Page 24 - READING COMPANION TO ENGLISH EXAMS

Answer the questions 24–26 according to the
passage below.

The American Southeast will soon be populated 25. The Global Justice Ecology Project released
with genetically modified (GM) trees with a statement in opposition to the company’s
enhanced photosynthetic capabilities. The plans because ----.
expectation is that these fast-growing trees will A) there is a lack of information about the
become even more effective at absorbing carbon potential dangers of GM trees to flora, fauna,
dioxide from the atmosphere, thereby aiding in and human health
mitigating the climate crisis. The study, which has
not yet been peer-reviewed, was conducted in B) the GM trees’ ability to photosynthesise is
collaboration with Oregon State University and the most important factor in reducing climate
suggests that GM trees acquire 53 per cent more change
biomass than their conventional counterparts, C) the study concerning the GM trees is yet to
trapping up to 27 per cent more carbon dioxide. be peer-reviewed, which raises concerns
The project was developed by a California-based among scientists
biotechnology company. This preliminary research
was conducted in a greenhouse under laboratory D) the authorities have decided to plant GM
conditions, but the GM trees have just lately been trees without waiting for the findings of
released into the wild. Genetic modification is scientific studies
often a controversial issue that causes distrust E) the firm has failed to take all necessary
and concern, and this endeavour is no exception. precautions to prevent unforeseen
The Global Justice Ecology Project has issued a consequences
statement in opposition to the company’s plans,
asserting that the long-term consequences of
GM trees, their seeds, or their pollen for forests,
animals, and human health are unknown.
According to the company, several precautions
have been taken to decrease the danger of
‘unintended consequences’, and numerous
protections are in place. Another concern is
whether or not this small firm can make a
significant impact on the looming climate disaster.

24. According to the passage, the idea of planting 26. What is the author’s attitude towards
genetically modified trees ----. genetically modified trees?
A) arouses suspicion and fear among scientists A) Frustrated
since it is one of the most controversial B) Irreverent
issues
C) Sceptical
B) has been put into practice recently to take in
more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere D) Pragmatic
C) will be abandoned because of its negative E) Humorous
impact on forests, animals, and human
health
D) is the brainchild of a biotechnology company
in California and Oregon State University
E) has an enormous effect on climate disasters,
just as preliminary research predicted

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