Task 2 – Multi-task reading

In this part there are four short texts for you to read and 15 questions for you to answer.

Text A

The Rise of Vertical and Urban Farms

As urban populations grow, the challenge of providing fresh, local food becomes more pressing. Vertical farms, which grow crops in vertically stacked layers, often indoors, are offering a solution. These farms use hydroponic or aeroponic techniques (growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water or mist), significantly reducing the need for land and water compared to traditional agriculture. Urban farms, whether vertical or rooftop gardens, reduce transportation costs and emissions, bring food production closer to consumers, and can even contribute to urban greening. They offer a vision of resilient, self-sufficient cities.

Text B

Insects: The Future of Protein?

With the global population increasing, finding sustainable protein sources is crucial. Insects, such as crickets and mealworms, are emerging as a highly efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional livestock. They require significantly less land, water, and feed to produce the same amount of protein, and emit fewer greenhouse gases. Nutritionally, many insects are rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. While still a novel concept in many Western diets, insect-based flours and products are gaining traction as a sustainable and nutritious food ingredient for both human consumption and animal feed.

Text C

Tackling Food Waste at Home

Food waste is a global problem with significant environmental and economic consequences. A large portion of this waste occurs at the consumer level, with individuals discarding edible food due to over-purchasing, confusion about expiry dates, or poor storage. Simple changes in household habits can make a huge difference. Planning meals, making shopping lists, understanding "best before" vs. "use by" dates, and properly storing leftovers can drastically reduce waste. Apps designed to help manage pantries and share surplus food are also valuable tools in this fight. Every reduction in waste contributes to a more sustainable food system.

Text D

Lab-Grown Meat: Ethical and Sustainable

Cultivated meat, also known as lab-grown or cell-based meat, is produced by growing animal cells in a controlled laboratory environment, eliminating the need to raise and slaughter livestock. This technology offers a compelling solution to many of the ethical and environmental concerns associated with conventional meat production, including animal welfare issues, extensive land use, high water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. While still a high-cost, nascent industry, cultivated meat has the potential to provide consumers with real meat products that are significantly more sustainable and humane than their traditional counterparts.