You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

 Write about the following topic:

 Innovation is often driven by the pursuit of profit and economic growth. However, some argue that it should prioritize addressing social and environmental issues. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and provide relevant examples if any from your own knowledge and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

REPORTED ON 29 FEBRUARY 2024

There are diverse opinions regarding the driving motive behind every innovation. While most innovations are the result of desires for financial gains, there are people who think that it should give importance to issues related to the society and environment. I prefer an equilibrium between the two.

To begin, it is a fact that the fundamental motive of humans today is to gain more money. When the existing modes of accumulating profit become more competitive, companies and organisations start researching on newer ways to accomplish their goals. To be precise, most multinational companies spend an exorbitant amount on product research in order to stand themselves out in the marketing sector. For example, while Nokia, one of the most popular mobile company in the past lost their market to Apple and Samsung which concentrated in launching innovative features. The scenario is much similar in the fashion, film and food industries, which keep economic growth as their prime motive behind their respective innovations.

Conversely, the reason why some suggest the significance of making social and environmental growth the priority behind innovations is that these areas are neglected. To be clearer, housing, sanitation and provision of pure water still remain challenges in many countries. Likewise, land degradation, diminishing air quality, crises from accumulation of non-biodegradable wastes haunt the governments across the globe. If these problems are not addressed scientifically, life in many countries would be pathetic in near future. It is therefore pivotal to make attempts to mitigate these issues with prime importance.

To conclude, as innovations decide the life of future generations, I believe it is important to make it touch every area which concerns the human life, not just the financial benefits.