The rapid growth of smart cities presents a paradox: while technological advancements promise increased efficiency and resource management, they often exacerbate existing environmental problems. The construction of smart city infrastructure, from energy grids to transportation systems, often relies on resource-intensive materials and processes, contributing to deforestation, carbon emissions, and pollution. However, smart city initiatives also offer potential solutions to these very challenges. Data-driven approaches to urban planning can optimize energy consumption, reduce waste generation, and improve transportation efficiency. Smart grids, for example, can integrate renewable energy sources, leading to a significant reduction in reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, the deployment of smart sensors can monitor air and water quality, providing real-time data to inform environmental policies and interventions. Food banks play a crucial role in mitigating another consequence of urbanization: food insecurity. As populations concentrate in cities, access to affordable, nutritious food becomes increasingly challenging for vulnerable communities. Food banks collect surplus food from farms, restaurants, and supermarkets, redistributing it to those in need. This not only addresses immediate hunger but also reduces food waste, a major contributor to environmental degradation. In smart cities, the efficiency of food banks could be significantly improved through the use of technology, allowing for better inventory management, optimized delivery routes, and more effective coordination with food suppliers. Despite the positive potential of smart cities and food banks, it is crucial to acknowledge their limitations. The digital divide, for instance, can prevent equitable access to the benefits of smart city technologies. Similarly, the reliance of food banks on donations may not always meet the fluctuating demand for food assistance. A truly sustainable future requires integrated approaches that address social and environmental concerns simultaneously, ensuring that technological advancements benefit all members of society and minimize their environmental impact.
1. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT a potential benefit of smart cities in addressing environmental problems?
2. The passage suggests that food banks primarily address which of the following issues?
3. What is the main point the author emphasizes regarding the relationship between smart cities, food banks, and environmental sustainability?
4. The passage mentions the "digital divide" as a limitation of which aspect of sustainable urban development?