E-Portfolio 5 Summary of Round table discussion in class

The Round Table Discussion is an argumentative discussion, where there is a moderator, an opposing side and a supporting side. The topics for the Round Table discussions are based on recent technologies such as Carbon Capture and Storage technology, Green Chemistry technology, and Bio-Diesel technology. This blog will provide the summary of the main arguments of each topic and the writer’s opinion on each Round Table Discussion.

The first topic is about Carbon Capture and Storage technology (CCS), whether it is an effective solution in reducing greenhouse gas. The opposing side argued about the danger of leakage with the carbon membrane, which can cause pollution in the ocean. Whereas the supporting side said that the carbon membrane is strong and also carbon is denser than ocean water so it will not rise up to the surface and cause pollution in the ocean.

The second topic is about Bio-Diesel Technology and its effects in the society. The opposing side argued against the use of Bio-Diesel as the food crops’ price will increase, since the amount of food will be divided between the public and the one used for fuels. The supporting side argued that dependence on fossil fuel will be diminished. The need to buy fossil fuel from volatile countries will be decreased. Therefore it will be convenient.

The third topic is about Green Chemistry and Singapore’s contribution in using bio-degradable plastic. Mainly, the supporting and opposing side argued whether bio-degradable plastic is cost effective than using normal plastic bag. According to the opposing side, it is not cost effective as consumers need to pay more to use bio-degradable plastic. The supporting side argued that Singapore’s government will subsidized to use bio-degradable plastic, thus it will not affect the consumer.

In general, the Round Table discussion is very educational. Ideas that are still unfamiliar to the students were presented with the negative and positive sides. Thus, the students became conscious about the current and future technologies. They can make decisions whether to employ these technologies in the future.