The Earth's environment faces many challenges today. Air pollution, deforestation, and water scarcity are all critical issues affecting the planet. In urban areas, industrial activities and vehicle emissions contribute to high levels of air pollution, which can lead to respiratory problems for residents. According to the World Health Organization, around 90% of people worldwide breathe polluted air.
Deforestation is another significant problem. Large areas of forest are being cut down for timber, agriculture, and urban development. This not only destroys the habitats of countless species but also contributes to global warming. Forests absorb carbon dioxide, and without them, more greenhouse gases remain in the atmosphere, intensifying the greenhouse effect.
Water scarcity is a third major issue impacting the environment. As populations grow, demand for water increases, leading to shortages in many regions. In places like the Middle East and North Africa, water scarcity is already a reality, causing tensions among communities. Conservation efforts and technology are helping to address these problems, but much more work is needed.
Efforts to combat these environmental challenges include international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius. Many countries are also investing in renewable energy sources, like wind and solar power, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, individuals can make a difference by reducing waste, conserving water, and using public transportation.
Question 31. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an environmental issue in the passage?
A. Water scarcity B. Soil erosion C. Air pollution D. Deforestation
Question 32. The word scarcity in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ______.
A. abundance B. limitation C. availability D. shortage
Question 33. The word them in paragraph 2 refers to ______.
A. species B. greenhouse gases C. forests D. carbon dioxide
Question 34. The word conservation in paragraph 3 could best be replaced by ______.
A. preservation B. connection C. evaluation D. production
Question 35. Which of the following is the best title of the reading passage?
A. Global Warming and the Consequences. B. Agreements on Environmental Issues.
C. The Paris Agreement and Its Aim. D. Environmental Problems Facing the Earth.
Question 36. Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?
A. Water scarcity is mostly a problem in South America. B. Deforestation helps reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. C. Air pollution is mainly caused by natural disasters. D. Forests help absorb carbon dioxide, reducing the greenhouse effect.
Question 37. In which paragraph does the writer mention an effect of deforestation?
A. Paragraph 1 B. Paragraph 2 C. Paragraph 3 D. Paragraph 4
