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AI、ビッグデータ、そして生物多様性の保全:新たな可能性と課題」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and biodiversity conservation presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges. AI-powered technologies are rapidly transforming various fields, including ecology and environmental science. Big data, generated from diverse sources such as satellite imagery, sensor networks, and citizen science initiatives, provides a wealth of information on species distribution, habitat changes, and ecological interactions. One promising application of AI and big data in biodiversity conservation is species identification and monitoring. Traditional methods of species identification are often time-consuming and require specialized expertise. However, AI algorithms, trained on vast datasets of images and sounds, can automatically identify species with high accuracy and efficiency. This enables researchers to monitor populations more effectively, track changes in biodiversity over time, and detect invasive species early on. Furthermore, AI can analyze complex ecological datasets to identify critical habitats, predict species extinction risks, and optimize conservation strategies. By identifying patterns and relationships that would be impossible for humans to discern manually, AI can inform decisions about where to allocate resources, how to design protected areas, and what conservation actions to prioritize. For instance, AI can model the impact of climate change on species distribution and predict future habitat loss, allowing for proactive conservation measures. However, the application of AI in biodiversity conservation also presents challenges. The accuracy of AI models depends heavily on the quality and quantity of training data. Biased or incomplete datasets can lead to inaccurate predictions and flawed conservation strategies. Furthermore, the computational resources required to train and run complex AI models can be substantial, raising concerns about accessibility and equity. Data privacy and security are also important considerations, especially when using citizen science data. Ultimately, the successful integration of AI and big data in biodiversity conservation requires careful consideration of ethical, social, and practical implications. It is crucial to ensure that these technologies are used responsibly and equitably, to benefit both biodiversity and human societies. The potential is immense, but realizing this potential demands careful planning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to addressing the inherent challenges.

1. According to the passage, what is one major advantage of using AI in species identification?

2. What is a significant challenge mentioned in the passage regarding the use of AI in biodiversity conservation?

3. Which of the following is NOT explicitly mentioned as a potential application of AI in biodiversity conservation in the passage?

4. The author's overall tone towards the use of AI in biodiversity conservation can best be described as: