長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題78

Urban vertical farming represents a revolutionary approach to agriculture that addresses the growing challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. By utilizing advanced hydroponic systems and LED lighting technology, these indoor facilities can produce crops year-round in controlled environments, independent of weather conditions and seasonal limitations.
Recent studies indicate that vertical farms can yield up to 390 times more produce per square foot compared to traditional farming methods. Major cities like Singapore, Tokyo, and New York have already implemented large-scale vertical farming operations. These facilities consume 95% less water than conventional agriculture while eliminating the need for pesticides and herbicides.
Despite their environmental benefits, vertical farms face significant economic challenges. The initial investment costs are substantial, with setup expenses ranging from $10 to $40 million per facility. Additionally, the high energy consumption required for LED lighting systems raises concerns about long-term sustainability and operational costs.
However, as urban populations continue to grow and climate change threatens traditional agriculture, vertical farming may become essential for ensuring food security in densely populated areas. Experts predict that technological advances will eventually reduce operational costs, making this innovative farming method more economically viable.