ENGLISH MEBY

水不足、ポップカルチャー、再生可能エネルギー:持続可能な未来への模索」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

Water scarcity is a growing global crisis, impacting agriculture, industry, and daily life. This challenge is exacerbated by climate change and population growth, leading to increased competition for dwindling resources. Interestingly, the issue of water scarcity is increasingly finding its way into popular culture, often depicted in dystopian fiction or as a backdrop for narratives exploring themes of survival and resilience. Films like "Mad Max: Fury Road" and "Waterworld," though exaggerated, highlight the potential consequences of unchecked water depletion. Simultaneously, the urgent need for sustainable solutions has spurred significant advancements in renewable energy technology. Solar and wind power, for instance, require less water in their production and operation compared to traditional fossil fuels. This shift towards renewable energy offers a potential pathway towards mitigating water scarcity by reducing the strain on water resources associated with energy generation. However, the transition isn't without its complexities. The manufacturing of renewable energy technologies requires considerable resources, including water, raising questions about the overall environmental impact. Moreover, the effectiveness of renewable energy solutions depends on factors like geographical location and technological advancements. Despite these challenges, integrating narratives around water scarcity into popular culture and simultaneously investing in renewable energy technologies represent crucial steps towards building a more sustainable future. By raising awareness and driving innovation, both spheres can contribute to long-term solutions for a pressing global concern. The narrative power of pop culture, coupled with the technological advancements in renewable energy, could be the key to unlocking solutions to water scarcity and creating a world where access to clean water is a reality for all. Furthermore, the portrayal of water scarcity in pop culture isn't always negative. Some narratives use the scarcity as a catalyst for innovation, showcasing communities developing ingenious solutions for water conservation and management. This positive portrayal can inspire real-world solutions and encourage proactive measures. For instance, the depiction of efficient irrigation techniques or advanced water purification systems in fictional worlds might inspire engineers and researchers to pursue similar developments. The interaction between pop culture, technological advancement, and the pressing reality of water scarcity therefore forms a complex and dynamic relationship, offering both challenges and opportunities in the pursuit of a sustainable future.

1. According to the passage, how does popular culture contribute to addressing water scarcity?

2. What is a potential drawback of transitioning to renewable energy technologies, as mentioned in the passage?

3. The passage suggests that the relationship between pop culture, technology, and water scarcity is:

4. What is the main idea of the passage?