長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題15

The concept of sustainable agriculture has gained significant attention as the world faces growing environmental challenges and food security concerns. Unlike conventional farming methods that rely heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, sustainable agriculture emphasizes practices that maintain soil health, conserve water resources, and protect biodiversity.
One promising approach is regenerative farming, which focuses on rebuilding soil organic matter and restoring degraded soil biodiversity. This method includes cover cropping, crop rotation, and reduced tillage practices. Studies show that regenerative farms can increase soil carbon storage by up to 200% within five years, helping to combat climate change.
Another key aspect is integrated pest management (IPM), which combines biological, cultural, and chemical tools to minimize pest damage while reducing environmental impact. Farmers using IPM report a 30-50% reduction in pesticide use while maintaining crop yields.
The transition to sustainable agriculture faces challenges, including initial costs and the need for farmer education. However, long-term benefits include improved soil fertility, reduced input costs, and enhanced ecosystem services that support both agricultural productivity and environmental conservation.