世界の原生自然を保護するための対策は十分か

Is enough being done to protect the world’s wilderness areas?

Depending on what we are and where we live, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, the international community has made strides over the years, in protecting wilderness across the world. Now let me explain the details.     

First, countries have put regulations in place, such as “national parks,” “sanctuaries,” in their territories, to prevent excessive human exploitation. Plus, scientists are applying genetic engineering to restore populations of species in some regions. In addition, international framework is working to crackdown illegal logging and poaching, with satellite images and GPS monitoring.     

Next, I understand some may argue that challenges remain, such as controlling urbanization, but the public also understands that the authorities are trying their best with limited resources, and expresses support for them. It will take years of hard work and commitment to resolve these problems. In other words, just we don’t see quick results doesn’t necessarily mean nothing is happening.           

Therefore, even though there is still room for improvement, we are doing our best efforts to preserve the wilderness across the world. Thank you for your attention. [184 Words Type-E]

海洋乱開発を防ぐための対策は十分か

Is enough being done to protect the world’s oceans from exploitation? 

Depending on what we are and where we live, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, the international community has made strides over the years, in stopping marine exploitation. Now let me explain the details.     

First, countries have established regulations, such as “no-fishing zones,” and “closed seasons,” in their territorial waters, to prevent excessive fishing. Plus, scientists are using genetic engineering to restore species populations successfully in some areas. In addition, international framework is working to crackdown illegal fishing with harmful fishing gear, with satellite images and GPS monitoring.     

Next, I understand some may argue that challenges remain, such as curbing marine pollution. However, the public also understands that the authorities are trying their best with limited resources, and expresses support for them. It will take years of hard work and commitment to resolve these problems. In other words, just we don’t see quick results doesn’t necessarily mean nothing is happening.           

So, even though there is still room for improvement, countries are making their best efforts to heading off marine exploitation across the world. Thank you for your attention. [186 Words Type-E]

環境保護と経済成長は両立するのか

Is environmental protection compatible with economic growth?

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, we can find “a happy medium.” Now let me explain the details.     

First, so-called “green industries” brings both environmental and economic benefits. So, for example, countries such as Germany and the UK have implemented policies to support the industries, such as wind power and home insulation. For another, the Japanese government is working to develop new technologies such as hydrogen, biofuels, and geothermal energy to replace fossil fuels. And many companies follow this trend and use these environmentally-friendly energy sources.     

Next, I understand some may argue that many developing countries prioritize boosting the economy over protecting the environment, but as it is, deforestation and overfishing have already threatened people in these countries. At the same time, they are beginning to realize that certain rare plants and animals are cashable resources worth preserving.           

Therefore, I conclude that the two goals, having listed in the UN Sustainable Development Goals, are compatible with each other. So, we must come together to achieve them. Thank you for your attention. [184 Words Type-G]

人類は自然界と調和して生きられるか

Can humans live in harmony with the natural world? 

Depending on what we are and where we live, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, we can live in harmony with the natural world, as our ancestors did. Now let me explain the details.     

As a first step, we can see the world as an ecosystem where humans and nature work together in harmony. This is major shift of perspective, because humans have attempted to control and exploit nature. On this point, the UN Sustainable Development Goals have listed some action to take, such as “saving natural resources,” and “regulating development.”     

The next phase includes adopting sustainable ways of living. In this regard, experts have already presented detailed plans for a sustainable world powered by renewables, such as wind, solar, and water. In fact, you can see solar panels and wind turbines everywhere, indicating that the technology is already in use. The next challenge is to make them more widespread.           

Therefore, I conclude that humans can coexist with the natural environment, or, can achieve “a sustainable world.” Thank you for your attention. [180 Words Type-G]

人々の環境意識を喚起するため何ができるか

What can be done to make people more environmentally conscious?

Depending on what we are and where we live, the answers may well vary, and they are all worth considering, but in my view, we can take certain steps to make people more environmentally conscious. Now let me explain the details.     

First, “individuals” can increase awareness by joining environmental projects, such as planting trees and cleaning rivers. Plus, small actions such as “recycling with neighbors”, and “setting up a food bank,” can have positive influence on their communities, as they often receive media coverage, detailing the significance of these activities.     

Next, “companies” can develop energy-efficient appliances and advertise their merits to incréase public awareness. This works well, because advertisements have a strong impact, particularly in developed countries where people are already conscious of the harm we are doing to the planet. As a result, more people will be willing to invest in electric vehicles, solar panels, and compost bins.           

If we work together on these issues, we can incréase environmental consciousness among people, which is also one of the key challenges of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Thank you for your attention. [182 Words Type-H]

絶滅危惧種の保護は重要か

Is it important to save endangered species?

Depending on how familiar we are with this topic, the answers may well vary, and they are all worth considering, but in my view, it’s important to protect endangered species. Now let me explain the details.     

First, as it is, many plants and animals help purify water, fertilize soil, and stabilize climate. Plus, we are also counting on their genetic materials for producing food and medicine. This means that we cannot do without them, so, losing some species would harm us. In addition, studies have shown that losing biodiversity can have negative impact on human health, both directly and indirectly.     

Next, I understand some may argue that we don’t know how much losing biodiversity hurts ecosystems, but on this point, the UN Sustainable Development Goals have listed “preserving biodiversity” as one of their key challenges. Thus, we can feel assured working together to achieve this goal, even if we are not experts.           

Therefore, I agree with what the topic suggests, and believe that protecting endangered species is important for preserving the environment and making our lives sustainable. Thank you for your attention. [182 Words Type-K]

現代農業は環境に過大な負荷をかけている

Agree or disagree: Modern agriculture puts too much pressure on the environment.

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, some modern farming puts too much pressure on the environment. Now let me explain the details.     

First, modern farming relies on chemical substances, such as fertilizers and herbicides, which can harm the environment. For example, fertilizers pollute river system and threaten animals’ health, while pesticides eliminate beneficial insects. Plus, some farming styles, such as extensive mono-cropping, make topsoil poorer, and cause less biodiversity in the area.     

At the same time, however, some sustainable farming practices are also being put in place. One such example is “agro-forestry,” which involves growing crops and livestock among trees, such as forests and fruit gardens. As a result, they use fewer chemicals, while restores fertile soil, and increases biodiversity.           

In conclusion, I would have to say that some of modern farming has serious pressure on the environment. However, the UN Sustainable Development Goals have listed ‘promoting sustainable agriculture’ as one of their key challenges. So, we must come together to achieve it across the world. Thank you for your attention. [184 Words Type-G]

生物多様性維持のため私たちは何をすべきか

What should we do to maintain biodiversity?

Depending on what we are and where we live, the answers may well vary, and they are all worth considering, but in my view, we can take some actions to tackle this issue. Now let me explain the details.     

First, we must protect forests, especially the rainforests, because they provide habitats over half of the world’s plant and animal species. To preserve and restore them, we must stop massive deforestation and promote planting new trees. Even though forest recovery takes time, planting trees serves as the first yet important step. In addition, introducing ecotourism is also a successful way to attract people toward such activities.     

Next, we can choose items that are labeled as “eco-friendly.” Because many consumers have difficulty recognizing which products support biodiversity or harm it, so governments and other organizations provide certifications for environmentally-sustainable products. By following these labels, we can help protect biodiversity without any special expertise.           

If we work together on these points, we will help improve the current situation, which is also one of the key challenges of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Thank you for your attention. [184 Words Type-H]

エコツーリズムの利点と欠点

Pros and cons of ecotourism

Depending on what we are and where we live, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but come to think of it, it’s important to assess its pros and cons when we promote ecotourism. Now let me explain the details.     

Ecotourism has several advantages, so, some local areas have already introduced it and achieved positive results: first, it allows tourists from urban areas to reconnect with nature and make them relax. Studies has also shown positive effects of ecotourism on mental health. Next, it educates tourists about plants and animals, increasing their awareness of environmental preservation. In addition, it boosts the local economy by attracting more visitors and creating job opportunities.      

There are always cons to everything: one is that ecotourists, who usually travel by plane or car, can incréase greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, ecotourists might harm protected areas by bringing exotic fruits in, picking plants, and leaving trash.           

Ecotourism is a modern concept: however, if we understand its pros and cons and implement it properly, it can help revive the environment. Thank you for your attention. [180 Words Type-M]

世界生態系における森林の役割

The role of forests in the world’s ecology 

Depending on how familiar we are with the biosphere, the answers may well vary. Now I’ll try to explain “the forest ecosystems” as clearly as possible.     

First, forests play an important role in fixing soil and retaining water, and purifying air, as well as providing habitats for such as insects, bacteria, and even marine life. But when forests are cleared, the topsoil is rapidly lost, resulting in destructive sandstorms and floods.     

Next, forests use photosynthesis to intake carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, stabilizing climate and preventing droughts. According to scientific calculation, eliminating fossil fuels alone is insufficient to reverse climate change, and that’s why restoring forests is important.     

These kinds of system has worked without interruption since very old age. This is “the forest ecosystem.” In this way, forests benefits all creatures, including humans. And, maintaining the forest ecosystem is essential to stop climate change and maintain biodiversity.     

On this point, the UN Sustainable Development Goals have listed ‘conserving forest resources’ as one of their key challenges. So, we must come together to achieve them. Thank you for your attention. [180 Words Type-G]

環境の影響は陸(soil)海(water)空(air)と並べておいたほうが網羅的に聞こえて良い。

核エネルギーは煤煙や廃棄物のない環境に優しいエネルギーなのか

Is núclear energy the most environmentally-friendly form of energy without the dirty smoke and waste?

Depending on how familiar we are with the topic, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, núclear power is harming the environment. Now let me explain the details.     

First, núclear power plants create radioactive waste that remains radioactive for thousands of years. On the other hand, there is a constant risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tsunamis, during this long period. As a result, we cannot ignore the danger of this radioactive waste that stays on Earth.     

Next, I understand some may argue that using núclear power curbs greenhouse effect. Certainly, it may sound plausible, but as it is, this is a complicated matter. Because many energy companies own núclear plants, and support pro-nuclear research to promote the industry, resulting in “a conflict of interest.” So, it’s difficult to support pro-núclear viewpoints easily. This is particularly rélevant in Japan.           

In conclusion, as núclear energy is too difficult for humans to handle, we should be skeptical about its ecological values, and look for more sustainable energy options. Thank you for your attention. [180 Words Type-O]

核エネルギーは地球温暖化の有望な解決策か

Is núclear energy a víable solution to global warming? 

Depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, núclear power is no more the solution to global warming. Now let me explain the details.     

First, núclear power plants emit more heat than fossil fuels, which heats up seawater and exacerbates global warming. And, the warmed seawater itself releases carbon dioxide, making the situation even worse. As it is, the UN Sustainable Development Goals have listed “promoting clean energy,” but núclear energy is not listed among them.     

Next, I understand some may argue that using núclear power reduces greenhouse gas emissions on the bottom line. Certainly, it may sound plausible, but as it is, this is a complicated matter. Because many energy companies own núclear plants, and support pro-nuclear research to promote the industry, resulting in “a conflict of interest.” So, it’s difficult to support pro-núclear viewpoints easily.           

In conclusion, as núclear energy is too difficult for humans to handle, we should be skeptical about its ecological value, and look for more sustainable energy options. Thank you for your attention. [180 Words Type-O]

水力発電の利点と欠点

Pros and cons of hydroelectricity [HE]

Depending on how familiar we are with this system, the answers may well vary, but come to think of it, it’s important to assess the pros and cons of promoting hydroelectricity, or HE. Now let me explain the details.     

First, HE is a clean and environmentally-friendly source of energy. For example, it emits no greenhouse gases. As a result, contrary to thermal and núclear power plants, HE itself does not have any negative impact on the environment.     

Next, HE is economically manageable. The hydropower generator design is simple and needs less resource for maintenance. This makes HE economically feasible even for individuals and small communities. This is a notable advantage in promoting HE in developing countries.     

There are always cons to everything: one is that HE is greatly affected by weather and is especially vulnerable to droughts. In addition, building dams for HE can cause significant harm to the environment and disrupt ecosystems.           

HE is a technology with a long history: if we understand its pros and cons to use it properly, it can help many people. Thank you for your attention. [182 Words Type-M]

再生可能エネルギーは化石燃料に取って代わるか

Will renewables eventually replace fossil fuels? 

The future is often hard to predict; depending on what we are, the answers may well vary, and they all make sense, but in my view, renewables will mostly replace fossil fuels. Now let me explain the details.     

First, the world is already accepting renewables. On this point, experts have designed detailed plans for a world, powered by water, wind, and solar. And we can see solar panels and wind turbines already in use all over. This means that the technology is already available. The next challenge is to make these sources more widely spread.     

Next, I understand some may argue that fossil fuels are still the most viable option, but the UN Sustainable Development Goals have listed “spreading clean energy” as one of their key challenges. In response, people and companies around the world are actively trying to include renewable sources in their operations. Surely, this is a progression.     

While challenges still remain in ensuring a stable supply of renewables, their potential is promising. So, we must come together to promote them to build a sustainable world. Thank you for your attention. [183 Words Type-O]