1 . In 2009, when Qatar (卡塔尔) bid to host the 2022 Football World Cup, it promised a carbon-neutral (碳中和) event. Even back then, the prospect of neutralizing the carbon-dioxide emissions (排放) generated by hosting hundreds of thousands of fans in newly constructed stadiums, in a desert state, seemed fanciful. So it is proving. In their greenhouse-gas accounting report, published last year, FIFA (国际足联) and the Qatari organizers estimated that the World Cup would generate 3.6 million tons of CO2 emissions. Estimating emissions for big sporting events is a relatively new practice and methods can vary, but that figure is higher than any recent World Cup or Olympics.
It is also likely to be a significant underestimate. A report in May 2022 by Carbon Market Watch (CMW), a climate watchdog (监督者), found that the official forecast failed to account accurately for the emissions generated from stadiums. FIFA, which insists its method is “best in practice”, reckons that the majority of the emissions (52%) will come from fans and players travelling to Qatar, while less than 25% are from stadium construction. That is because organizers expect these stadiums to be used for years after the World Cup, spreading their carbon footprint way into the future.
CMW believes such an excuse is far from reasonable. Before the World Cup, Qataris were able to get by with only one stadium, it points out. Consequently, it estimates that the emissions from stadium construction for the World Cup are undercounted by a factor of eight. It puts the real figure at 5 million tons. Though it amounts to less than 0.02% of the world’s annual emissions, sports teams and organizations should have set a positive example in this.
To remove the doubt from outside, Qatar has established the Global Carbon Council (GCC), a dedicated environmental agency. Beyond adjusting for World Cup emissions, the GCC will promote a path to “a low-carbon future”, a great step for a country with the world’s highest emissions per person. Yet the agency is still at its early stage. Only six projects, saving less than 600,000 tons, have been approved so far.
1. What is the main problem Qatar and FIFA are faced with at present?A.The 2022 World Cup isn’t as successful as it should be. |
B.They may fail to keep the promise to hold a green event. |
C.The figure they published is higher than that of other events |
D.They are unfamiliar with the new practice of the World Cup. |
A.By insisting on its way of environmental protection. |
B.By promising to use the new stadiums for more years. |
C.By blaming the greenhouse-gas emissions on travelers. |
D.By cooperating with Carbon Market Watch for instructions. |
A.5 million tons accounts for a little of the annual emissions. |
B.The stadium construction for the World Cup sets a bad example. |
C.The method they employed in estimating the emissions is unscientific. |
D.There will be more stadiums than Qatar actually needs after the World Cup. |
A.The GCC is an agency specially established for the World Cup |
B.The Qataris attach great importance to environmental protection. |
C.The Qataris need to make more efforts to hold a carbon-neutral event. |
D.The GCC has achieved a lot in cutting down greenhouse-gas emissions. |
2 . There is a growing hope in the field of earthquake prediction (预测) due to artificial intelligence (AI), which is challenging the widely accepted belief that earthquake prediction is impossible. Through a test carried out in China, a team of researchers from the University of Texas, Austin have developed an AI algorithm (算法) that can predict 70% of earthquakes up to seven days in advance.
The research team believes that their method worked well because they used a simple machine learning method. Based on the team’s understanding of earthquake physics, the AI was provided with a set of data on earthquake, and then taught itself by using a five-year earthquake record database. After the learning process, the AI was able to predict earthquakes by listening and analyzing signs of incoming earthquakes within the background rumblings (隆隆声) in the Earth.
This achievement undoubtedly marks a milestone (里程碑) in the field of AI-powered earthquake prediction research. “Earthquakes arrive without warning,” explains Alexandros Savvaidis, a lead researcher at the Texas Seismological Network Program (TexNet). “It’s a matter of milliseconds, and the only thing you can control is how well you are prepared. Even with the 70% accuracy, this is a huge achievement which could help reduce economic and human losses and contribute to earthquake preparation worldwide.”
Although it remains to be seen whether this method will be as effective in other areas, the researchers believe that if used in areas with more earthquake tracking networks, their Al algorithms deliver even more accurate predictions. The next step is to test AI in Texas, since UT’s Bureau TexNethas 300 earthquake stations and a continuous recording history of over 6 years, making it an excellent testing ground for these purposes.
In the long run, the authors hope to combine the AI system with physics-based models. This combined strategy could be particularly important in situations where data is poor or lacking. “There’s still a long way to go, but many advances like this, taken together, are what drive science forward,” said Scott Tinker, the bureau’s director.
1. How does the AI algorithm predict earthquakes?A.By using algorithms to collect data. |
B.By identifying data from the satellites. |
C.By analyzing background sounds in the Earth. |
D.By understanding earthquake physics. |
A.The ways to reduce losses in earthquake. |
B.The significance of developing the AI prediction. |
C.The importance of earthquake preparation. |
D.The limitations of current earthquake prediction methods. |
A.Combining the system with physics-based models. |
B.Applying the AI approach to other fields. |
C.Improving earthquake tracking networks in Texas. |
D.Conducting tests of AI in Texas. |
A.AI: Reducing Earthquake Losses |
B.AI: Stopping Earthquake from Happening |
C.AI: Rewriting the Earthquake Preparation Rules |
D.AI: Predicting 70% Earthquakes |
3 . When we talk about protecting the environment and sustainability, we focus on factories and industries that produce cars, household objects, and materials used in production. However, the carbon footprint of the fast fashion industry is sizeable and should not be overlooked.
Fast fashion has seen quite the rise recently, with stores spreading far and wide all over the world. They mass-produce one collection after the other, always on trend, and always encouraging consumers to follow the said trend. However, what about the impact this kind of business model has on the environment?
The clothing industry is the second-highest polluter of water. Factories of fast fashion poured poisonous chemicals into clean water supplies because clothing production is a land-and water-intensive industry, responsible for 10% of all carbon release globally. Even after the clothes are produced in factories, they can still affect the environment. For example, polyester (涤纶) can release plastic microfibres into the water system, which contributes to the already existing plastic problem.
The fashion industry is indeed causing great harm to the environment; moreover, the clothes being made are not meant to last. In most cases, the quality is not there, and the clothes are only used a few times before being discarded. Before the rise of fast fashion, clothes were made to last and were not meant to have the high turnover that clothes have.
There are many designers who are committed to mass-producing their clothes in sustainable ways. Some big brands are also trying to make improvements in the materials they use and the mass-producing process, but big efforts are needed if we are going to see a change. What we as consumers can do is shop consciously and consider how the clothes have been made and whether we truly need that piece or not.
1. What can be inferred about fast fashion from the first two paragraphs?A.It stresses offline sales. | B.It affects the environment seriously. |
C.It is a sustainable industry worldwide. | D.It is popular among young consumers. |
A.It makes clothing last long. | B.It reduces carbon footprint. |
C.It results in water pollution. | D.It lowers the production cost. |
A.Thrown away. | B.Picked up. | C.Passed down. | D.Turned in. |
A.Support big fashion brands. | B.Stop buying long-lasting clothes. |
C.Think twice before shopping for clothes. | D.Change dressing styles frequently. |
4 . For Christina and her team, planting trees isn’t the only goal. She hopes to employ residents, especially youth, to get their hands in the dirt and see how they can grow change.
Groundwork Bridgeport hired a team of youth and trained them to provide ongoing care for trees in the community (社区). They serve the neighborhoods where they live, monitoring the trees, providing basic care, and connecting with their neighbors. Their “patrolling” is improving each tree’s longevity while giving them valuable experience and a good payment.
“We’re using data and technology to be able to find even down to the specific city block of where trees are needed the most,” said Amy Lester, Ventures Project Coordinator, Arbor Day Foundation. With a NatureQuant NatureScore® of 10, the east Bridgeport neighborhood was flagged as desperately needing trees. NatureQuant is a tech and research company that helps the Arbor Day Foundation determine where trees are needed most in urban spaces.
The most recent program that happened in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation was a tree giveaway. Fifty trees were given to residents of the neighborhood identified by NatureQuant.
Residents showed their support for the effort by coming out in full force. They know what the trees mean to their community, to their health, to the next generation of those growing up in east Bridgeport.
1. What did Groundwork Bridgeport hire a youth team to do?A.To cut down trees. | B.To provide guidance. |
C.To care for trees. | D.To get a good payment. |
A.By counting numbers. | B.By using technology. |
C.By giving away trees. | D.By observing trees. |
A.Far-reaching. | B.One-sided. | C.Short-lived. | D.Time-wasting. |
A.A Tree Planting Plan by Groundwork Bridgeport |
B.Employ the Next Generation of Tree Planters |
C.A Tree Giveaway Program to Communities |
D.Tree Planting Cooperation Between Communities |
5 . Wondering what you can do to celebrate Earth Day on April 22? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve gathered a comprehensive list of Earth Day activities, both fun and environmentally-conscious, to help raise awareness and make a difference. If you’re ready to learn more about joining the global celebration, initiating real change, and doing your part to save our planet, read on!
·Walk or ride your bike.
·Use a refillable water bottle.
Consider going with a stainless-steel refillable bottle for a super long-lasting option.
·Plant a tree.
Pick a tree species that’s native to where you live. If you’re unsure, ask an employee at your local nursery or garden department. Choose the best planting spot to meet the tree’s needs, dig a properly sized hole, and water the tree well to give it a good start.
·Visit a local farmer’s market.
Eating locally grown food is much better for the environment. For example, locally-grown food doesn’t have to be transported long distances to end up on grocery store shelves.
·
See if your community is holding an environmental fair. If your community doesn’t have one planned, consider starting one yourself! It’s the perfect day to get together for a fun and educational celebration of the Earth. Any money raised can go towards a local environmental restoration project or group.
A.Attend a local Earth Day event. |
B.Educate your community on environmental awareness. |
C.Going car-free for the day will reduce harmful carbon emissions. |
D.That means your money won’t be wasted on unnecessary spending. |
E.If physically doing this is unrealistic for you, there are other choices! |
F.Normally, plastic water bottles end up in garbage cans after a single use. |
G.You’ll also be giving back to your community by supporting local farmers. |
6 . A possible treatment for Florida’s disastrous red tides (赤潮) took another step toward widespread use after successful testing in Sarasota Bay.
This study, led by UCF Assistant Professor of Biology Kristy Lewis, is the first successful test of any red tide treatment technology in open water using large water containers (容器). These containers — about six feet in diameter — extend from the waters’ surface to the ocean floor, allowing scientists to test real ocean conditions within a controlled setting. Four containers were treated with a clay (黏土) solution, while the other four served as a control.
The clay along with the Karenia brevis algae (海藻), which is responsible for Florida red tide, is put on the ocean floor. Lewis has spent the last three years carefully testing the impact of introducing this clay into the ocean ecosystem. She not only looks for changes in the water’s quality, but also wants to know how the clay affects the health of sea life. “We want to make sure the treatment is not worse than the disease,” she says.
At first, the test was simply to measure the influence of the clay on the ecosystem, but an unexpected red tide event caused Lewis to make the test practical. The results suggest the clay performed as expected, but there’s still a question of whether the bad effects of algae remain active on the ocean floor. Water collected during the test should provide an answer. Next steps depend on the test results, but there are already plans to survey what happened to the clay-coated algae when it’s used near seagrass beds.
Visiting Sarasota. Florida, in the middle of a red tide event reminded Lewis just how important the research is to keep the state’s coast healthy. Lewis says she’s prepared to go another three years if that’s what it takes to find an acceptable solution to red tides.
1. What was the purpose of the study?A.To plant more seagrass. | B.To fight against red tides. |
C.To collect clean water. | D.To produce containers. |
A.Her original work plan. | B.An unforgettable tour. |
C.Her team’s suggestion. | D.An unexpected red tide. |
A.Work with the locals. | B.Report Florida red tides. |
C.Further her research. | D.Study seafood industry. |
A.Nature. | B.Business. | C.Education. | D.Lifestyle. |
7 . Every year about 40,000 people attempt to climb Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. They
Hearing these stories, I’m
However, I soon
The best of a Kilimanjaro
Does Kilimanjaro deserve its reputation as a crowded mountain with lines of tourists
A.keep | B.leave | C.connect | D.bring |
A.stories | B.buildings | C.crowds | D.reporters |
A.silent | B.doubtful | C.serious | D.crazy |
A.discover | B.argue | C.decide | D.admit |
A.equipment | B.grass | C.camps | D.stones |
A.clean | B.quiet | C.tall | D.faraway |
A.new | B.special | C.significant | D.necessary |
A.taking over | B.spreading out | C.carrying on | D.paying off |
A.atmosphere | B.experience | C.experiment | D.sight |
A.regarded | B.observed | C.explored | D.studied |
A.adventurers | B.climbers | C.natives | D.officials |
A.holding on to | B.going back to | C.setting out to | D.giving way to |
A.changes | B.clears | C.improves | D.permits |
A.Obviously | B.Seemingly | C.Absolutely | D.Finally |
A.keeping | B.ruining | C.replacing | D.creating |
8 . Fast fashion has been sweeping the whole world for its accessibility and price. However, these quick and easily accessible clothing brands aren’t as safe as they appear. As fast fashion grows, so does the environmental influence it leaves behind. Fast fashion brands search for the cheapest and fastest way to keep up with the latest trends, and many clothing items require large amounts of cotton, nylon and polyester (聚酯纤维). These materials may appear safe to the eye, but they have a greater impact on the environment than most people believe.
Cotton is the most profitable non-food crop in the world. The cotton industry makes up 7% of all labor in developing countries. Cotton, however, is not very safe for the environment once it’s mass-produced for clothing. Cotton planting, the process of putting the leaves of the cotton plants under the soil to grow new cotton, actually destroys the quality of the soil in which it is grown. Cotton production usually includes the use of fertilizers and pesticides, which not only pollute the soil, but also the water through polluted runoff.
Nylon, unlike cotton, is a fully synthetic (合成的) material. It is the first fabric (布料) to be made fully in a laboratory. Nylon is not biodegradable (可自然降解的) and its production is an energy-wasting process that creates unsafe gases and sends them into the atmosphere.
Polyester is made out of petroleum. This fabric is one of the world’s most popular and cheapest fabrics to make. Its whole production process sends unsafe gases into the air. Besides, once the polyester clothing is made, washing it sends microfibers into the environment, specifically in waterways. So polyester is considered one of the most perilous materials to the environment.
Despite various companies making clothing out of unsafe materials, it’s up to you to put a stop to it. Try shopping for more environmentally friendly materials. And when it’s time to get rid of old clothes, don’t throw them away. Instead of having your clothes become landfill, sell them, or even donate them to somebody else.
1. What can we learn from the first paragraph?A.Fast fashion is popular because of its high quality. |
B.Fast fashion has a negative effect on the environment. |
C.The materials of fast fashion brands are environmentally-friendly. |
D.Despite the expensive price, the materials of fast fashion brands are safe. |
A.A large quantity of water is wasted. | B.Harmful gases are sent into the air. |
C.The soil environment is damaged. | D.Great profits are gained by farmers. |
A.Safe. | B.Important. | C.Useful. | D.Dangerous. |
A.Call on people to take action. | B.Give a warning to the public. |
C.Offer some shopping advice. | D.Raise some questions of fast fashion. |
1. What’s getting less and less these days according to the talk?
A.Empty land. | B.Garbage. | C.Water. |
A.Burying it. |
B.Sending it out of our planet. |
C.Using it as an energy source. |
A.It is hardly ever done. |
B.It causes air pollution. |
C.It is useless for hard materials. |
A. locals B decrease C. experienced D.positive E.popularity F.efficiently G. focus H. increase I. respectful J. protect K.fiercely |
Eco-tourism involves people travelling to beautiful but environmental sensitive place. Such trips are usually carried out with a(n)
It is obvious that eco-tourism is beneficial in many aspects. First, all the money spent by the tourists is used to
Compared to normal tourists, eco-tourist use energy more
Two things are needed to make eco-tourism a success. First, it should be done in small groups. And second, because it requires great effort, both eco-tourists and