The serene landscapes of rural Japan, often depicted in idyllic paintings and photographs, mask a complex reality. For generations, farmers have cultivated the land, their livelihoods inextricably linked to the soil. However, the legacy of industrial pollution, particularly cadmium contamination, casts a long shadow over this seemingly tranquil existence. Cadmium, a heavy metal used in various industrial processes, has leached into the soil and water in some rural areas, contaminating rice paddies and vegetables. This contamination poses a serious health risk to those who consume locally grown produce, leading to chronic illnesses such as Itai-itai disease. The government has implemented measures to address the problem, including soil remediation and stricter regulations on industrial waste disposal, but the issue remains deeply rooted in the fabric of rural communities. The farmers, often facing economic hardship, find themselves caught in a difficult dilemma. They may be aware of the health risks associated with cadmium-contaminated crops, but they are also reliant on their farms for their income. Publicly acknowledging the problem could lead to a decline in sales, potentially devastating their livelihoods. This silence, born out of economic necessity, often clashes with the growing public demand for transparency and accountability concerning food safety. Furthermore, the farmers' concerns about the impact of environmental regulations on their traditional farming practices often fuel a complex debate about the limits of governmental intervention and the preservation of cultural heritage. This tension highlights a broader conflict between freedom of expression and environmental responsibility. While some argue that farmers should have the right to freely choose how they manage their farms, even if it involves some level of risk, others contend that public health should be prioritized, necessitating greater transparency and stricter regulations. The question of who bears the responsibility – the farmers, the government, or the consumers – remains a complex and highly contested issue, reflecting the intricate interplay between individual liberties, environmental protection, and socio-economic realities in rural Japan.
1. What is the central conflict presented in the passage?
2. According to the passage, what is a significant consequence of cadmium contamination in rural areas?
3. What dilemma do farmers face regarding cadmium contamination?
4. Which of the following best describes the author's tone in the passage?