Câu 53
Questions 53-60: Read the passage carefully.
In what conservationists are calling a watershed moment, the ambitious Greater Mekong Wildlife Bridge Project has encountered an unexpected stumbling block. Despite an unprecedent-ed $50 million investment, the migrating elephant populations have plummeted by 35% since the project began. These statistics have sent shock waves through the whole conservation community, challenging long-held assumptions about the effectiveness of wildlife corridor.
Wildlife corridors are designed to connect isolated habitats, giving animals safe paths to move between areas. These artificial pathways were meant to ensure species survival in the face of habitat destruction. Yet beneath this seemingly foolproof approach lies a more complex reality. As human communities expand into these areas, the corridors become dangerous zones. Animals following these predictable routes often face life-threatening risks from poachers who have got wind of their movement patterns.
From recent findings by the Southeast Asian Conservation Institute, what emerges is a thought-provoking picture. When faced with human disturbance, elephants changed their migration routes, wandering into unprotected areas. This behavior proved catastrophic – poaching incidents soared by 180% in these zones. The findings have left conservationists shaking their heads over the unintended consequences of their well-meaning interventions.
The economic implications of corridor conservation make an already thorny issue even more complicated. Local communities often view these projects with skepticism as farmers are forced to change traditional practices after authorities implement strict land-use regulations. While compensation schemes exist on paper, they rarely translate into adequate financial support for those affected, fueling much tension.
Conservation biologists have begun advocating for a new approach. Rather than imposing artificial corridors, they propose integrating wildlife paths into existing human infrastructure. This strategy has already borne fruit in countries like Malaysia, where elevated highways incorporate natural underpasses. These structures allow for wildlife movement while maintaining human activity above. It’s a win-win situation.
Nevertheless, critics argue that such solutions merely address the tip of the iceberg: humanity’s non-stop expansion into natural habitats. As urban sprawl continues ceaselessly, even these innovative ideas might not be enough to protect wildlife in the long run. The question remains: can we find a lasting solution that truly supports both people and nature?
Choose an option (A, B, C, or D) that best answers each question.
Đáp án và lời giải
Đáp án: A