Environmental Ethics and Civil Engineering PDF

1.5 ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS Environmental Ethics Environmental ethics is a branch of philosophy that studies how people should interact with the environment. It considers the value of the environment and the moral obligations people have to protect it. Anthropocentrism Anthropocentrism is...

1.5 ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS Environmental Ethics Environmental ethics is a branch of philosophy that studies how people should interact with the environment. It considers the value of the environment and the moral obligations people have to protect it. Anthropocentrism Anthropocentrism is the belief that humans are the most important beings on Earth, and that all other things are only important if they benefit humans. In the long run, anthropocentrism can lead to environmental problems such as climate change, deforestation, and species extinction. Biocentrism Biocentrism is an ethical belief that all living things have value and deserve respect, not just humans. It teaches that humans are part of nature, not above it, and that all plants, animals, and microorganisms should be treated with care. Unlike anthropocentric views, which prioritize human interests, biocentrism emphasizes the value of all life forms. Relating this with civil engineering Biocentrism in civil engineering encourages the design and construction of infrastructure that minimizes harm to living organisms. For example, in road construction, biocentric approaches include wildlife corridors or green bridges to allow animals to cross safely without human interference. This idea is important in conservation efforts, such as protecting endangered species, preserving forests, and promoting sustainable farming. In short, all living organisms, without exception, individually possess equal value and the same exact right to live. Ecocentrism Ecocentrism goes beyond biocentrism by focusing on protecting entire ecosystems, including both living and non-living things like water, air, and soil. It teaches that a healthy environment is more important than just human needs. Ecocentrism in civil engineering emphasizes designing and constructing infrastructure that prioritizes environmental health and ecosystem stability rather than just human convenience. It focuses on reducing environmental damage, promoting sustainable development, and integrating nature into engineering solutions. Installing rainwater harvesting systems in buildings or infrastructure is a straightforward example of ecocentrism in civil engineering. These systems collect and store rainwater from roofs or surfaces, which can then be used for irrigation, cleaning, or even drinking after proper filtration.  Both biocentrism and ecocentrism help us understand why it’s important to protect nature, not just for ourselves but for all life on Earth. 1.6 ENVIRONMENTAL PRINCIPLE OF NATURE The 7 Principles of Nature 1.​ Nature knows best. Nature has its own way to balance the ecosystem. When humans interfere too much, it disrupts natural processes, causing problems like pollution and climate change. Kaya importanteng maintindihan natin ang natural flow ng environment. Kung susundin natin ang natural process, mas madali nating ma-achieve ang sustainable living, tulad ng carbon cycle, oxygen cycle, at iba pang cycles. Sa civil engineering, ang eco-friendly designs at sustainable materials ay nakakatulong para hindi maapektuhan ang natural balance ng kalikasan. (Also added some extemporaneous remark) 2.​ All forms of life are important. Every living organism on Earth plays a vital role in our ecosystem. Big or small, every organism contributes to life balance. For example, ang mga bees ay mahalaga sa pollination na nagpo-produce ng pagkain. Ang pagkawala ng kahit isang species ay maaaring magdulot ng domino effect na makakaapekto sa lahat. Sa civil engineering, dapat isaalang-alang ang wildlife conservation sa paggawa ng mga imprastraktura para hindi mawala ang tirahan ng mga hayop. (Also added some extemporaneous remark) 3.​ Everything is connected to everything else. Magkakaugnay ang lahat ng bagay sa kalikasan. Any disturbance in one part of the environment affects others. Halimbawa, ang deforestation ay nagdudulot ng soil erosion at pagkawala ng habitat ng mga hayop. Sa parehong paraan, ang polusyon sa ilog ay nakakaapekto hindi lang sa tubig kundi pati na rin sa mga taong umaasa rito. Sa civil engineering, ang tamang urban planning at drainage system ay nakakatulong upang maiwasan ang pagbaha at soil erosion. (Also added some extemporaneous remark). 4.​ Everything changes Walang permanenteng bagay sa mundo. Nature is constantly changing, kaya dapat tayong mag-adjust. Pero dapat nating siguraduhin na ang ating mga pagbabago ay hindi nakakasira sa kalikasan. Ang pag-accept sa pagbabago ay mahalaga, pero ang pagiging proactive sa environmental conservation ay mas kinakailangan. Sa civil engineering,ang paggamit ng climate-resilient designs ay mahalaga upang makasabay sa nagbabagong panahon at natural disasters. (Also added some extemporaneous remark) 5.​ Everything must go somewhere. Ang lahat ng basura o gamit na itinapon ay may pupuntahan. Garbage does not just disappear; it ends up in landfills, rivers, or oceans. Kaya dapat tayong mag-practice ng proper waste disposal at recycling. Ang paglimit sa paggamit ng single-use plastics ay malaking tulong upang mabawasan ang basura. The Philippines produces up to 24% plastic waste in its daily solid waste, which is about 61,000 metric tons, making it a major contributor to global plastic pollution. Sa civil engineering, mahalaga ang solid waste management at paggamit ng recycled materials para mabawasan ang basura sa ating paligid.(Also added some extemporaneous remark) 6.​ Ours is a finite earth. Ang mundo ay may limitadong resources. Kung sosobra ang paggamit natin, mauubos ito at hindi na mapapalitan. Halimbawa, ang tubig, kagubatan, at mineral ay dapat gamitin nang responsable. Dapat nating tandaan na ang paggamit ng natural resources ay para rin sa susunod na henerasyon, hindi lang para sa ngayon. Sa civil engineering, ang paggamit ng renewable energy at sustainable materials ay nakakatulong upang mapangalagaan ang ating likas na yaman. (Also added some extemporaneous remark) 7.​ Nature is beautiful, and we are stewards of God’s creation. Ang kalikasan ay biyaya mula sa Diyos. Tungkulin natin itong protektahan at alagaan upang maipamana sa mga susunod na henerasyon. Ang pagpapahalaga sa natural na ganda ng mundo ay humahantong sa mas malalim na respeto sa kalikasan at sa Diyos. Sa civil engineering, ang pagtatayo ng green spaces tulad ng parks at gardens ay tumutulong upang mapanatili ang ganda at balanse ng kalikasan sa mga siyudad. (Also added some extemporaneous remark) Additional Statement: Civil engineering should follow nature’s ways to build strong and lasting structures. Just like trees grow with deep roots to stay firm, buildings should have strong foundations. Water flows in cycles, so we should design systems that save and reuse water. Nature does not waste anything, so we should use materials wisely and reduce waste. By learning from nature, we can build roads, bridges, and houses that are safe, strong, and good for the environment. Self made quote: "Every step towards caring for the environment is a step towards a better future for all." - Joshua Mallari The Earth's Ten Commandments As civil engineers, we are more than just builders of roads, bridges, and structures. We are stewards of the environment, responsible for ensuring that our designs and projects contribute to a sustainable future. The choices we make today will shape the world for generations to come. By integrating sustainability into our practices, we can help preserve the Earth while improving human life. The following ten principles outline our ethical duty to the planet. 1.​ Thou shalt love and honor the Earth, for it blesses thy life and governs thy survival. The Earth provides everything we need to survive, making it our duty to protect and value it. Civil engineers must prioritize sustainability in every project by using eco-friendly materials, designing energy-efficient buildings, and reducing waste. For example, instead of traditional concrete, we can opt for recycled concrete or green roofing to lessen environmental impact. 2.​ Thou shalt keep each day sacred to the Earth and celebrate the turning of its seasons. Recognizing seasonal changes and respecting natural rhythms help maintain ecological balance. Engineers must consider natural processes such as climate patterns, earthquakes, and floods in their designs. Japan serves as an excellent example, as most of its buildings are earthquake-resistant, designed to withstand frequent seismic activity. 3.​ Thou shalt not hold thyself above other living things nor drive them to extinction. Humanity often sees itself as superior to other species, but all living organisms play a role in maintaining ecological balance. Urban development frequently destroys natural habitats, endangering wildlife. To counter this, engineers must incorporate green spaces, eco-friendly infrastructure, and wildlife corridors into their designs to preserve biodiversity. 4.​ Thou shalt give thanks for thy food to the creatures and plants that nourish thee. Plants and animals sustain life, and recognizing their value fosters responsible consumption. While civil engineers may not directly work in food production, they impact agriculture through irrigation systems, flood control, and soil management. Proper water management ensures food security, while urban farming and vertical gardens promote sustainable food production in cities. 5.​ Thou shalt limit thy offspring, for multitudes of people are a burden unto the Earth. The world’s population reached 8 billion in 2022, straining natural resources, particularly non-renewable ones. While population growth is beyond an engineer’s direct control, we can contribute by designing smart cities with efficient zoning, green spaces, and effective waste management. Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is an example of sustainable urban planning, promoting balanced development and environmental conservation. 6.​ Thou shalt not kill nor waste Earth’s riches upon weapons of war. Prioritizing peace and sustainability over military expansion prevents unnecessary depletion of resources. Instead of focusing on war-related infrastructure, civil engineers should prioritize projects that enhance life, such as hospitals, schools, and renewable energy facilities. 7.​ Thou shalt not pursue profit at the Earth’s expense, but strive to restore its damaged majesty. Economic growth should not come at the cost of environmental destruction. Many companies prioritize profit over sustainability, leading to ecological disasters such as illegal mining in Surigao del Norte, which caused severe deforestation and water pollution. Engineers must advocate for ethical construction practices and sustainable industry regulations. 8.​ Thou shalt not hide from thyself or others the consequences of thy actions upon the Earth. Acknowledging and addressing human impact on the environment ensures informed and responsible decision-making. Before launching any project, conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is crucial. For instance, the construction of the Kaliwa Dam raised concerns about its effects on indigenous communities and ecosystems. Engineers must ensure that all projects secure proper environmental clearance and community consultation. 9.​ Thou shalt not steal from future generations by impoverishing or poisoning the Earth. Unsustainable practices, such as deforestation and pollution, deprive future generations of a livable planet. We must promote sustainable solutions, such as solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient buildings. A notable example is the Arthaland Century Pacific Tower in Taguig, a Net Zero Building that uses natural lighting and solar power to minimize its carbon footprint. 10.​ Thou shalt consume material goods in moderation so all may share Earth’s bounty. Excessive consumption leads to resource depletion and environmental degradation. Engineers can mitigate this by reducing construction waste through recycling and adaptive reuse of old structures. For example, old warehouses in Intramuros were repurposed into restaurants and museums instead of being demolished, preserving cultural heritage while minimizing waste. Conclusion Civil engineers are not just builders; we are environmental stewards. The choices we make today will shape the future of our planet. True progress is not measured solely by towering skyscrapers and vast infrastructures but by how well we preserve the Earth for future generations. By adhering to these Ten Commandments, we can design responsibly, build sustainably, and think long-term. Because at the end of the day, engineering is not just about what we construct—it’s about how we leave the world for those who come after us. Let us build with purpose, innovate with responsibility, and ensure that our legacy is one of sustainability. 1.7 LEVELS OF ORGANIZATIONS OF NATURE Levels of organizations of Nature It describes the hierarchical system and other biological entities of every living organism that illustrates how complex systems like the biosphere are made out of simple systems like atoms. Presenting the organization of Ecosystem What is an Ecosystem? Ecosystem describes the reaction of every living and nonliving organisms in each area. In simple terms it illustrates how living organisms like plants, humans and animals interact with each other. What is Ecology? A scientific study of the interaction between organisms and their environment, as it focuses on understanding how living organisms interact with their surroundings. 1.8 LEVELS OF ECOLOGICAL STUDY Level of ecological study 1.​ Organismal ecology Organismal ecology is the study of how individual organisms interact with their environment. It focuses on how an organism’s physical traits, behavior, and adaptations help it survive and reproduce in its habitat.  For example, studying how a frog regulates its body temperature, you can also know what a bird eats base on its beak shape 2.​ Population ecology Population ecology is the study of how groups of the same species live and change over time. It also helps determine if a species is endangered. For example, studying why a group of frogs in a pond is growing or shrinking, how many offspring they produce, or how they compete for food is part of population ecology. 3.​ Community Ecology Community Ecology focuses on how different species coexist and interact within a particular area. It studies: 1.​ Species Diversity – The variety of species living in an area. 2.​ Community Structure – How species are organized and interact with each other. 3.​ Species Interactions, including: ○​ Competition – Organisms competing for resources like food and space. ○​ Predation – Where one species hunts another for survival. 4. Ecosystem Ecology Ecosystem Ecology studies the flow of energy, nutrient cycling, and the relationship between organisms and their environment. It focuses on: 1.​ Energy Flow – How energy moves through an ecosystem, from the sun to plants and animals. 2.​ Nutrient Cycling – The movement of essential nutrients like water, carbon, and nitrogen throughout the ecosystem. 3.​ Ecosystem Components: ○​ Producers (plants) ○​ Consumers (animals) ○​ Decomposers (bacteria, fungi) We can relate this to Civil Engineering because understanding these ecological concepts is crucial for engineers. When constructing infrastructures or working on projects, we must consider the impact on local wildlife and biodiversity. A common example is deforestation for construction, which can disrupt species diversity and lead to ecological imbalances. 5. Biome Ecology A biome is a large area on Earth with a specific climate, soil type, and living organisms, like deserts, rainforests, or tundras.  6. Biosphere Ecology Biosphere ecology is the study of how all living things on Earth interact with each other and their environment. 1.9 BRANCHES OF ECOLOGY Branches of Ecology 1.​ Behavioral Ecology Behavioral Ecology focuses on understanding the behavior of animals and how it helps them survive and reproduce. It looks into aspects like mating systems, foraging strategies, and communication. Example for Civil Engineering: A civil engineer working on a bridge near a river might consider the behavior of fish during their spawning season(panahon ng pangingitlog). maaari rin kasi silang masmapagod at mastress kapag sila ay naabala baka isipin na lang nila tumigil lang nang tuluyan sa pangigitlog. Kaya sa pagintindi kung kailan and how fish migrate upstream, the engineer can design the bridge's construction schedule to avoid disturbing these critical periods, at para siguradong makakasurvive ang mga isda at makakapagparami. 2.​ Conservation Ecology Example for Civil Engineering: When designing a residential area, a civil engineer can use conservation ecology principles, to leave green spaces What it means: Green spaces are areas like parks, gardens, or forests that are kept natural or planted with trees and plants in the middle of the city. Why it helps: These green spaces are important because they help protect wildlife, improve air quality, and give people a place to relax. If engineers know which areas have important ecosystems (like habitats for animals), they can make sure to preserve them or create new green spaces around them.  3.​ Landscape Ecology Landscape Ecology is an interdisciplinary science that studies the relationship between ecological processes in the environment and various ecosystems. It focuses on different landscape scales, spatial patterns, and organizational levels in research and policy. It is also known as the "science of landscape diversity" because it examines the combination of biodiversity (the number and types of organisms in a specific area) and geodiversity (the physical aspects of a landscape, such as soil, water, and climate). It is not just about nature. Landscape Ecology combines natural and social sciences to understand the broader connection between nature and humans. In simpler terms, it studies spatially heterogeneous areas or places with various ecosystems—ranging from natural systems like forests, grasslands, and lakes to human-dominated areas such as cities and farmlands. One of the most crucial aspects of Landscape Ecology is the relationship between pattern, process, and scale. Pattern refers to the arrangement of landscape components, while process involves the continuous operations of nature, such as energy flow or species migration. It also addresses significant ecological and environmental issues, such as biodiversity conservation, land use change, and climate change adaptation. Another essential concept in Landscape Ecology is heterogeneity, or the diversity of landscape components. This examines how the spatial structure of a place affects the abundance of organisms and the overall functioning of the landscape. Additionally, geomorphology is important in Landscape Ecology. Geomorphology refers to the role of geological formations in shaping a landscape's structure. Through this, we gain a better understanding of how a place was formed and its impact on ecological processes. Relationship Between Civil Engineering and Landscape Ecology Civil Engineering and Landscape Ecology are interconnected in the planning and design of areas to ensure a balance between urbanization and environmental conservation. In Civil Engineering, projects such as roads, buildings, and other infrastructure can impact nature. Therefore, Landscape Ecology serves an essential function in studying the patterns and processes of a site to minimize the effects on biodiversity, water flow, and other natural processes. In simpler terms, Landscape Ecology guides Civil Engineers in creating designs that benefit not only humans but also the environment. 4.​ Population Genetics Population Genetics is the study of genetic variation within a population and the factors such as mutation, gene flow, genetic drift, and natural selection that influence it. It helps us understand how traits within a population change over time and how they adapt to their environment. How Does Genetic Variation Affect a Population? Genetic variation refers to the differences in genetic material among individuals within a population. This variation arises from mutations (changes in DNA), gene flow (the transfer of genes from one population to another), and genetic drift (random changes in gene frequency). These variations help a population adapt to its environment. For example, if mutations provide some organisms with the ability to survive new conditions, those organisms may thrive and pass on their genes to future generations. Natural selection is a process in which organisms with traits better suited to their environment have a higher chance of survival and reproduction. Due to natural selection and other genetic processes, populations gradually develop adaptations to their environment. If a population becomes isolated and no longer interacts with other populations, its genetic composition may change significantly, leading to speciation — the formation of new species. Importance of Population Genetics Population Genetics is essential because it provides insights into how and why populations change over time. Understanding the genetic diversity of a species is also crucial for planning conservation efforts, such as protecting endangered species. Relationship Between Civil Engineering and Population Genetics Civil Engineering is connected to Population Genetics in projects that affect the environment. Large engineering projects such as dam construction, urban development, and road expansion can impact the natural habitats of animals and plants. Environmental changes caused by these projects can lead to genetic isolation in some species, weakening or disrupting gene flow, and resulting in changes to genetic diversity. In such situations, Civil Engineers can plan sustainable projects that help preserve natural habitats and maintain healthy gene flow in species.