Read the following passage and answer the given questions. Certain words are highlighted to answer some of the questions. The Grand Oceanic Convention, held in Rio de Janeiro, brought together representatives from 72 countries to confront the alarming rise of ocean pollution. This global gathering highlighted the urgency of safeguarding marine ecosystems and presented facts that called for immediate action. Among the leading voices was Dr. Fernando, a marine biologist from Cairo, who shared the results of his extensive research on the destruction of coral reefs and the loss of biodiversity. He explained that untreated sewage and rising industrial waste have triggered large-scale bleaching of coral reefs, causing the disappearance of several marine species. His study revealed that a healthy coral ecosystem is vital for maintaining the delicate balance of marine life and for sustaining the deep connections between oceanic species. Alongside him, the Japanese scientist Dr. Huslu emphasized the necessity of drastically reducing plastic usage across the world.He presented startlingfactsshowingthat microscopic plastics—derived from single-use packaging and industrial debris—are entering the marine food chain, eventually reaching human diets. Dr. Huslu supported the global call for eliminating single-use plastics and replacing them with biodegradable materials, stressing that this approach is essential to protect both marine life and human health. Adding to the discussion, Dr. Eleanor Carter, a marine researcher from Australia, highlighted the deep impact of oil spills and chemical effluents. She explained how such pollutants have disrupted the breeding patterns of many marine species and have poisoned critical oceanic regions. The research findings presented during the convention were striking. Over eight million metric tons of plastic waste are dumped into the oceans each year. Microscopic plastics have already been detected in more than eighty percent of marine species, and coral reefs across the globe have suffered a forty percent decline in health due to pollutants and rising sea temperatures. These facts underscored the need for a stronger, coordinated approach to ocean conservation. Delegates stressed the importance of adopting biodegradable alternatives to plastic, enforcing stricter regulations on industrial waste disposal, and promoting renewable energy sources to minimize marine contamination. From Mumbai to Oslo, world leaders took a solemn oath to face this challenge together and to protect the deep blue seas throughand persistent efforts. The convention concluded with a pledge for innovative research and global educational campaigns, signalling a united approach to preserve the world’s oceans and safeguard their resources for future generations. What was the main focus of Dr. Fernando’s research that he presented at the Grand Oceanic Convention?
- A.The effect of industrial waste on coral reefs and marine biodiversity
- B.The disruption of breeding patterns due to oil spills
- C.The contamination of seafood with microscopic plastics
- D.The role of rising sea temperatures in altering ocean currents
- E.The impact of renewable energy projects on deep ocean ecosystems
Explanation
The correct answer is (a) The effect of industrial waste on coral reefs and marine biodiversity. Option (a) is correct because Dr. Fernando’s research focused on how untreated sewage and rising industrial waste have caused large-scale bleaching of coral reefs and the disappearance of several marine species. He highlighted the importance of healthy coral ecosystems for maintaining marine life balance. Option (b) is incorrect because the disruption of breeding patterns due to oil spills was discussed by Dr. Eleanor Carter, not Dr. Fernando. Option (c) is incorrect because the contamination of seafood with microscopic plastics was highlighted by Dr. Huslu. Option (d) is incorrect because there was no mention of rising sea temperatures altering ocean currents. Rising sea temperatures were mentioned only in the context of contributing to coral reef decline, not in altering currents. Option (e) is incorrect because there is no reference to renewable energy projects impacting deep ocean ecosystems in Dr. Fernando’s presentation.