The importance of science in the search for solutions to the challenges of the twenty-first century – Defence

The twenty-first century has been marked by many challenges in many fields, such as health, environment, economy, energy, and technology. In the face of such complex and interrelated problems, it is imperative that science be an ally in the search for solutions. After all, it is through scientific research that we can better understand the world around us, develop more advanced technologies and find more effective ways to tackle global problems.

But why is science so important in solving our challenges? How can they contribute to making the world a better place? In this text, we will explore these questions and show how important scientific research is to confronting the dilemmas of the 21st century.

Global challenges of the twenty-first century

Before talking about the importance of science, it is important to understand what are the main challenges facing humanity in this century. The list is extensive and includes topics such as:

• weather changes: Global warming, extreme weather events and sea level rise are some of the effects of climate change caused by the emission of greenhouse gases from human activity.
• Epidemics and diseases: The pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus has shown how infectious diseases can spread around the world in a matter of weeks. In addition, other diseases, such as cancer, remain a challenge for medicine.
• Water shortageThe lack of safe drinking water is a serious problem in many parts of the world, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Poor water management and pollution also contribute to the deterioration of resource quality.
• social and economic inequalityUnequal distribution of wealth, racial and gender discrimination, lack of opportunity and other factors contribute to social and economic inequality, affecting the lives of billions of people.
• Energy securityReliance on fossil fuels is a problem that requires urgent solutions, as the emission of polluting gases contributes to climate change. Moreover, energy security is a challenge, especially in countries that depend on external sources.

These are just a few examples of the challenges we face in this century. Each has its own characteristics, but they all have aspects in common: they are complex, affect the lives of many people, and require innovative and effective solutions.

The importance of science in the search for solutions

In the face of such large and complex problems, it is natural to feel helpless. However, science can help us find solutions. Understand why:

• Science helps us understand the worldBefore we can find solutions, we need to understand the causes of the problems. And in this sense science is of paramount importance: it helps us better understand how the world works, from the molecular to the global scale. Through research, experiments, and simulations, scientists gain knowledge that can be used to solve practical problems.
• Science develops advanced technologiesMany solutions to the challenges of the 21st century involve technological innovation. For example, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we need more efficient clean energy technologies such as solar and wind power. To combat diseases like Covid-19, we need more advanced drugs and vaccines. Science is the basis for the development of these technologies.
• Science enables global collaborationMany of the challenges we face are global and require collaboration between countries and research institutions around the world. Science is a universal language that allows knowledge exchange and cooperation between scientists of different nationalities and cultures.
• Science promotes ethics and transparencyScientific research is guided by ethical values ​​such as integrity, honesty, and transparency. This is important because many of the solutions to our problems involve critical decisions that affect people’s lives and the planet. Science offers us a reliable way to develop evidence-based solutions that respect ethical values.

Examples of scientific solutions to the challenges of the twenty-first century

Even if the challenges of the 21st century seem insurmountable, there are already many scientific solutions in progress that point to a more sustainable and just future. See some examples:

• Renewable energySolar and wind energy are examples of clean energy sources that have become increasingly popular in recent years. In addition, electric vehicles are becoming more efficient and affordable, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Artificial intelligence in medicineArtificial intelligence has been used in many areas of medicine, from diagnosing diseases to discovering new drugs. This allows for more flexible and accurate patient care, as well as accelerating the development of new therapies.
• Precision farmingIntensive farming is one of the main factors responsible for environmental degradation. Precision farming, which uses technologies like drones and sensors, allows for more efficient and sustainable production, with less chemicals used and less water wasted.
• Water reuseWater is a precious and scarce resource in many parts of the world. Water reuse is a technical solution that allows the treatment and recycling of water that would otherwise be discarded. This reduces the demand for fresh water and helps conserve water resources.