Activity 2 - Global Warming

1. Solutions to global warming are aplenty, and the main idea is to reduce energy consumption and look for alternatives such as renewable sources of energy. As individuals, we can do our part to curb global warming by taking public transport instead of cars to reduce carbon footprint, turn on fans instead of air-cons, and use more energy-efficient appliances such as energy-saving light bulbs. The result may seem insignificant at first, but when everyone does that, the result will be amplified and it is an important step towards reducing global warming. Using biodegradable materials can reduce the need for incineration which will produce ashes as well, and this will reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which will global warming. Another method would be for countries to come together, collaborate and discuss about the possibility of high taxation to manufacturing companies whose factories are the main culprits of pollution. This will encourage those factories to develop more sustainable and environmentally-friendly technology to manufacture their products and avoid over-dependence on fossil fuels.

2. Singaporeans can play an active role in saving the planet by using the 3Rs, namely reduce, reuse and recycle. Besides this, there are also campaigns which are set up to inform citizens about the importance of going green, such as NTUC Fairprice’s initiative of going green by encouraging shoppers to purchase reusable bags from their franchise which will reduce the need to use plastic bags which are non-biodegradable. Singaporeans can also do their part at home by using energy-efficient appliances, rice water to water plants, water from washing machine to clean their toilets et cetera. In this way, they can truly know the importance of going green and that they can indeed play a part in it.

3. In HCI, we can organize competitions, especially quizzes which will appeal more to the students such as a Fact or Fantasy quiz, which will test the abilities of students to identify the facts about global warming and effects of going green. A CCA such as gardening and environmental activists can be set up and this will enable the students to know more about global warming and what we can do to curb it. If these CCAs cannot attract enough students, then this can be made into a compulsory part of the curriculum, such that it can engage all students.