We use technology to solve real-world problems. 

The new technologies, which are undergoing regular advancements are computers, communication technology, digital technology, multifunctional devices including mobile phones and military weapons. 

Advantages 

● Better communication  

● Automation of jobs  

● Easy access to information  

● Innovation and creativity  

● Increased efficiency and productivity  

Disadvantages 

● Reduced human interactions and knowledge  

● Loss of jobs  

● Privacy issues  

● Intellectual property theft and cyberattack  

● Environmental issues  

Technology is good because it simplifies the way we do things in our daily lives, however, if incorrectly applied, it can be harmful in many ways. 

Our environment is unique in its ability to sustain life forms. Human evolution and the development of technology has empowered every aspect of our lives. The onus is on us to use this technology to help the environment and protect it from further degeneration. Technology can be used to monitor and facilitate:  

● Reduce your consumption. Ask yourself 'Do you really need it?' Do not fall for things shown by advertisers  

● Rethink what you buy – buy only what is needed and buy quality products that last longer. This reduces the need to replace products frequently, lessening our energy and carbon footprint  

● Reuse/repurpose/repair what can be used or made functional. If you are replacing gadgets that are still functional, donate them to the needy, either directly or through charities that distribute them  

● Recycle what cannot be reused and do it responsibly 

The wireless technologies of 2G, 3G and 4G, currently in use within our cell phones, computers and wearable tech, create radiofrequency exposure, which poses a serious health risk to humans, animals and the environment. The 5G technology is intended to be the technology that allows the Internet of Things (IOT) to exist and tie all internet connected devices together. However, scientists are cautioning that before rolling out 5G, its effects on human and ecological health must be urgently investigated, to ensure the public and environment are protected. 

An appeal by more than 180 scientists and doctors from 36 countries, recommend a moratorium on the roll-out of 5G until potential hazards for human health and the environment have been fully investigated. The appeal mentions that 5G technology is effective only over short distances. This means several new antennas will be required and the full-scale implementation will result in antennas every 10 to 12 houses in urban areas, thus massively increasing radiofrequency exposure. With the increased number of 5G-transmitters and the connection of all electronic appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, surveillance cameras, self-driving cars and buses, etc.), as parts of the IOTs, 5G will substantially increase exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). It is argued that the increased exposure to this RF-EMF will lead to serious health problems, including, cancer risks, cellular stress, increase in harmful free radicals, genetic damages, structural and functional changes of the reproductive system, learning and memory deficits, neurological disorders, and overall negative impacts on the general wellbeing of humans. Damage goes well beyond humans, as there is growing evidence of harmful effects to both plants and animals. 

The effect of technology on the environment is so huge that there is drastic climate change around the world. There is damage in the form of warming of the earth, leading to the rise in sea level, changes in weather patterns, extinction of birds and plants, and greater propensity for diseases. These changes are due to an increase in pollution, heat generation, inactive life habits, excess reliance on gadgets, Given below are the effects of technology on the environment:  

● Increase in travel and pollution: In the past, we relied on horses and camels for travel. With the advancement in technology, we now travel more frequently and greater distances in a shorter time. As technology advances, pollution of air, water, land, radiation and noise also increases. Can you explain how pollution is increased in this context?  

● Excess power consumption: We use technology in education, in the workplace, at home and even in remote places. We are highly dependent on television, computer, smartphones and other gadgets. Before technological advancements, our use of electricity was basic and mainly used for lighting homes. Now, use electricity 24 hours a day and in all seasons, to keep our gadgets and appliances running. We need electricity to run our home appliances, such as refrigerator, microwave oven, dishwasher, washer and dryer, entertainment systems, etc. The constant need of electric energy to make our gadgets work non -stop, leads to burning of fossil or nuclear fuels on a large scale.  

● More waste generation (e -waste): We contribute a large amount of toxic waste in the name of technological upgradation. In 2012, 50 million tons of e -waste was generated worldwide – or about 7 kg for every person on the planet. These are electronic goods made up of hundreds of different materials and containing toxic substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and flame retardants. An old -style CRT computer screen can contain up to 3 kg of lead, for example. Previously, we used large sized computers. For this we needed large monitors, CPUs, separate keyboards, mouse etc. Now we tend to use laptops and tablets. As advertisement stimulates our greed and desires, we tend to frequently upgrade our computer/laptop/tablet, music system, mobile phone, etc., and as a result, all of these are creating electronic (e -waste) at a rapid scale. While we upgrade our technological devices, we get rid of old items, which not only can cause serious life - but threatening health issues also if disposed of irresponsibly, they are being transported thousands of miles to West Africa and Asia for dumping.  What do you do with old electronic items after replacing them with new ones? Do you follow the 5Rs (Refuse, Reduce, Repurpose/Repair, Reuse, Recycle)? 

● Deforestation: Technological developments like any other kind of development requires space and hence land, leading to deforestation and a displacement of animals and natural habitats which leads to extinction of species and loss of biodiversity affecting the environment’s natural cycles. 

Image source: 

Connecting the Future: Three Wireless Trends on the 2020 Horizon 

How Has Wireless Technology Changed How We Do Business?