長文読解（人文系・自然科学系の文章）- 問題79

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 growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often in controlled indoor environments such as warehouses or skyscrapers. By utilizing advanced technologies like LED lighting, hydroponic systems, and automated climate control, vertical farms can produce fresh vegetables and herbs year-round, regardless of external weather conditions.
The benefits of vertical farming extend beyond mere space efficiency. These facilities can produce crops using 95% less water than traditional agriculture through precise nutrient delivery systems. Additionally, the controlled environment eliminates the need for pesticides and reduces transportation costs, as farms can be located directly within urban centers. A single vertical farm covering one acre can yield the equivalent of 10-20 acres of traditional farmland.
Despite these advantages, vertical farming faces significant economic challenges. The initial setup costs are substantial, with LED lighting systems alone consuming considerable electricity. Current estimates suggest that operating costs are 30-40% higher than conventional farming. However, as technology advances and energy costs decrease, experts predict that vertical farming will become increasingly viable, potentially feeding millions of urban residents while reducing agriculture's environmental footprint.