(1)The government has pledged to () carbon emissions from heavy industry by 40 percent. Critics, however, argue that the target is far too modest to make a real difference.
(2)Scientists warn that only immediate and coordinated international action can () the most catastrophic consequences of rising global temperatures, such as the collapse of major ice sheets.
(3)Deforestation in the region has () the effects of drought. Without trees to retain moisture in the soil, farmland is drying out faster than ever before.
Many economists believe that the most efficient way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to make polluters pay. Under a carbon tax, companies are charged a fee for every ton of carbon dioxide they release. Supporters argue that this gives businesses a financial reason to adopt cleaner technologies without the government having to dictate exactly how emissions should be cut. Critics, however, point out that such taxes can raise the price of fuel and electricity, placing a heavy burden on low-income households. To address this concern, some countries return the revenue to citizens in the form of regular payments, which helps the policy gain public support.
(6)According to supporters, what is one advantage of a carbon tax?
正解 ④ 第3文「政府が排出削減の方法を細かく指示しなくても（without the government having to dictate exactly how...）企業にクリーン技術導入の経済的理由を与える」を言い換えたもの。燃料価格はむしろ上がりうると書かれている。
(7)How do some countries deal with criticism of carbon taxes?
正解 ③ 最終文「税収を定期的な給付の形で市民に還元する（return the revenue to citizens）」の言い換え。
C
スピーキング（面接No.4形式）【時間があれば】
40秒
Many countries are introducing stricter regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Should governments place heavier taxes on companies that produce large amounts of greenhouse gases?
💡 First / Second で理由を2つ明示すると、面接官に構成が伝わりやすい。
模範解答
Yes, I think so. First, higher taxes would give companies a strong financial reason to invest in cleaner technology. Second, the money collected could be used to support renewable energy projects or to help households cope with rising energy costs. This would make the transition fairer for everyone.