ENGLISH MEBY

バイオマス発電と食料自給率、そして伝統芸能:持続可能な社会への模索」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The harmonious coexistence of biomass power generation, food self-sufficiency, and traditional performing arts presents a complex challenge for modern societies striving for sustainability. Japan, with its rich cultural heritage and geographically limited arable land, provides a compelling case study. Biomass power generation, utilizing agricultural and forestry waste, offers a renewable energy source, potentially mitigating reliance on fossil fuels and reducing carbon emissions. However, diverting biomass from food production raises concerns about food security and self-sufficiency. In a nation like Japan, where rice cultivation holds cultural significance and arable land is scarce, the balance between energy production and food security becomes particularly delicate. Traditional performing arts, often deeply rooted in agricultural cycles and rural life, face challenges in adapting to modern societal shifts. Many of these arts are reliant on the vitality of local communities and their agricultural practices. The potential displacement of agricultural land for biomass power plants, or the impact of energy policy on farming communities, could directly threaten the survival of these artistic traditions. Consider the case of a rural community in Japan famed for its traditional Awa Odori dance. This vibrant performance, passed down through generations, is intrinsically linked to the region's rice cultivation. A large-scale biomass power plant constructed nearby could lead to land acquisition, impacting rice production and consequently diminishing the community's ability to sustain the Awa Odori tradition. This illustrates the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate elements: energy policy, food security, and cultural preservation. The pursuit of a sustainable society requires careful consideration of these interwoven factors. A holistic approach is needed, one that balances energy needs with the preservation of food self-sufficiency and the safeguarding of cultural heritage. Innovative solutions, such as exploring alternative biomass sources or developing energy-efficient agricultural practices, are crucial to navigating this intricate relationship and creating a future that embraces both economic development and cultural richness.

1. According to the passage, what is the main challenge in Japan regarding biomass power generation?

2. What is the significance of Awa Odori dance in the context of the passage?

3. The passage suggests that a sustainable society requires:

4. What is the primary concern raised regarding the diversion of biomass from food production?