As countries develop, more and more people buy and use their own cars. Do you think the advantages of this trend for individuals outweigh the disadvantages for the environment?
弊大于利
When a nation improves, its people become wealthier, allowing them to purchase the desires of their hearts. One such desire for many is an automobile because of the convenience and safety a personal vehicle brings. Although it is nice that many people in such countries can afford a car, I believe that this trend is hurting the country and its people more than it is helping.
Admittedly, if a person has a car, it becomes more convenient to get around. They don’t have to worry about missing bus and train schedules, allowing them to sleep a bit more before heading to work or school. It is also safer to get around as they are more secure in their car compared to public transport, where they can be swindled or assaulted.
Despite such benefits to individuals, overall, this trend of an increasing number of car owners is detrimental for the environment and can cause much inconvenience. Pollution is the obvious effect of so many vehicles on the roads. The air quality in many developed countries is horrendous, affecting the health of people, animals, and plants.
Moreover, more cars mean more wastage. Cars need to be replaced after some time to ensure safety. Unfortunately, manufacturers are still not able to fully recycle all the car parts, meaning these often end up in a junkyard or landfill somewhere.
Also, these vehicles are causing serious traffic congestion on the road, especially during the rush hour, which costs commuters more time to travel to work.
To conclude, a personal car can benefit an individual to some extent, but such benefits are just temporary. The devastating effects on the environment will eventually negate such advantages. Instead, society needs to promote other safer and convenient ways to get around for the sake of both people and nature.