The intricate art of Japanese woodblock printing, a tradition spanning centuries, relies on natural pigments derived from plants and minerals. This age-old craft, with its delicate beauty and profound connection to nature, stands in stark contrast to the pressing realities of modern environmental challenges. The vibrant colors of a ukiyo-e print, for instance, are now threatened by the very oceans that once provided the raw materials for its creation. Ocean pollution, particularly plastic waste, presents a devastating threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Microplastics, invisible to the naked eye, are ingested by marine life, entering the food chain and ultimately affecting human health. The chemical pollutants leaching from plastics also contaminate water sources, harming delicate coral reefs and impacting the biodiversity of the ocean, including the shellfish and algae that historically served as sources of pigment for traditional Japanese art forms. Meanwhile, humanity's exploration of space raises its own set of environmental concerns. The increasing number of defunct satellites and space debris orbiting Earth poses a significant risk to operational spacecraft and future space missions. The uncontrolled re-entry of these objects into the atmosphere can also cause environmental damage on Earth. Similar to the pollution affecting oceans, the accumulation of space junk represents a legacy of unsustainable practices that needs urgent attention. The juxtaposition of these seemingly disparate issues—the preservation of a centuries-old artistic tradition, the battle against ocean pollution, and the need for responsible space exploration—highlights the interconnectedness of environmental challenges in the 21st century. Addressing these issues requires a global commitment to sustainability, innovation, and a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between human progress and the well-being of our planet and its surrounding environment. Our artistic heritage and our future in space are inextricably linked to the health of our oceans and, more broadly, the health of our planet.
1. According to the passage, what is one way in which ocean pollution directly threatens Japanese woodblock printing?
2. The author uses the contrast between Japanese woodblock printing and ocean pollution to emphasize which point?
3. What is the primary concern regarding space debris, as discussed in the passage?
4. Which of the following best summarizes the author's call to action?