Reading ComprehensionPassage:The relentless pursuit of urban development has inadvertently exacerbated the environmental challenges facing modern metropolises

I. Reading Comprehension

Passage:

The relentless pursuit of urban development has inadvertently exacerbated the environmental challenges facing modern metropolises. While technological advancements have offered a semblance of solutions, they have also introduced a new set of complexities. The proliferation of electric vehicles, for instance, has mitigated the issue of vehicular emissions, yet the long-term implications of battery disposal and the ethical sourcing of rare earth minerals remain a contentious debate. Furthermore, the emphasis on sustainable infrastructure has often been overshadowed by the exigencies of economic growth, leading to a piecemeal approach to environmental conservation.

Questions:

1. What is the central argument presented in the passage regarding urban development and environmental challenges?
2. Analyze the author's stance on the effectiveness of technological solutions in addressing environmental issues.
3. Identify and explain the potential ethical dilemmas associated with the production of electric vehicles.
4. Critique the phrase "piecemeal approach to environmental conservation" in the context of urban planning.