Practise IB ESS HL 1.1.8 by evaluating contrasting environmental perspectives and their proposed solutions to resource problems.
To what extent is a technocentric value system more appropriate than other value systems in addressing issues of sustainability?
Answers may demonstrate:
- understanding concepts \& terminology of technocentrism; anthropocentrism; ecocentrism; valuing components of biosphere \& natural capital; social/economic/environmental sustainability; environmental indicators; ecological footprint; EIA; pollution management strategies; biodiversity conservation; access to clean fresh water; access to food; aquaculture; sustainable development goals; industrialization; commercial high-input food production systems; soil degradation; soil conservation; urbanization; catalytic converters; scrubbers; carbon capture technology; mitigation/adaptation strategies; GMOs; drought-resistant crops; coastal defences; CFC alternatives; shifting to renewable resources; hydropower/nuclear/wind/solar; electric vehicles; vertical farming; increasing carrying capacity; environmental degradation; resource depletion;
- breadth in addressing range of technocentric values/strategies/developmental projects/policies and linking them with responsible use and sustainable management of resources \& different aspects of sustainability.
- examples of technocentric values, strategies, developments, policies addressing issues of sustainability, like pollution, environmental degradation, economic inequalities, social conflicts.
- balanced analysis evaluating extent to which technocentric strategies manage to effectively address issues of sustainability AND comparing them with corresponding strategies based on different EVSs.
- a conclusion that is consistent with, and supported by analysis and examples given e.g. Technocentrism emphasizes economic development, scientific progress and technological solutions rather than self-restrain, respect to tradition and changes in behavior, which are usually considered the safer road toward sustainability. However, commitment by technocentrists to sustainable development has led to impressive technological developments and innovations that allow responsible and sustainable use of resources.
Please see markbands on page 23.