Japan, a nation renowned for its technological advancements and efficient infrastructure, grapples with paradoxical challenges. In certain rural areas, inadequate public transportation creates significant hardships for residents. Elderly citizens, in particular, face difficulties accessing essential services like healthcare and grocery shopping, leading to social isolation and a decline in their quality of life. This issue of inconvenient transportation is exacerbated by a shrinking workforce and declining tax revenue in these areas, making improvements difficult to implement. Simultaneously, Japan has one of the highest rates of karoshi (death from overwork) in the developed world. The demanding work culture, characterized by long hours and intense pressure to conform, takes a heavy toll on the physical and mental health of employees. While legislation exists to regulate working hours, enforcement remains a challenge, and societal expectations often prioritize productivity over well-being. This cultural emphasis on work, despite its negative consequences, underscores a complex interplay between economic pressures and societal values. Interestingly, amidst these serious issues, a growing trend towards sustainable practices has emerged. The used book market, particularly in the form of recycled books, has witnessed a surge in popularity. Driven by environmental consciousness and economic considerations, consumers are increasingly opting for pre-owned books as an affordable and eco-friendly alternative. Online platforms and used bookstores have played a pivotal role in facilitating this trend, providing convenient access to a wide range of books at significantly reduced prices. However, the environmental benefits are only realized if recycling systems are efficient and properly managed.
1. The passage primarily focuses on which of the following contrasting aspects of Japanese society?
2. According to the passage, what is a major contributing factor to the transportation difficulties in rural Japan?
3. What is the passage's main point regarding karoshi (death from overwork)?
4. The rising popularity of recycled books in Japan is primarily attributed to:
5. What crucial aspect of the environmental benefit of recycled books does the passage emphasize?