長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題18

Urban vertical farming represents a revolutionary approach to agriculture that addresses the growing challenges of food security in densely populated cities. This innovative method involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers within controlled indoor environments, using artificial lighting and hydroponic systems instead of traditional soil-based cultivation.
The technology offers numerous advantages over conventional farming. Vertical farms can produce crops year-round, regardless of weather conditions, and use up to 95% less water than traditional agriculture through precise nutrient delivery systems. Additionally, these facilities can be established in urban areas, significantly reducing transportation costs and carbon emissions associated with food distribution.
Recent studies indicate that a single vertical farm facility occupying just one acre can produce the equivalent yield of 10-15 acres of traditional farmland. Major cities like Singapore and Tokyo have already implemented large-scale vertical farming projects, with Singapore aiming to produce 30% of its food locally by 2030 through such technologies.
However, challenges remain, particularly regarding energy consumption. Current vertical farming operations require substantial electricity for LED lighting systems, which can make production costs higher than conventional farming. Researchers are actively working on developing more energy-efficient technologies to make vertical farming economically viable on a larger scale.