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-===== 6. Ethical and Deontological Concerns =====+===== 6. Ethical and Deontological Concerns ===== 
  
-==== Introduction ==== +This chapter explains the role of ethics in engineering and briefly introduces deontological ethics as a way to understand moral responsibility in decision-making. It also discusses engineering ethics and the standards that guide professional behavior, including codes created by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). These principles affect engineering decisions, design processes, and professional actions [(NSPE)].
  
-This chapter examines the role of ethics in both moral philosophy and engineering practice. It begins by introducing deontological ethics, a duty-based approach to moral reasoning that focuses on following universal moral principles when deciding what is right or wrong. The discussion presents key ideas developed by Immanuel Kant, including moral obligation and the categorical imperative. It also briefly considers recent scientific perspectives on moral decision-making.+For Screen2Green, ethics is especially important because the project combines electronics, water systems, user behavior tracking, and plant care. This chapter focuses on the main ethical issues related to the project, such as safety, responsible behavior design, data privacy, professional competence, sales and marketing ethics, environmental responsibility, plant welfare, and liability. These topics help make sure that the final product is safe, responsible, and sustainable for both users and the environment.
  
-The chapter then moves to engineering ethics and discusses the standards and responsibilities that guide professional conduct. It reviews established codes of ethics, such as those developed by the National Society of Professional Engineers, and explains how these principles influence engineering decisions, design processes, and professional behavior. Finally, the chapter highlights why ethics is important in engineering, particularly in relation to safety, quality, public trust, sustainability, and the protection of both organizations and professionals. 
  
-Deontological ethics, often described as duty-based ethics, is a branch of moral philosophy that emphasizes following moral rules and obligations when judging whether an action is right or wrong. The term comes from the Greek words “deon” (duty) and “logos” (study or reasoning). According to this view, some actions are considered morally wrong in themselves, regardless of the outcomes they may produce [(mohn2022)].+==== 6.1 Engineering Ethics ====
  
-This approach was most notably developed by Immanuel Kant in the 18th century through the concept of the categorical imperative, which stresses that moral rules should apply universally. Although deontology has traditionally been studied in philosophy, recent research has also provided useful insights into the psychological and neurological processes involved in moral decision-making [(dilbar2024)]. +Engineering ethics refers to the principles and responsibilities that engineers are expected to follow in their professional work. These principles are important because engineering decisions can directly affect people’s safety, daily lives, and the environment. Following ethical standards helps ensure that projects are designed and carried out in a safe, reliable, and responsible way.
-==== Engineering Ethics ====  +
-Engineering ethics define the standards to which all engineers are held accountable, guiding them to act in a morally and socially responsible manner. Adhering to these principles is essential to ensure public safety, maintain the integrity of the profession, and deliver high-quality projects that meet established standards.+
  
-These ethical guidelines require engineers to consider not only the interests of their company, but also those of clients and the public when making decisions. They also influence how systems are designed and implemented, ensuring that they are safe, reliable, and aligned with professional standards, thereby fostering trust and respect for the engineering profession within society [(alisatul2025)]. +Engineers are expected to consider not only the goals of their company, but also the needs of clients, users, and the wider public when making decisions. Ethical principles also influence how systems are designed, tested, and implemented, helping to reduce risks and improve reliability. By following professional standards, engineers can help build public trust and maintain the credibility of the profession [(alisatul2025)]. 
  
-=== Understanding the Engineering Code of Ethics === 
  
-The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) has a code of ethics that is a great example of the type of standards professionals are held to. +=== 6.1.1 Understanding the Engineering Code of Ethics ===
-Their code says all engineering professionals shall.+
  
-  - Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public +A well-known example of engineering ethics is the code of ethics developed by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). This code outlines the main responsibilities that engineers are expected to follow in their professional work.
-  - Perform services only in areas of their competence +
-  - Issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner +
-  - Act for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees +
-  - Avoid deceptive acts +
-  - Conduct themselves honorably, responsibly, ethically, and lawfully so as to enhance the honor, reputation, and usefulness of the profession+
  
-NSPE outlines additional professional obligations and details in their code. These further reinforce the importance of ethical behavior, ensuring that engineers uphold not only technical standards but also the public’s trust. Clearly, ethics in engineering aren’t just guidelines, they are essential to the integrity of the profession [(vector2025)].+According to the NSPE engineers should prioritize public safety, health, and welfare, and only carry out work in areas where they have the necessary knowledge and skills. They are also expected to communicate honestly, avoid deceptive actions, and act responsibly toward clients, employers, and the public.
  
-=== The Importance of Ethics in Engineering === +In addition to these core principles, the code includes further professional obligations that help guide ethical decision-making in different situations. These standards are important because they help engineers maintain professional integrity and protect public trust in the engineering field [(vector2025)].
-  - Promotes Safety -- One of the most critical roles of engineering ethics is to promote public safety. According to the NSPE Code of Ethics, engineers must prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of the public in all aspects of their work. This includes reporting unsafe conditions, ensuring compliance with standards, and taking corrective action when necessary. Ethical responsibility also extends to the workplace. Prioritizing safety helps prevent accidents and injuries, which not only protects individuals but also reduces costs and improves productivity. For example, workplace injuries can result in significant financial losses for organizations, demonstrating that safety is both an ethical and economic priority. +
-  - Enhances Quality -- Engineering ethics play a vital role in ensuring high-quality work. Engineers are expected to perform tasks that align with their knowledge and expertise, which helps maintain professional standards and reduces the likelihood of errors. In leadership roles, ethical responsibility includes supporting team members and enabling them to perform effectively. Leaders must adopt a broader perspective, focusing on coordination, motivation, and overall organizational success. By fostering an environment where specialists can excel, organizations can achieve higher-quality outcomes. +
-  - Improves Public Opinion -- Ethical behavior helps improve public perception of the engineering profession. Engineers are required to communicate honestly and objectively, avoiding misleading or biased information. Transparent communication builds trust and strengthens the relationship between engineers and society. As engineering decisions often affect public safety, ethical conduct is essential for maintaining credibility. Acting responsibly in public interactions demonstrates professionalism and reinforces confidence in the industry. +
-  - Safeguards the Company’s Interests -- Adhering to ethical standards helps protect the interests of organizations. Engineers must maintain confidentiality, avoid conflicts of interest, and act with integrity in professional situations. Unethical behavior, such as sharing sensitive information or damaging colleagues’ reputations, can harm both individuals and companies. By following ethical guidelines, engineers contribute to a fair and trustworthy work environment, supporting long-term organizational success. +
-  - Fosters Sustainability -- Engineering ethics encourage professionals to consider the long-term impact of their work on society and the environment. Sustainable practices not only benefit the planet but also enhance an organization’s reputation and financial performance. The concept of the “triple bottom line”—focusing on people, planet, and profit—highlights the importance of balancing economic success with social and environmental responsibility. Ethical engineers integrate these considerations into their decision-making processes. +
-  - Protects Other Engineers -- Engineering ethics promote fairness and respect among professionals. Guidelines discourage unethical behavior such as false criticism or actions that damage another engineer’s reputation. These principles help create a supportive and collaborative work environment. Maintaining ethical relationships within teams improves productivity and prevents conflicts, contributing to a healthier workplace culture. +
-  - Secures Company Assets -- Ethics also play a key role in protecting intellectual property and organizational assets. Engineers must respect ownership rights related to designs, inventions, and confidential information. Failure to do so can result in legal and financial consequences. By acknowledging and protecting these assets, engineers help prevent misuse and safeguard the organization’s investments [(esther2023)]. +
-=== Safety of the system ===+
  
-Safety is a primary concern in engineering design. The system combines electronics, water, and plant care, which introduces potential risks such as water leakage, electrical malfunction, or damage to surrounding objects. To minimize these risks, the design must ensure proper water containment and reliable system components. Ensuring safe operation protects both the user and the environment in which the system is placed. Such systems rely on sensors and automated control technologies to monitor environmental conditions, such as soil moisture, in real time [(laura2020)],[(carlos2019)]. While these technologies improve efficiency and convenience, they also introduce safety challenges due to the interaction between water and electronic components. 
  
-== System Characteristics and Safety Risks ==+=== 6.1.2 The Importance of Ethics in Engineering ===
  
-The system uses sensors, microcontrollers, and water supply devices to automatically regulate irrigation based on real-time data [(laura2020)]. Although this automation enhances efficiency, research highlights several important risk factors. +Ethics plays an important role in engineering because engineering decisions can directly affect people, organizations, and the environment. One of the main reasons ethics is important is safety. Engineers are responsible for making sure that the systems they design and develop do not create unnecessary risks for users or the public. Following ethical standards helps prevent accidents, reduce harm, and create safer working environments.
-Sensor accuracy and system reliability are critical, as measurement errors or malfunctions can lead to incorrect irrigation control. This may result in overwatering or underwatering, which not only reduces system reliability but also negatively affects plant growth and health[(carlos2019)]. In addition, the system is sensitive to environmental conditions. Moisture or water ingress can degrade electronic performance and cause system failure, further reducing overall reliability [(laura2020)]. +
-According to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), protection against water and solid ingress is defined using the IP (Ingress Protection) rating system, which provides an important guideline for designing systems exposed to water [(IEC60529)].+
  
-== Safety Design Strategies ==+Ethics is also closely related to the quality of engineering work. Engineers are expected to work within their area of knowledge and take responsibility for the reliability of their designs. This helps reduce mistakes and improves the overall quality of projects. In professional settings, ethical behavior also supports teamwork, good communication, and responsible leadership.
  
-To address these risks, several safety design strategies should be implemented. +Another important aspect is public trust. Engineers often work on systems that affect people’s daily lives, so honest communication and responsible decision-making are essential. Acting ethically helps build confidence in both the engineer and the profession as a whole.
-First, proper separation and protection are essential. Water and electronic components should be physically separated, and waterproof enclosures or sealed structures should be used to prevent moisture damage. Applying appropriate IP-rated protection further enhances system safety [(IEC60529)]. +
-Second, reliable sensing and control are necessary for stable operation. Accurate soil moisture sensors and continuous monitoring systems allow precise irrigation control and early detection of abnormal conditions, improving both performance and safety [(carlos2019)]. +
-Finally, fail-safe mechanisms should be incorporated. The system should automatically shut down under abnormal conditions to prevent damage. Threshold-based control can help avoid overwatering, and the system should be designed to maintain a safe state even in the event of failure.+
  
-=== Responsible behaviour design ===+In addition, ethics supports sustainability and long-term responsibility. Engineers should consider not only short-term project goals, but also the wider social and environmental impact of their work. This includes using resources responsibly and thinking about how current decisions may affect future users.
  
-Responsible behaviour design involves creating systems that influence user actions while respecting ethical principles such as autonomy and well-being. As digital technologies increasingly shape user behavior, it is essential to ensure that such systems promote positive change without undermining users’ ability to make voluntary decisions.+Finally, ethical standards help protect both organizations and professionals. They support fair treatment, respect for intellectual property, confidentiality, and professional integrity. By following ethical principles, engineers can contribute to safer systems, stronger organizations, and more responsible innovation [(esther2023)].
  
-== Ethical Persuasion and User Well-being == 
  
-Since the system is intended to influence user behavior, it must avoid manipulative or harmful persuasive techniques. Research on persuasive technology highlights ethical concerns related to manipulation, coercion, and the potential undermining of user autonomy. The purpose is to encourage healthier digital habits rather than create pressure or negative emotional responses. For example, the system should not induce excessive guilt or stress if users exceed their screen-time limits, as creating pressure or exploiting vulnerabilities may undermine user autonomy and raise ethical concerns in persuasive technologies [(naomi2020)].+=== 6.1.3 Safety of the system ===
  
-== Motivation and Behaviour Change ==+Safety is one of the most important considerations in engineering design. This system combines electronics, water, and plant care, which creates possible risks such as water leakage, electrical faults, or damage to nearby objects. To reduce these risks, the design needs to include proper water containment and reliable components. Safe operation is important not only for the user, but also for the environment where the system is used.
  
-Research in motivation theory further supports non-controlling approaches to behavior change. Self-Determination Theory states that autonomy is a fundamental psychological need, and that environments which support autonomy enhance motivation and well-being [(CSDT)]. Self-Determination Theory explains that external pressure can reduce the quality of motivation, whereas self-endorsed behavior leads to more sustained engagement. This suggests that systems should support users’ autonomy rather than rely on controlling strategies.+The system relies on sensors and automated control technologies to monitor conditions such as soil moisture in real time [(laura2020)][(carlos2019)]. While this improves convenience and efficiency, it also creates challenges because water and electronic components are used together.
  
-== System Design Considerations == 
  
-Additionally, the system must ensure that any behavioral consequences affecting the plant remain within safe biological limits. The plant should not be harmed as part of the behavioral mechanism, and the design must prioritize plant health even when attempting to motivate behavioral change. While persuasive technology research primarily focuses on human users, designers are responsible for ensuring that system outcomes do not result in harm. Therefore, any interaction affecting the plant must remain within conditions that allow it to survive and function properly, ensuring that no harm is introduced through system operation.+== 6.1.3.1 System Characteristics and Safety Risks ==
  
-=== Data privacy ===+The system uses sensors, microcontrollers, and water supply devices to control irrigation automatically based on real-time data [(laura2020)]. This improves efficiency, but it also introduces some important risks.
  
-The system collects information related to screen-time usage through an associated application. Ethical data management requires that users are informed about what data is collected, how it is stored, and how it is used. Users should provide informed consent before data collection begins, and the system should minimize data storage whenever possible. Sensitive personal information should not be collected unless strictly necessary for the system's functionality. +One key issue is sensor accuracy and overall system reliability. If the sensor gives incorrect readings or the system malfunctions, the plant may receive too much or too little water. This can reduce system performance and negatively affect plant health [(carlos2019)]. 
-Despite these principles, security and privacy challenges can arise when such systems are implemented in home-based smart farming environments. These systems rely on low-cost Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which often have limited computational power and weak security features, making them vulnerable to cyber threats.+
  
-== Threats ==+Another important risk is moisture exposure. Since the system operates in a humid environment, water ingress can damage electronic components, reduce performance, and lead to system failure [(laura2020)]. For this reason, protection against water and dust is an important part of the design. The International Electrotechnical Commission defines protection levels through the Ingress Protection (IP)rating system, which is widely used as a guideline for products exposed to water [(IEC60529)].
  
-These vulnerabilities can be grouped into several key threat categories. Screen-time data is particularly sensitive because it reflects users’ daily routines. If accessed without authorization, it can reveal personal habits and schedules. In addition, home smart farming systems continuously collect environmental data such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and light levels to support plant growth. Although this data appears non-sensitive, it can indirectly reveal user presence and lifestyle patterns when analyzed over time. 
-These systems are especially vulnerable to attacks such as unauthorized access, data interception, and manipulation of sensor data. For example, altering soil moisture readings can lead to incorrect irrigation, which may negatively affect plant health. Such risks are increased by the lack of strong encryption, secure authentication, and regular updates in many IoT devices [(rodrigo2013)],[(luis2019)]. 
-However, applying strong encryption to all data transmissions is not always practical. In resource-constrained IoT devices, full encryption can significantly increase energy consumption and reduce system efficiency. This highlights the trade-off between security and energy efficiency, requiring a balanced approach [(jaewook2017)]. 
  
-== Strategies ==+== 6.1.3.2 Safety Design Strategies ==
  
-To address these challenges, several strategies can be implemented. +To reduce these risks, several safety measures should be included in the design.
-  - Lightweight cryptographic methods should be used to provide adequate security while minimizing energy usage. +
-  - Data prioritization should be applied: sensitive data such as screen-time information should receive stronger protection, while less sensitive environmental data can use lighter security mechanisms. +
-  - Edge computing should be utilized to process data locally, reducing the need for constant data transmission and lowering both security risks and energy consumption. Additionally, batch data transmission can reduce the frequency of communication and further conserve energy. +
-  - Transparency is essential. Users should be able to clearly understand how their data is collected and used. This can be achieved through user dashboards, real-time notifications, and simplified privacy policies, which support informed consent and user control. +
-  - Regular software updates, strong authentication mechanisms, and anomaly detection systems should be implemented to maintain system security. Detecting unusual patterns in sensor data, such as abnormal soil moisture levels, can help identify potential attacks or system failures. +
-=== Professional competence ===+
  
-Professional competence refers to the ability of engineers to carry out their work responsibly and effectively while adhering to established standards and ethical principles. Engineers are expected to follow professional standards and codes of ethics. This includes designing systems that prioritize user safety, privacy, and reliability. Following recognized engineering principles ensures that the system is developed in a responsible and systematic manner, and that potential risks are identified and mitigated during the design process.+First, water and electronic components should be clearly separated. Waterproof enclosures, sealed structures, and proper layout design can help prevent moisture from reaching sensitive parts. Using suitable IP-rated protection can further improve safety [(IEC60529)].
  
-In addition, professional competence involves understanding the limits of one’s expertise and seeking appropriate support or collaboration when necessary. Engineers must engage in continuous learning to keep up with rapidly evolving technologies and ensure that their knowledge remains up to date. Furthermore, thorough testing and validation are required to confirm that the system operates correctly under various conditions.+Second, the system should use reliable sensors and continuous monitoring to maintain stable operation. Accurate soil moisture readings are important for precise irrigation control and for detecting unusual conditions early [(carlos2019)].
  
-By maintaining professional competence, engineers can enhance the quality and performance of their systems while fulfilling their ethical responsibility to protect users and maintain public trust.+Finally, fail-safe features should be included. The system should be able to stop automatically if an abnormal condition is detected, helping to prevent damage. Threshold-based control can also reduce the risk of overwatering, and the design should allow the system to remain in a safe state even if a failure occurs. 
 + 
 + 
 +=== 6.1.4 Responsible behaviour design === 
 + 
 +Responsible behaviour design means creating systems that can influence user actions while still respecting important ethical values such as autonomy and well-being. As digital technologies become more involved in daily life, it is important to make sure that these systems encourage positive habits without limiting users’ freedom to make their own choices. 
 + 
 + 
 +== 6.1.4.1 Ethical Persuasion and User Well-being == 
 + 
 +Since this system is designed to influence user behaviour, it should avoid persuasive methods that feel manipulative or harmful. Research on persuasive technology shows that systems can raise ethical concerns when they create pressure, exploit users’ weaknesses, or reduce their sense of control [(naomi2020)]. 
 + 
 +For this reason, the goal of Screen2Green should be to support healthier digital habits in a positive way, rather than making users feel guilty or stressed when they exceed their screen-time limits. A design that creates too much pressure could reduce users’ sense of autonomy and make the system less ethical. 
 + 
 + 
 +== 6.1.4.2 Motivation and Behaviour Change == 
 + 
 +This idea is also supported by motivation research. According to the Self-Determination Theory, autonomy is an important psychological need, and people are more likely to stay motivated when they feel that their actions are self-directed [(CSDT)]. 
 + 
 +This suggests that the system should help users make healthier choices by encouraging awareness and reflection, rather than using strict or controlling methods. Supporting users’ sense of choice can lead to more meaningful and lasting behaviour change. 
 + 
 + 
 +== 6.1.4.3 System Design Considerations == 
 + 
 +In addition, the system should make sure that any effects on the plant stay within safe biological limits. The plant should never be harmed as part of the behaviour change process. Even if the system is designed to motivate users, plant health must remain a priority. 
 + 
 +Although most persuasive technology research focuses on users, designers also have a responsibility to consider the wider effects of the system. In this project, that means making sure that any interaction linked to the plant still allows it to grow in healthy and safe conditions. 
 + 
 + 
 +=== 6.1.5 Data privacy === 
 + 
 +The system collects screen-time data through an associated application. Because this information is linked to users’ daily habits, ethical data management is an important part of the design. Users should clearly understand what data is being collected, how it will be stored, and how it will be used. Data collection should only begin after informed consent is given, and the system should avoid collecting sensitive personal information unless it is necessary for the system to work properly. 
 + 
 +Even with these principles, privacy and security challenges can still arise when this type of system is used in a home smart farming environment. Many of these systems rely on low-cost Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which often have limited processing power and weaker built-in security. This can make them more vulnerable to cyber threats. 
 + 
 + 
 +== 6.1.5.1 Threats == 
 + 
 +One of the main concerns is the sensitivity of screen-time data. If this information is accessed without permission, it may reveal users’ routines, habits, and daily schedules. In addition, the system also collects environmental data such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and light levels to support plant growth. 
 + 
 +Although this environmental data may seem less sensitive, it can still reveal patterns about user behaviour or home occupancy when collected over time. Because of this, the system may be exposed to risks such as unauthorized access, data interception, or manipulation of sensor readings. For example, false soil moisture data could cause incorrect irrigation, which may harm plant health and reduce system reliability [(rodrigo2013)][(luis2019)]. 
 + 
 +At the same time, improving security in IoT systems is not always simple. Strong encryption can improve protection, but in low-power devices it may also increase energy use and reduce system efficiency. This creates an important trade-off between security and energy consumption, which needs to be considered carefully [(jaewook2017)]. 
 + 
 + 
 +== 6.1.5.2 Strategies == 
 + 
 +To reduce these risks, several practical strategies can be applied. 
 + 
 +First, lightweight encryption methods can help protect important data while keeping energy use low. A balanced approach should also be used for data protection. More sensitive information, such as screen-time data, should have stronger security, while less sensitive environmental data can use lighter protection methods. 
 + 
 +Second, edge computing can improve both privacy and efficiency by processing data locally instead of constantly sending it to external servers. Sending data in batches rather than continuously can also reduce communication frequency and save energy. 
 + 
 +Finally, transparency and system maintenance are essential. Users should be able to easily understand how their data is collected and used through clear privacy settings, simple policies, and notifications. Regular software updates, strong authentication methods, and anomaly detection systems should also be included to improve overall security. For example, unusual soil moisture patterns could help detect possible cyberattacks or system faults before serious problems occur. 
 + 
 + 
 +=== 6.1.6 Professional competence === 
 + 
 +Professional competence means that engineers have the knowledge and skills needed to carry out their work safely, responsibly, and effectively. In engineering projects, this also means following professional standards and ethical principles throughout the design process. 
 + 
 +For this system, professional competence is important because the design involves electronics, water, sensors, and user-related data. Engineers need to make sure that the system is safe, reliable, and suitable for its intended use. This includes considering user safety, protecting privacy, and reducing possible risks during both development and operation. 
 + 
 +Professional competence also means recognizing the limits of one’s own knowledge. If a problem goes beyond an engineer’s expertise, it is important to seek support, collaborate with others, or consult relevant technical standards. This helps reduce mistakes and improves the overall quality of the system. 
 + 
 +In addition, engineers should continue updating their knowledge as technologies develop. Since systems like this depend on sensors, automated control, and digital applications, keeping up with new technologies is important for making informed design decisions. 
 + 
 +Finally, proper testing and validation are essential. The system should be tested under different conditions to make sure it works correctly and safely. By maintaining professional competence, engineers can improve system performance while also meeting their ethical responsibility to protect users and maintain public trust. 
 + 
 + 
 +==== 6.2 Sales and Marketing Ethics ====
  
-==== Sales and Marketing Ethics ====  
 Sales and marketing ethics are important because the way a product is presented can affect how users understand it and how they use it. This is especially important for Screen2Green, since the product is meant to help users build healthier screen-time habits. Because Screen2Green uses technology, user feedback, and behavior change features, it is important to present the product in a clear and honest way. Users should understand what the system does, what its limits are, and what they can expect from using it. Sales and marketing ethics are important because the way a product is presented can affect how users understand it and how they use it. This is especially important for Screen2Green, since the product is meant to help users build healthier screen-time habits. Because Screen2Green uses technology, user feedback, and behavior change features, it is important to present the product in a clear and honest way. Users should understand what the system does, what its limits are, and what they can expect from using it.
  
-This section discusses the main ethical issues related to how Screen2Green should be presented to users. It focuses on honest communication, avoiding manipulative marketing, being clear about how the system works, and considering younger users who may be more sensitive to digital influence.. +This section discusses the main ethical issues related to how Screen2Green should be presented to users. It focuses on honest communication, avoiding manipulative marketing, being clear about how the system works, and considering younger users who may be more sensitive to digital influence. 
-=== Honest communication ===+ 
 + 
 +=== 6.2.1 Honest communication === 
 The product should be marketed with clear and honest communication about its functionality and purpose. Marketing materials should accurately describe what the device does, how it influences user behavior, and what benefits users can realistically expect. Clear communication is especially important in digital well-being products, as users need to understand both the purpose and the limits of the system in order to trust it and use it properly [(merlijn2022)]. The product should be marketed with clear and honest communication about its functionality and purpose. Marketing materials should accurately describe what the device does, how it influences user behavior, and what benefits users can realistically expect. Clear communication is especially important in digital well-being products, as users need to understand both the purpose and the limits of the system in order to trust it and use it properly [(merlijn2022)].
-=== Avoiding manipulative marketing ===+ 
 + 
 +=== 6.2.2 Avoiding manipulative marketing === 
 Since the product focuses on digital well-being and screen-time awareness, it is important to avoid marketing strategies that create anxiety, guilt, or fear about technology use. The aim of Screen2Green is to support healthier habits in a positive way, not to pressure users or make them feel bad about their behavior. Research on persuasive technologies shows that overly controlling designs can reduce user autonomy and may even cause stress [(abdul2024)]. Since the product focuses on digital well-being and screen-time awareness, it is important to avoid marketing strategies that create anxiety, guilt, or fear about technology use. The aim of Screen2Green is to support healthier habits in a positive way, not to pressure users or make them feel bad about their behavior. Research on persuasive technologies shows that overly controlling designs can reduce user autonomy and may even cause stress [(abdul2024)].
  
-=== Transparency about functionality ===+ 
 +=== 6.2.3 Transparency about functionality === 
 Users should clearly understand how the system works before using it. This includes how screen time is monitored, how the plant responds to user behavior, and what type of data is collected. Providing this information clearly helps users make informed decisions and increases trust in the product [(merlijn2022)]. Users should clearly understand how the system works before using it. This includes how screen time is monitored, how the plant responds to user behavior, and what type of data is collected. Providing this information clearly helps users make informed decisions and increases trust in the product [(merlijn2022)].
-=== Target users ===+ 
 + 
 +=== 6.2.4 Target users === 
 If the product is used by children or teenagers, additional ethical considerations are needed. Younger users are generally more vulnerable to persuasive technologies and may be more easily influenced by digital feedback systems. For this reason, the system should avoid strong behavioral pressure and include suitable safeguards if designed for younger users [(diana2025)]. If the product is used by children or teenagers, additional ethical considerations are needed. Younger users are generally more vulnerable to persuasive technologies and may be more easily influenced by digital feedback systems. For this reason, the system should avoid strong behavioral pressure and include suitable safeguards if designed for younger users [(diana2025)].
-==== Environmental Ethics ==== + 
 + 
 +==== 6.3 Environmental Ethics ==== 
 Environmental ethics is an important part of the Screen2Green project because the system is not only a digital product, but also something that directly interacts with a living plant. Since the project uses electronic parts, sensors, and a watering system, it is important to think about how the design may affect the environment. This is not only about reducing the electricity used by the device, but also about choosing suitable materials, making the product last longer, and making sure the plant is cared for properly. A good design should avoid creating unnecessary waste and should allow parts to be repaired or replaced when needed. Because the project is meant to encourage better daily habits, it should also reflect responsible choices in its own design. For this reason, environmental ethics in Screen2Green focuses on energy use, material selection, and plant welfare to make sure the system is practical, sustainable, and respectful of the environment. Environmental ethics is an important part of the Screen2Green project because the system is not only a digital product, but also something that directly interacts with a living plant. Since the project uses electronic parts, sensors, and a watering system, it is important to think about how the design may affect the environment. This is not only about reducing the electricity used by the device, but also about choosing suitable materials, making the product last longer, and making sure the plant is cared for properly. A good design should avoid creating unnecessary waste and should allow parts to be repaired or replaced when needed. Because the project is meant to encourage better daily habits, it should also reflect responsible choices in its own design. For this reason, environmental ethics in Screen2Green focuses on energy use, material selection, and plant welfare to make sure the system is practical, sustainable, and respectful of the environment.
  
-=== Energy use ===+ 
 +=== 6.3.1 Energy use ===
  
 Modern digital technologies consume significant amounts of energy. Smartphones, applications and online services all depend on servers and data centers that operate continuously and contribute to carbon emissions because they require constant electricity. Moreover, Modern digital technologies consume significant amounts of energy. Smartphones, applications and online services all depend on servers and data centers that operate continuously and contribute to carbon emissions because they require constant electricity. Moreover,
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 From an ethical perspective, Screen2Green aligns with: From an ethical perspective, Screen2Green aligns with:
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   * Utilitarianism: reduced energy use benefits society and the planet   * Utilitarianism: reduced energy use benefits society and the planet
   * Deontology:  individuals and developers have a duty to minimize environmental harm   * Deontology:  individuals and developers have a duty to minimize environmental harm
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 +=== 6.3.2 Materials ===
  
-=== Materials === 
 Ethical product design also includes thinking about the materials used in the device, how long they last, and whether they can be repaired or recycled. A modular design with replaceable parts can make the product last longer and reduce environmental impact. Ethical product design also includes thinking about the materials used in the device, how long they last, and whether they can be repaired or recycled. A modular design with replaceable parts can make the product last longer and reduce environmental impact.
  
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 The material choice was also considered in the life cycle analysis in order to reduce waste and improve long-term durability. The material choice was also considered in the life cycle analysis in order to reduce waste and improve long-term durability.
-=== Plant welfare ===+ 
 + 
 +=== 6.3.3 Plant welfare === 
 Since the plant plays a role in the behavior feedback system, ethical considerations must also include plant welfare. The plant should not be exposed to harmful conditions as part of the system. Any changes to watering or light levels must stay within safe biological limits to make sure the plant remains healthy. Since the plant plays a role in the behavior feedback system, ethical considerations must also include plant welfare. The plant should not be exposed to harmful conditions as part of the system. Any changes to watering or light levels must stay within safe biological limits to make sure the plant remains healthy.
  
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 Previous studies on smart irrigation systems also suggest that sensor-based monitoring can help improve watering accuracy and support healthier plant growth [(laura2020)]. For this reason, the system should also include clear safety limits and allow users to water the plant manually when needed, so that the plant’s health is always more important than the feedback system. Previous studies on smart irrigation systems also suggest that sensor-based monitoring can help improve watering accuracy and support healthier plant growth [(laura2020)]. For this reason, the system should also include clear safety limits and allow users to water the plant manually when needed, so that the plant’s health is always more important than the feedback system.
-==== Liability ==== + 
 + 
 +==== 6.4 Liability ====  
 Liability is an important issue in the Screen2Green project because the system combines electronics, water, and digital monitoring. Since these parts work together, problems such as sensor errors, water leakage, software malfunction, or wrong irrigation decisions could affect the user, nearby objects, or the plant itself. Liability is an important issue in the Screen2Green project because the system combines electronics, water, and digital monitoring. Since these parts work together, problems such as sensor errors, water leakage, software malfunction, or wrong irrigation decisions could affect the user, nearby objects, or the plant itself.
  
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 Overall, liability in this project means reducing risks as much as possible through safe design, clear communication, and responsible system use. Overall, liability in this project means reducing risks as much as possible through safe design, clear communication, and responsible system use.
-==== Summary ====+ 
 + 
 +==== 6.5 Summary ==== 
 This chapter looked at the main ethical and deontological issues related to Screen2Green, such as safety, user privacy, behaviour design, environmental impact, plant welfare, and liability. Through this analysis, the team understood that the system should not only work properly, but also be safe, clear to users, and responsible in the way it affects both people and plants. This chapter looked at the main ethical and deontological issues related to Screen2Green, such as safety, user privacy, behaviour design, environmental impact, plant welfare, and liability. Through this analysis, the team understood that the system should not only work properly, but also be safe, clear to users, and responsible in the way it affects both people and plants.
  
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 This chapter also helped guide the team’s technical decisions and gives a clear basis for the next chapter, which explains how these ideas were applied in the system design and development process. This chapter also helped guide the team’s technical decisions and gives a clear basis for the next chapter, which explains how these ideas were applied in the system design and development process.
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  • report/eth.1776025965.txt.gz
  • Last modified: 2026/04/12 21:32
  • by team1