Technological development leads to a lot of environmental issues. Some people think a simple lifestyle can preserve the environment, while others argue that technology itself can solve it. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

The world is undergoing an age of constant technological developments, but such developments come at the cost of exacerbating environmental problems. Personally, although I am a believer in the potential of technology regarding solving such environmental issues, I consider leading a simple and minimalistic lifestyle the better option. With this essay, I will explore both sides of the argument before providing my own conclusions.

To begin with, a lifestyle focusing on the tenet of minimalism and simplicity will witness a significant reduction in the production of waste. An ardent minimalist will never buy tchotchkes that they find no practical need for. Instead, they will only make purchases that are relevant to their lives, and they can use constantly. Therefore, they will only release an unsubstantial amount of waste to the environment. As for the waste that they must release, minimalists are mindful of the quantity and the impact of such waste, and they will try to minimise that waste. A perfect example would be reusable metal straws. It is incredibly convenient to just use the plastic straw that comes with every drink purchase, and throw it in the bin after usage. Yet, what many do not realise is that such straws are haphazardly dumped into our oceans, and I have seen marine animals mistaking these colourful straws for food on more than one occasion. Replacing one-use plastic straws with their infinite-use metal counterparts will help reduce the amount of plastic waste we create. And, although the upfront investment may be steep, but there will be many health and environmental benefits in the long term.

On top of that, a simple lifestyle that replaces using cars and motorbikes with walking, biking or utilising public transportation can significantly increase the quality of the air we breathe in. While it is true that one bus may emit more carbon dioxide than a single care, it is also important to note that one bus may provide mobility to upwards of 20 people, whereas a car can only contain five to seven people at once. Therefore, the amount of CO2 emitted by 20 people riding the bus can be substantially lower than that of 20 car users. In addition, cities can install infrastructure that supports and even prioritises pedestrians and bikers, like dedicated bike lanes. This may be initially costly, but such infrastructure is going to significantly improve life quality in these cities in the long run.

However, science and technology can also help tremendously in developing innovative solutions to our environmental problems. Recent leaps in technology have facilitated researchers in developing alternatives to objects and habits that currently have a detrimental effect on our environment. For example, material chemists are now trying to find an ideal alternative to plastic bags, which take centuries to fully decompose, and release harmful microplastic beads. These scientists are looking into creating a seaweed-based form of plastic, one that only needs a week to decompose after burial, and releases beneficial nutrients into the soil.

To sum up, while it is apparent that the usage of technology can be tremendously useful in solving the world's environmental problems, it is undeniable that leading a simple, minimalistic lifestyle is the better way to preserve our environment.