長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題76

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 cultivating crops in vertically stacked layers within controlled indoor environments, typically in buildings or shipping containers. By utilizing advanced technologies such as LED lighting, hydroponic systems, and climate control, vertical farms can produce fresh vegetables and herbs year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
The benefits of vertical farming extend beyond mere space efficiency. These facilities use up to 95% less water than traditional farming methods through precise irrigation systems that recycle nutrients. Additionally, the controlled environment eliminates the need for pesticides and herbicides, resulting in cleaner, healthier produce. A single vertical farm can yield the equivalent of 10-20 traditional acres while occupying just a fraction of the land area.
However, vertical farming faces significant challenges, particularly regarding energy consumption and initial investment costs. The LED lighting systems required for photosynthesis consume substantial electricity, making operational expenses high. Despite these obstacles, major cities like Singapore, Tokyo, and New York have embraced vertical farming as a sustainable solution to urban food production, with the global market expected to reach $24 billion by 2030.