Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- emission /ih-MISH-uhn/
- detrimental /de-truh-MEN -tl/
- conventional /kuhn-VEN-shuh-nl/
- synthetic /sin-THET-ik/
- facilitate /fuh-SIL-i-teyt/
[noun] – the act of releasing something, especially gas or radiation, into the environment
The city implemented strict regulations to reduce carbon emissions from vehicles.
[adjective] – causing harm or damage
Excessive plastic waste can have detrimental effects on marine life and ecosystems.
[adjective] – based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed
Conventional methods of energy production can contribute significantly to climate change.
[adjective] – made by chemical synthesis, especially to imitate a natural product
Synthetic fabrics are often used in sportswear for their durability and moisture-wicking properties.
[verb] – to make an action or process easier
The new software will facilitate communication between team members in remote locations.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Sustainable agriculture has emerged as a vital strategy to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change and food security. This approach focuses on cultivating food in ways that maintain the health of the environment, economy, and society. Recent studies indicate that sustainable practices, such as crop rotation, agroforestry, and organic farming, can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing biodiversity. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), transitioning to sustainable agricultural methods could potentially increase global food production by up to 30% by 2050, thereby supporting a growing population. The increasing awareness of the detrimental effects of conventional farming practices, which often rely heavily on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, underscores the urgent need for sustainable alternatives.
Implementing sustainable agriculture poses both benefits and challenges. On one hand, sustainable methods can lead to improved soil health and reduced reliance on chemical inputs, which ultimately contributes to the ecosystem’s resilience. Conversely, the initial costs of adopting these practices may deter some farmers. Recent technological advancements, such as precision agriculture and soil health monitoring tools, offer innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. Additionally, initiatives that promote knowledge sharing and financial support for farmers transitioning to sustainable practices can play a crucial role in overcoming barriers. As experts suggest, a collaborative approach involving government bodies, agricultural organizations, and farmers is essential to facilitate this transition and ensure long-term food security in a rapidly changing climate.
Implementing sustainable agriculture poses both benefits and challenges. On one hand, sustainable methods can lead to improved soil health and reduced reliance on chemical inputs, which ultimately contributes to the ecosystem’s resilience. Conversely, the initial costs of adopting these practices may deter some farmers. Recent technological advancements, such as precision agriculture and soil health monitoring tools, offer innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. Additionally, initiatives that promote knowledge sharing and financial support for farmers transitioning to sustainable practices can play a crucial role in overcoming barriers. As experts suggest, a collaborative approach involving government bodies, agricultural organizations, and farmers is essential to facilitate this transition and ensure long-term food security in a rapidly changing climate.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever learned about sustainable farming practices, such as agroforestry or organic farming? If so, what did you find interesting or challenging about it? If not, would you be interested in learning more about these methods? Why or why not?
- Have you seen any examples of environmental initiatives in your local community, like reducing emissions or promoting sustainable agriculture? If so, what was the impact of these initiatives? If not, what kind of environmental projects do you think would benefit your area?
- Do you agree that adopting sustainable agricultural practices can significantly increase global food production by 2050?
- How can governments and agricultural organizations collaborate more effectively to support the transition to sustainable farming practices?
- How important is it for developing countries to implement sustainable farming practices compared to industrialized nations? Should they prioritize food production over environmental concerns?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- address
- society
- production
- urgent
- barrier