【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. endangered /ɛnˈdeɪn dʒərd/ (adj.) – at risk of being extinct
Example: We don’t see a lot of Sumatran rhinos anymore because they are endangered.
2. compromise /ˈkɒm prəˌmaɪz/ (n.) – an agreement settled between two parties considering each demands
Example: The organization agrees to financially support the zoo as a compromise to the zoo releasing its animals to the wild.
3. diverse / dɪˈvɜrs, daɪ-, ˈdaɪ vɜrs/ (adj.) – having different types
Example: Our country’s ecosystem is diverse because of the varied plants and animals in our forests.
4. trafficking /ˈtræf ɪkɪŋ/ (n.) – the act of selling something or someone illegally
Example: The government confiscated the farmer’s trucks that were used for wildlife trafficking.
5. illicit /ɪˈlɪs ɪt/ (adj.) – not allowed by law
Example: The villagers were arrested for illicit trading of pandas to the zoo.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
The Indonesian government will be allotting part of its borrowed funds to protect and preserve endangered animals and habitats in Sumatra.
In a deal with the United States, Indonesia agreed to invest 12.7 million dollars on wildlife conservation efforts as a compromise to reduce its debts to the United States. In seven years, Indonesia will use funds initially owed to the United States to improve the protection and living conditions of the wildlife in Sumatra. Sumatra [soo-MAH-truh] is one of the world’s few remaining diverse ecosystems.
Sumatra’s wildlife include animals and natural environments that exist nowhere else on Earth. It is home to the Sumatran tigers and the last one hundred of the Sumatran rhinos. It is also the natural habitat of endangered elephants and orangutans. These animals are nearly extinct because of the rampant practice of animal trafficking in the island.
These animals are found only in Indonesia because of the unique ecosystem of the Sumatran rainforests. It provides drinkable water, which can also be used to cultivate agricultural lands to grow crops. Moreover, it helps maintain climate conditions that are good for both animals and humans. However, these rainforests are also threatened, particularly by illicit deforestation.
Indonesia hopes to put a stop to these environmental threats. Conservation International (CI) is one of the organizations aiding the government’s efforts. Ketut Putra, vice president of CI Indonesia, said that part of the funds will employ and train security personnel who will look after the wildlife. An initiative to inspire awareness on the importance of protecting endangered animals and habitats in the Indonesian community will also be financed.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· In your opinion, how else can Indonesia protect and preserve its wildlife? Please discuss briefly.
· Do you think the agreement of reducing Indonesia’s debt to improve its natural environment is a good move by the United States? Why or why not?
Discussion B
· What do you think are the reasons why more and more animals are becoming endangered nowadays? Please explain you answer.
· How can these causes be prevented?