In light of pressing global issues, scientists emphasize the indispensable role of science in safeguarding our planet’s future. Historical successes, like the Montreal Protocol’s role in curbing ozone layer depletion, showcase science’s potential in preventing disasters. However, recent assessments indicate that six out of nine Planetary Boundaries essential for Earth’s stability have been breached.
Read the article to know the urgent need for evidence-based approaches, increased investment in scientific research, and global collaboration to address environmental and health challenges
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “precipice” mean? “Science has saved us many times from the precipice of disaster and given us breakthroughs that have saved millions of lives and opened new frontiers of possibility.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “undermine” mean? ” If we want to leave a flourishing future for generations to come, science should consistently be nurtured, celebrated and invested in, not dismissed, undermined and attacked.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “abruptly” mean? “Recent political moves in the United States and in other nations have severely reduced science budgets and abruptly halted critical research; threatening lives, halting innovation, undermining economies and risking planetary stability. “ Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What historical example shows how science successfully helped prevent an environmental crisis?
- What are the “Planetary Boundaries,” and how many of them have been exceeded according to recent assessments?
- Why is it important to use evidence-based approaches when dealing with global issues like climate change or public health?
- How can increased investment in scientific research help protect the planet and future generations?
- What role should international cooperation play in solving large-scale scientific and environmental problems?