Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
groups of workers faced with plant closures and job losses as happened in the 1970s.
There are certainly plenty of technical options for diversifi cation which could ensure
continued employment. And for scientists and engineers, there are some fascinating
challenges in developing the necessary technologies, reducing costs and improving
effi ciency as well as opening up new lines of innovation. For example, new types of
carbon-based solar cell are emerging that avoid the use of toxic materials, and a
wide range of marine energy systems is being developed (Elliott
2013
).
However, for all those involved in the transition, it is important that ethical, envi-
ronmental and political concerns shape the selection of options and the way they are
then used. It is not just about the switch to new technology. For energy, as in all
spheres, the issue is the same: we must control technology, not let it be directed in
ways which undermine life, including working conditions, or the environment
(Elliott and Elliott
1976
). A range of ethical and environmental codes and principles
have been suggested for technology choice and 'sustainable engineering', with the
type of work involved being one element (Elliott
2003
). They need to be acted on to
ensure that what emerge are jobs that are not only green in environmental terms but
also socially acceptable - good jobs in a good society.
References
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