Microbial Fuel Cells
An Organic Way of Energy
Issues
Ethical
Because of the benefits from microbial fuel cells, many groups can gain from the technology. These groups would include about almost everyone. People that lack of energy and clean water such as the people in third world countries would gain these necessities without having to pay a great deal of money. But because it would cost to produce the device in order to harvest the energy from the cells, the people who would gain most from this form of technology would be those who would invest in them because of the popularity and money that would come from it. (1)
Legal
In order to harvest energy and produce clean water cultures of bacteria must be used. But if commercialized and distributed to the public, these MFCs cultures must be sent cryogenically to reduce the chance of the cells dying. If these cultures are to be shipped to other countries, there would be legal issues with customs. (2) Other Legal problems would deal with the fact that the FDA would have to regulate the water produced from the MFCs as well as the FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commision) regulating the energy produced from the MFCs (3)
SocIal
Socially, microbial fuel cells can affect society and as well as the quality of life greatly due to all of its benefits. Those who live in areas that don't have access to energy and clean water can now obtain it without having to pay a large amount. This technology could significantly help the areas that are constantly in severe droughts. With this technology better health care can be provided for those who didn't have access to energy before. Microbial fuel cells can better the lives of many people who don't have certain necessities such as energy and clean water. (1)
