ENGLISH MEBY

資源枯渇、アンサンブル予報、そして為替:複雑に絡み合うグローバルリスク」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The interconnectedness of global challenges is perhaps nowhere more evident than in the interplay between resource depletion, ensemble weather forecasting, and currency exchange rates. Resource scarcity, particularly of essential commodities like rare earth minerals and fossil fuels, exerts significant upward pressure on prices. This, in turn, impacts various sectors, from manufacturing to energy production, leading to increased production costs and potentially fueling inflation. Ensemble weather forecasting, a technique employing multiple weather models to generate a range of possible future weather scenarios, plays a crucial role in mitigating the risks associated with resource depletion. Accurate predictions of extreme weather events, such as droughts or floods, can help governments and businesses prepare for potential disruptions to supply chains, allowing for timely adjustments in resource allocation and production strategies. For example, anticipating a severe drought allows farmers to implement water-saving techniques and diversify their crops, reducing the overall impact on agricultural output. However, the influence of these factors extends beyond domestic economies. Fluctuations in commodity prices, driven by both resource scarcity and weather patterns, directly influence currency exchange rates. A nation heavily reliant on the export of a resource whose price has surged due to scarcity will see its currency appreciate, while a nation facing significant import costs for essential resources may experience a depreciation in its currency. This volatility creates uncertainty for international trade and investment, making it challenging for businesses to make long-term strategic decisions. Furthermore, the accuracy of ensemble weather forecasting itself is subject to limitations. The complex interplay of various atmospheric and environmental factors makes it difficult to predict weather patterns with absolute certainty, particularly over extended periods. The inherent uncertainties in these predictions translate into further complexities in managing resource allocation and anticipating the associated impacts on global markets and currency exchange rates. Consequently, policymakers need to develop robust strategies that account for both the scarcity of resources and the inherent limitations of predictive models. This intricate interplay between resource depletion, ensemble weather forecasting, and currency exchange rates highlights the need for a holistic and integrated approach to risk management on a global scale. International collaboration and the development of innovative technologies are crucial in addressing these challenges effectively.

1. According to the passage, how does resource scarcity affect currency exchange rates?

2. What is the primary role of ensemble weather forecasting in mitigating the risks of resource depletion?

3. What limitation of ensemble weather forecasting is mentioned in the passage?

4. What is the main argument the passage makes regarding the relationship between resource depletion, ensemble weather forecasting, and currency exchange rates?