Environmental Ethics

Author(s): S M Jain
Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy

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dissolved gold into solid gold through an enzyme that coats microbes. Bacterium Alcaligens is used for biodegradable mouldable polymer polyhexamurates. The DRDO scientists in India have developed microbes that clean wastes at Siachin glacier. The bateria Agrobacterium radobactor degrade explosives down to natural compounds and minerals. Bacteria Dehalococcodies ethenogenes is a pollution eating bacteria which was first found in sewage sludge (Research Scholar Rekha Sesdhari of the Institute of Genomic Research in Mary Land). The bug has different strains eating different pollutants. Dermestid beetles are used to clean bones because of their unmatched ability to strip bones off desiccated flesh of mammal carcasses without damaging even the smallest most delicate specimens for long term archival preservation. Several bacteria, fungus and virus are used for manufacture of various medicines. Yesti fungus is used in medicine for cancer. In genetic engineering protein is carried through virus. New chemicals are being developed through bacteria. There are numerous examples in nature of symbiotic mutually beneficial relationships.
In human society mutually beneficial, complementary, supplementary relationships between individuals, groups and nations are necessary for peace, happiness and even efficiency of any activity. Symbiotic relationship also implies obligation and duty to help weak, disabled, poor, sick and old. Such conditions are generally inevitable and every one is prone to these. It is not out of compassion but as a duty that society should take care of such people because any one, any time may get afflicted needing care and help. Old people have given a lot to society and their experience can be gainfully utilised and therefore should be cared not out of pity but as duty in lieu of their contribution. Joint family system is an ideal example where young, adult and old contribute for mutual benefits.
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