Buổi 30: Ôn chu kỳ 2 – sửa lỗi tuần 4–6, Task 2 bấm giờ (năng lượng), nói lại Part 2

It is often argued that individual efforts to save energy are insignificant compared with the actions of governments and large corporations. While I agree that the most decisive changes depend on these powerful organisations, I do not believe that individuals are powerless.

There is no doubt that governments and major companies have far greater influence over energy use than any single household. Decisions about how electricity is generated, whether coal power stations are replaced by renewable sources and how cities are designed are made at a national or corporate level. A government that invests in public transport or sets strict energy standards for new buildings can reduce consumption across an entire country, something no individual could achieve. In this sense, it would be unrealistic to expect personal choices alone to solve the problem.

However, individual behaviour still matters, for two reasons. Firstly, the combined effect of millions of small actions can be considerable. If households across a city set their air conditioning a few degrees higher or switched off appliances on standby, the overall reduction in demand, particularly during peak hours, could be significant. Secondly, consumers influence the decisions of companies and politicians. When people choose energy-efficient products or support policies that promote clean energy, businesses and governments have a stronger incentive to act. If more commuters chose electric motorbikes, for example, manufacturers would have a stronger reason to offer more affordable models.

In conclusion, although governments and large companies are responsible for the most far-reaching changes, individuals can make a real contribution, both through their own consumption and through the pressure they place on those in power.