長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題7

Urban vertical farming has emerged as a revolutionary approach to agriculture in densely populated cities. This innovative method involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers within controlled indoor environments, often in repurposed buildings or specially designed structures. Unlike traditional farming, vertical farms use advanced technologies such as LED lighting systems, hydroponic nutrient solutions, and climate control to optimize plant growth year-round.
The benefits of vertical farming are substantial. A single vertical farm can produce the same amount of food as a traditional farm using 95% less land and 70% less water. Additionally, crops grown in vertical farms are free from pesticides and can be harvested multiple times per year due to the controlled environment. Major cities like Singapore, New York, and Tokyo have already implemented vertical farming projects to address food security concerns.
However, challenges remain significant. The initial investment costs for vertical farming facilities can be extremely high, often reaching millions of dollars. Energy consumption is another major concern, as LED lighting and climate control systems require substantial electricity. Critics argue that the environmental benefits may be offset by the carbon footprint of energy usage.
Despite these challenges, experts predict that vertical farming will play a crucial role in feeding the world's growing urban population, which is expected to reach 68% by 2050.