The 21st century presents humanity with unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Among the most pressing are securing sustainable resources, combating infectious diseases, and developing advanced technologies for various applications. These three areas—ocean resource development, vaccine innovation, and soft robotics—are intrinsically linked and hold the key to a more prosperous and secure future. Ocean resource development is crucial for meeting the growing global demand for food, energy, and minerals. However, it must be conducted sustainably to protect the delicate marine ecosystem. This requires innovative technologies for deep-sea mining, aquaculture, and renewable energy harvesting from ocean currents and waves. Failure to develop such technologies responsibly could lead to irreversible damage to marine biodiversity and disrupt vital ocean processes. Vaccine innovation is paramount in preventing and controlling infectious diseases, which pose a constant threat to global health and economic stability. The development of effective vaccines against emerging and re-emerging pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria, requires significant investment in research and development, as well as robust global collaboration. The success of vaccine development programs hinges on advancements in biotechnology, immunology, and global health infrastructure. Soft robotics, a burgeoning field, offers solutions to challenges in both ocean resource development and vaccine innovation. Soft robots, made of flexible and adaptable materials, can navigate complex and confined underwater environments for tasks like deep-sea exploration and the maintenance of underwater infrastructure. In vaccine development, they can be used for precise drug delivery, improving the efficacy and reducing side effects of vaccines. The adaptability of soft robots also allows for their deployment in diverse settings, from remote ocean environments to resource-limited healthcare facilities. The intersection of these three fields highlights the interconnectedness of global challenges. Sustainable ocean resource development requires technological innovation, which in turn fuels advancements in other fields. Similarly, vaccine innovation benefits from technological breakthroughs, enabling more effective and accessible vaccines. Soft robotics, by bridging the gap between these sectors, exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary research and development in addressing global challenges.
1. According to the passage, what is the most significant challenge associated with ocean resource development?
2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a benefit of soft robotics in the context of vaccine innovation?
3. The passage suggests that the three areas—ocean resource development, vaccine innovation, and soft robotics—are:
4. What is the central idea of the passage?