The 21st century presents humanity with a paradoxical set of challenges. While remarkable advancements in space exploration offer the tantalizing prospect of colonizing other planets, a burgeoning global population strains Earth's resources and intensifies existing environmental problems. Nowhere is this more evident than in the escalating crisis of marine pollution. The ever-increasing human population demands more food, energy, and raw materials. This heightened consumption fuels industrial activity, leading to a massive influx of plastic waste into our oceans. Discarded fishing nets, plastic bottles, and microplastics, often invisible to the naked eye, accumulate in vast gyres, harming marine life and disrupting delicate ecosystems. The scale of the problem is staggering; studies estimate that millions of tons of plastic enter our oceans annually. Simultaneously, the pursuit of space exploration, while holding immense scientific and technological potential, requires significant resources. Rocket launches consume vast amounts of fuel, contributing to atmospheric pollution. The mining of rare earth minerals essential for spacecraft construction often involves environmentally damaging practices. Furthermore, the long-term sustainability of space colonization, even if technologically feasible, raises ethical and ecological questions about resource depletion and the potential for extraterrestrial contamination. Addressing these interconnected challenges demands a multi-pronged approach. Sustainable resource management, technological innovation in waste reduction and recycling, and a global commitment to environmental protection are crucial. Furthermore, a critical evaluation of the environmental costs associated with space exploration, alongside the development of more sustainable spacefaring technologies, is essential. Ultimately, the future of humanity hinges on our ability to reconcile our aspirations for progress with the imperative to safeguard our planet and its resources for generations to come. Ignoring the urgent crisis of marine pollution while pursuing ambitious space exploration projects is unsustainable and ethically questionable. A harmonious balance between technological advancement and environmental stewardship is paramount for a sustainable future.
1. Which of the following best summarizes the main idea of the passage?
2. According to the passage, what is a significant environmental concern related to space exploration?
3. The passage suggests that a sustainable future requires:
4. What is the author's attitude towards the relationship between space exploration and marine pollution?