Engineering As A Solution To Overpopulation
On whether overpopulation can be solved with engineering, I am of the view that engineering can be used as a tool to gravely mitigate the issue, to the point where its impact is negligible. However, this is only possible if all authoritative figures and stakeholders make a collective effort to solve this problem. Simply put, the resources necessary to undertake overpopulation is high. Engineers as a stand-alone body cannot accomplish much if those in authority aren’t fully committed to resolving the issue. Thus, for momentous change it is essential it be a joint venture between government, investors, and engineers/scientists.
One-way to use engineering would be increasing the efficiency of the industrial systems we use. Whether manufacturing, construction, or agriculture, by optimising these processes to limit energy input but deliver maximum output, alternately reduces consumption of the resources needed at the start of teach process. Conjointly, advancements in waste control, management, and recycling will also help build more efficient systems. For instance, municipal wastewater can be used to irrigate and fertilise agricultural land. Municipal solid waste can also be used to generate energy and with other innovations like this, the dependency on have on finite resources can be lifted. From this, it follows that seeking alternative energy sources to the ominous yet predominant options (oil, coal, natural gas) will help curb overpopulation. With such advantages like lower emissions, lower fuel prices and a reduction in pollution, alternative fuels far outperform their fossil fuel counterparts in these regards. However, there are downsides to this option that engineering can aid with. Mainly capital costs, the initial cost of building and installing many renewably energy plants like wind and solar farms are still exceptionally high. Engineers need to discover ways to lower initial costs needed to commission these plants. By making alternative energy the most viable all-round, can change the status quo and accelerate the shift away from fossil fuels.
Another approach is through urban planning and modification of city design. The intent is that planners will consider the following, an area’s environment (physical, social, and economic), residents, future demands (land, water, food, and other amenities), and how to treats its waste. Each city’s needs should be assessed individually with designs produced based on these findings. Although keeping in mind, those solutions presented should coordinate with plans generally, as it relates to fixing the globe. In doing so, we’ll begin to see a comprehensive shift in our society for the better.
