Positional argument: Green technologies - Essay Example

It will also point out the impact of scientific innovations to the environment and natural resources. Advantages of Green Technology to Business Companies Although opponents strongly feel that the implementation of green technology is costly and impractical, there are several advantages that can be gained from these scientific innovations, especially to business operations. One benefit that can be gained out from the implementation of this technology is lower material consumption which means less production cost.

Recycling, reuse, and the full utilization of materials lead to this benefit (Luo 132). Another advantage that Luo emphasizes is higher production output and at the same time higher quality of products are produced (132). When these benefits are fully realized by the company, customers can also benefit from it on their end by having lower product prices in the market. Moreover, business companies enjoy lower production costs; thus, they reap higher profits. One company that applies this type of innovation to their business operations is Intel Corporation.

They have started using this technology since 2008, and since then the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have ranked them as the top green technology- using company. They have been using geothermal and solar power as energy in substitute with electricity which is very costly (United States Environmental Protection Agency). Cohen also cites the significant increase in profits by Interface, a manufacturer of carpets, by simply applying the philosophy of proper waste management and recycling of waste materials (151).

Advantages of Green Technology to the Environment With the proper consumption and conservation of resources by companies, green technology also gives a solution to the deterioration of the environment. One advantage of this innovation is the efficient use of energy. Companies have resorted to use alternative sources in powering their production operations, like solar power and wind power. In Denmark, a power plant had sold its steam, a by-product of their production of coal, to another company that has used it for their own purposes (Cohen 157).

This business arrangement had decreased the chances of thermal pollution to occur in the atmosphere, thus, minimize the harmful effects of global warming. When fewer wastes are produced in the atmosphere, the environment is protected and natural resources are conserved to its utmost potential. Luo also notes the proper waste management adopted by companies, like Nike and Wal Mart as part of their business operations, thus, decreasing its negative impact to the environment (538). Furthermore, these two companies have adopted business processes that minimize the effects of pollution by integrating clean materials and proper housekeeping (Luo 299).

Disadvantages of Green Technology One disadvantage in the adoption of green technology in business operations is the high cost that it entails in terms of switching from one power source to another and the use of environment friendly materials (Joseph 1). Although this is possible, the cost that a company can get out from the implementation of this technology can offset the high cost in the long run. It is always expected that a high cost is needed in the installation of new technology. With the proper utilization of resources and the adoption of recycling waste materials, savings and a new source of revenue