity of prey like snakes and frogs.

Biodiversity, especially forests, plays a vital

Biodiversity means the “variety of life on Earth”. It refers to role in carbon sequestration, helping
the various life forms and the different habitats or ecosystems CLIMATE
mitigate climate change by absorbing and
they live in. REGULATION
storing carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere.
Types of Biodiversity
Biodiversity Loss
Biological diversity includes the diversity within species,
between species, and of ecosystems. Biodiversity can be decreased by habitat destruction, climate
change, and pollution.
Variety of species within an area or habitat. Predators play an important role in controlling
It ensures that we have a variety of species the populations of disease-carrying animals.
SPECIES
that will do their niche in the environment, When these predators disappear, the number of
DIVERSITY
even if other species filling that role LOSS OF such animals increases, which allows diseases
become dead or extinct. NATURAL to spread more easily. This rise in disease-
BARRIERS carrying animals leads to greater chances of
Variety in genes within species. It ensures a zoonotic transmission—diseases being passed
healthy population with diverse genetic from animals to humans—because of the
GENETIC
material. It allows species to cope with increased contact between humans and wildlife.
DIVERSITY
environmental challenges and increase
their chances of long-term survival.
Habitat destruction forces animals to move
closer to human settlements, while humans
Variety of ecosystems in an area. Ensures
continue to explore and exploit wildlife habitats
that a variety of species that live in INCREASED for personal gain. This growing overlap between
different habitats survive and thrive. A HUMAN-
ECOLOGICAL WILDLIFE
human and animal environments significantly
world with different habitats houses more
DIVERSITY CONTACT increases the chances of zoonotic diseases, such
species of life (terrestrial, aquatic,
as COVID-19 and Ebola. As a result, pathogens
microscopic), than a world that only has a
are able to find new hosts more easily,
single habitat.
heightening the risk of disease outbreaks

Ecological Services of Biodiversity The illegal trade of wildlife not only contributes
to biodiversity loss but also exposes humans to
dangerous animal-borne pathogens. Handling,
Biodiversity provides habitats and shelter transporting, and consuming wild animals allow
for a wide range of species, supporting ILLEGAL viruses to cross species barriers. For example, it
HABITAT biodiversity itself and maintaining WILDLIFE is believed that HIV originated when humans
TRADE came into contact with the blood of SIV-infected
PROVISION ecological balance. Some of the raw
materials for our housing also come from apes while handling bushmeat. Such practices
biodiversity. demonstrate how illegal wildlife trade can
directly lead to the emergence of new infectious
diseases
Biodiversity, including microorganisms and
SOIL FERTILITY
decomposers, helps break down organic Climate change and global warming are
AND NUTRIENT
matter, releasing nutrients back into the interconnected drivers of disease outbreaks.
CYCLING
soil and promoting healthy soil fertility. Rising temperatures expand the habitats of
CLIMATE disease vectors like mosquitoes, enabling them
CHANGE
to survive and breed in new areas. Warmer
AND
Bees and other insects help pollinate GLOBAL weather often brings more rainfall, which in turn
flowering plants that produce fruits and WARNING increases mosquito populations and the spread
POLLINATION seeds. Without pollinators, the production of vector-borne diseases. Thus, climate change
AND FRUIT of fruits will be compromised. Food supply not only affects ecosystems but also intensifies
PRODUCTION for humans and other organisms will be the risks of epidemics and pandemics.
affected.

W10: CLIMATE CHANGE, ENERGY CRISIS, AND ENVIRONMENTAL

NATURAL PEST Biodiversity supports natural pest control AWARENESS

10
Technological progress and increasing societal demand are If we keep on mining the earth in such a damaging way, we
accelerating the depletion of natural resources. This continuous might find new reserves that will push that date back at the cost
extraction of resources is significantly damaging the of our environment.
environment, particularly through the destruction of forests. This
deforestation is especially detrimental as trees play a crucial role Unless gas can be produced from domestic sources, the
in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO 2) Philippines will need to rely exclusively on imported LNG
from the atmosphere. (liquefied natural gas) come 2025.

One must understand the connections between:

The energy crisis refers to the growing gap
between energy supply and demand caused
ENERGY CRISIS by over-reliance on non-renewable energy
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS sources such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Causes: Over-reliance on non-renewable
ENERGY CRISIS
energy sources (oil, coal, natural gas) and
extreme
Technological advancements can affect our environment
energy demand

Technology in our society relies on natural resources, which are Effects: Energy shortages, rising energy
being depleted because of our increasing demand and costs, geopolitical conflicts.
technological advancement.
Long-term alteration of temperature and
Humans extracting natural resources from the environment typical weather patterns.
result in the destruction of our environment, especially the
Causes: Greenhouse gas emissions from
forests that caters to trees that absorb CO2 in the atmosphere. CLIMATE CHANGE human activities (burning fossil fuels,
deforestation).
MANILA, Dec 28, 2021 (Reuters) - The Philippines has lifted a
four- Effects: Global warming, sea-level rise,
year-old ban on open-pit mining for copper, gold, silver and extreme weather events, loss of biodiversity.
complex ores, an official said on Tuesday, marking the second
Understanding and being mindful of
landmark policy move this year as the government tries to
environmental issues and sustainability.
revitalize the industry.
ENVIRONMENTAL Role of Individuals: Reducing waste,
But environmental activists expressed dismay over the policy AWARENESS conserving water, recycling.
reversal, with the Alyansa Tigil Mina (Alliance to End Mining)
group describing it as "a short-sighted and misplaced Role of Communities: Promoting green
development priority of the government". practices, supporting sustainable initiatives.

Energy Crisis
The world is still dependent on non-renewable energy resources  Situation in the Philippines:
o Coal made up 61.92% of electricity generation
The world continues to rely on coal, oil, and natural gas for in 2023, showing heavy dependence on fossil
energy, despite several movements to shift in using renewable fuels.
energy sources due to cost issues. o The Malampaya gas field, the country’s main
natural gas source, is expected to be depleted
The future of our global economy is more likely to consume more
by 2024–2025, forcing reliance on imported
energy and resources due to technological advancements and
LNG.
rising demands from developing countries.
 Global Outlook:
o Oil may be depleted by 2052, gas by 2060,
and coal by 2090 if current rates continue.
Our non-renewable energy resources will soon be depleted
o These shortages lead to higher costs, power
If we continue at our current rate, it is outages, and geopolitical tensions.
estimated that:  Core Problem: Despite technological advancements,
❖Oil will end by 2052 renewable energy (like solar and wind) remains
underused due to high costs, leading to worsening
❖Gas will end by 2060
energy shortages and environmental damage.
❖Coal will last till 2090
Environmental Awareness

11
  Importance: It empowers individuals and communities
to fight climate change through conscious actions.
 Individual Actions:
o Conserve energy — turn off unused devices,
use energy-efficient appliances, and shift to
renewable energy.
o Reduce, Reuse, Recycle — minimize waste,
reuse materials, and avoid single-use plastics.
o Plant trees — especially indigenous species,
which store carbon, cool the air, and resist
disease.
 Community Efforts: Support eco-friendly programs, join
awareness campaigns like Earth Hour, and promote
education about sustainability.
 Goal: Collective awareness and action can mitigate
climate change and protect biodiversity.

Climate Change
 Key Effects:
o Global warming and rising sea levels.
o Extreme weather events (stronger typhoons,
droughts, floods).
o Biodiversity loss and increased health risks
(heatstroke, crop failure).
 Philippine Context:
o Frequent heatwaves with temperatures up to
46°C.
o Farmers suffering from drought and crop
losses.
o Severe deforestation due to mining, logging,
and kaingin (slash-and-burn) farming.
 Solutions:
o Plant trees and restore forests to absorb CO₂.
o Reduce carbon emissions by shifting to
renewable energy and sustainable practices.
o Increase environmental awareness through
education and advocacy.

Summary:
• The world has experienced scarcity of non-renewable energy
resources, leading to energy crisis.

• The continuous reliance to non-renewable resources harm the

environment and increased the rate of climate change in our
planet.

• Given all the problems related to climate change and energy

crisis, one must have environmental awareness and initiate
means to take care of our world.

12