The concept of 'environmental carrying capacity' has long been central to ecological theory, yet its application to human societies remains contentious. Unlike wildlife populations, which are constrained by biological limits, human societies can manipulate their environment through technology and trade. However, this capacity for modification does not eliminate resource scarcity; rather, it shifts the burden to global systems. Recent studies suggest that while local carrying capacities can be exceeded through imports, the planet's finite resources impose an ultimate ceiling. Consequently, some scholars argue that sustainable development must reconcile economic growth with ecological boundaries, a challenge complicated by unequal consumption patterns across nations. This perspective implies that technological optimism alone is insufficient, demanding a reassessment of societal values and international cooperation.
❓ Согласно тексту, в чем заключается основное ограничение применения концепции пропускной способности к человеческим обществам?
A. A) Человеческие популяции не подвержены никаким экологическим ограничениям благодаря технологиям.
B. B) Истощение местных ресурсов может быть компенсировано торговлей, но глобальные ресурсы в конечном счёте ограничены.
C. C) Устойчивое развитие невозможно, поскольку экономический рост всегда превышает экологические пределы.
D. D) Эта концепция применима только к дикой природе, а не к человеческим обществам с развитыми технологиями.
✅ 正确答案
B) Local resource depletion can be offset by trade, but global resources are ultimately finite.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first