The concept of 'planned obsolescence' has long been a cornerstone of consumer electronics manufacturing, yet its environmental implications are increasingly under scrutiny. Originally designed to stimulate economic growth by encouraging frequent product replacement, this strategy often results in devices that are difficult to repair or upgrade. Recent studies indicate that the average lifespan of a smartphone is merely two to three years, leading to millions of tons of electronic waste annually. In response, some manufacturers have begun adopting modular designs, allowing consumers to replace individual components rather than the entire device. However, critics argue that such initiatives are insufficient without legislative mandates, such as 'right-to-repair' laws, which compel companies to provide spare parts and repair manuals for a minimum period. The tension between commercial interests and environmental sustainability remains a central challenge, prompting a re-evaluation of production models in the 21st century.
❓ Mối quan tâm chính của tác giả về sự lỗi thời có chủ đích là gì?
A. A) Nó thúc đẩy tăng trưởng kinh tế nhưng làm giảm chất lượng sản phẩm.
B. B) Nó dẫn đến thiệt hại môi trường nghiêm trọng do vòng đời sản phẩm ngắn.
C. C) Nó ngăn cản các nhà sản xuất áp dụng thiết kế mô-đun.
D. D) Nó đã được giải quyết hiệu quả nhờ các luật về quyền sửa chữa.
✅ 正确答案
B) It leads to significant environmental damage due to short product lifespans.
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