長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題71

The concept of urban farming has gained significant momentum in recent years as cities worldwide grapple with food security challenges and environmental concerns. Unlike traditional agriculture, urban farming utilizes small spaces within metropolitan areas, including rooftops, abandoned lots, and vertical growing systems. In Tokyo, for example, over 200 rooftop gardens have been established since 2015, producing approximately 15,000 tons of fresh vegetables annually.
This innovative approach offers multiple benefits beyond food production. Urban farms reduce transportation costs and carbon emissions associated with bringing food from rural areas to urban centers. They also create green spaces that improve air quality and provide educational opportunities for city residents. Studies conducted in Detroit and Singapore have shown that urban farming can reduce local temperatures by up to 2 degrees Celsius in surrounding areas.
However, urban farming faces several challenges, including limited space, soil contamination in former industrial sites, and higher operational costs compared to traditional farming. Despite these obstacles, technological advances in hydroponic and aeroponic systems are making urban agriculture more efficient and economically viable. Many experts believe that urban farming will play a crucial role in feeding the world's growing urban population, which is expected to reach 68% of the global population by 2050.