ENGLISH MEBY

産業ロボットと持続可能な社会:気候変動とエネルギー転換への貢献」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The relationship between industrial robots, climate change, and energy transition is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, the manufacturing of robots themselves consumes significant energy and resources, contributing to carbon emissions. The extraction of raw materials, the manufacturing process, and the eventual disposal or recycling of robots all leave an environmental footprint. However, robots also present significant opportunities for mitigating climate change and facilitating the transition to renewable energy sources. In the renewable energy sector, robots are increasingly used in the construction and maintenance of solar and wind farms. Their precision and efficiency enable faster installation, reduce labor costs, and improve the overall lifespan of renewable energy infrastructure. Robots can also contribute to the development of more efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions. Furthermore, robots play a crucial role in improving the efficiency and sustainability of various manufacturing processes. Through automation, robots reduce waste, optimize energy consumption, and improve the quality of products. This leads to a decrease in overall environmental impact compared to traditional, less efficient manufacturing methods. They can also be used in environmentally friendly manufacturing processes such as the production of electric vehicles and components for renewable energy technologies. Despite these benefits, challenges remain. The widespread adoption of robots requires substantial investment in infrastructure and training. Furthermore, ensuring responsible sourcing of materials and ethical disposal practices for end-of-life robots is crucial to prevent environmental damage. Addressing these challenges is essential to fully harness the potential of robots for creating a more sustainable future. The development of more energy-efficient robots and the exploration of sustainable manufacturing techniques are paramount.

1. According to the passage, what is a major environmental concern related to industrial robots?

2. How do industrial robots contribute to the transition to renewable energy sources?

3. What is one challenge hindering the widespread adoption of robots for a more sustainable future?

4. Which of the following best summarizes the passage's main argument?