The concept of 'environmental carrying capacity' has long been a cornerstone of ecological theory, yet its application to human societies remains contentious. While traditional models assume a linear relationship between population growth and resource depletion, recent research suggests that technological innovation and social adaptation can effectively recalibrate this capacity. For instance, the Green Revolution dramatically increased agricultural yields in the mid-20th century, temporarily alleviating fears of mass starvation. However, critics argue that such technological fixes often defer rather than solve underlying sustainability crises, as they may introduce new ecological stressors, such as soil degradation or water pollution. This debate highlights a fundamental tension between optimistic techno-centric perspectives and precautionary ecological viewpoints, underscoring the need for integrated policies that consider both human ingenuity and planetary boundaries.
❓ What is the main point of the passage?
A. A) Technological innovation has permanently solved the problem of resource depletion.
B. B) The application of environmental carrying capacity to human societies is straightforward and widely accepted.
C. C) The relationship between human population and resource limits is complex, involving both technological adaptation and ongoing ecological concerns.
D. D) Critics of the Green Revolution believe that soil degradation is the only major environmental issue.
✅ 正确答案
C) The relationship between human population and resource limits is complex, involving both technological adaptation and ongoing ecological concerns.
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