The technologies humans adopt significantly influence energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. While modern technology has enhanced productivity and comfort.
Its reliance on fossil fuels has led to a surge in carbon emissions, contributing to global warming and climate change. These changes are causing rapid ice melt in Antarctica and Greenland, rising sea levels, and threatening millions living in low-lying areas and small islands.
Economic Development and Modern Technology
In developing countries like Indonesia, economic growth has spurred a shift toward modern technology. Imported equipment from developed nations has transformed lifestyles, replacing traditional practices with modern, consumptive behaviors.
People now rely heavily on private cars, air conditioners, refrigerators, and other electrical appliances, often overlooking the environmental costs. This shift has led to a dramatic increase in carbon emissions, as modern technology predominantly depends on fossil fuels. The rise in energy-intensive lifestyles highlights the urgent need for sustainable alternatives.
Buildings, Housing, and Carbon Emissions
Modern technology has enabled the construction of high-rise buildings, which consume significantly more energy per square meter than low-rise structures. Energy is required for escalators, water pumps, air conditioning, and other systems. In Indonesia, the number of skyscrapers has grown rapidly, from 40 in 2009 to an estimated 250 by 2020.
This growth has led to a sixfold increase in carbon emissions from skyscrapers alone, underscoring the environmental impact of urban development. As cities expand, the energy demands of modern infrastructure continue to drive carbon emissions, exacerbating global warming.
New Technology, Behavior, and Global Warming
While new technologies offer convenience and comfort, their excessive use contributes to global warming through increased carbon emissions. Many people remain unaware of the long-term consequences of their reliance on modern technology. For instance, the widespread use of air conditioners and private vehicles has become a norm, often without considering the environmental toll.
To mitigate these effects, a return to traditional and appropriate technologies—powered by human effort, wind, water, and solar energy—could reduce emissions without compromising quality of life. Sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient buildings and renewable energy sources, are essential for balancing modern advancements with environmental preservation.
Conclusion
The widespread adoption of modern technology has fueled economic growth but at a significant environmental cost. The resulting increase in carbon emissions has accelerated global warming, posing a threat to human existence.
By balancing modern advancements with traditional, sustainable practices, we can reduce our carbon footprint and protect the planet for future generations. Governments, industries, and individuals must collaborate to promote energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
