長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題64

Urban vertical farming represents a revolutionary approach to agriculture that could transform how we produce food in the 21st century. This innovative method involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers within controlled indoor environments, typically in urban areas where traditional farming space is limited.
The technology behind vertical farming relies on advanced systems including LED lighting, hydroponic or aeroponic growing methods, and precise climate control. These facilities can produce crops year-round, independent of weather conditions, while using up to 95% less water than conventional farming. Additionally, vertical farms eliminate the need for pesticides and herbicides, resulting in cleaner, healthier produce.
Despite these advantages, vertical farming faces significant challenges. The initial investment costs are substantial, with facilities requiring expensive infrastructure and high energy consumption for artificial lighting. Current estimates suggest that vertical farms consume 30-170 kilowatt-hours per kilogram of produce, making energy efficiency a critical concern.
Nevertheless, as urban populations continue to grow and climate change threatens traditional agriculture, vertical farming may become essential for food security. Several major cities, including Singapore and Tokyo, have already begun implementing large-scale vertical farming projects to supplement their food supply.