Practice Tests
IELTS Reading (AC) Task 1 #76

A. In recent decades, urban farming has emerged as a significant trend in cities worldwide, driven by the need for sustainable food production and environmental awareness. As urban populations grow, the demand for fresh, locally sourced food has increased, prompting individuals and communities to transform vacant lots, rooftops, and even vertical spaces into productive agricultural hubs. This movement not only addresses food security but also promotes social cohesion and reduces the environmental footprint of food transportation.|Historically, urban farming is not a new concept. During World War II, so-called "victory gardens" were cultivated in cities across Europe and North America to supplement food supplies during shortages. Today, modern urban farming employs innovative techniques such as hydroponics, which allows crops to grow without soil, and aquaponics, which integrates fish farming with plant cultivation. These methods maximize limited space and resources, making agriculture viable in densely populated areas. For instance, cities like Tokyo and New York have seen a surge in rooftop gardens, where vegetables and herbs are grown to supply local markets.|Beyond food production, urban farming offers significant environmental benefits. Green spaces created by these farms help mitigate the urban heat island effect, where cities become significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to concrete and asphalt. Additionally, urban farms contribute to biodiversity by providing habitats for pollinators such as bees. A study in London found that community gardens increased local bee populations by 30%, enhancing pollination for both urban farms and nearby ecosystems.|Socially, urban farming fosters community engagement and education. Many projects involve local schools, teaching children about sustainable agriculture and healthy eating. In Detroit, for example, community-led urban farms have revitalized neglected neighborhoods, creating jobs and strengthening community ties. However, challenges remain, including high startup costs for advanced systems and limited access to land in expensive urban areas.|Looking forward, the future of urban farming depends on technological advancements and policy support. Governments can encourage its growth through subsidies or land-use policies that prioritize agricultural spaces. As cities continue to expand, urban farming offers a promising solution to feed populations sustainably while enhancing urban environments and community well-being.