Question

read the passage.
aerial views of farmland often resemble quilts, with each square representing a different crop. modern farming typically follows this pattern through a practice called monoculture, where vast areas grow single - plant species to maximize output and profit. while this approach has fed growing populations and supported global food markets, its harm to the environment presents prompted calls for other methods. moving away from current industrial practices has complex economic and practical challenges.
the permaculture model, which mixes multiple plant species in ways that mirror natural systems, offers an alternative. this approach uses companion planting—grouping mutually beneficial plants together—to cut reliance on chemical inputs. a 2014 university of zurich study found that such mixed - species areas could match or exceed monoculture yields. these methods also better protect soil and water quality. yet questions remain about whether these methods can scale to meet global food needs without disrupting farm markets and supply chains.
the tension between industrial speed and sustainability reflects broader challenges in farm policy. while some regions have used mixed farming successfully, others face barriers from climate constraints to market forces. this has led to new hybrid approaches that try to balance nature with profits, though their long - term success remains unclear.
which analysis is best supported by evidence in the text?
the text suggests that farmers are exploring both industrial and sustainable methods, but leaves uncertain whether sustainable farming could ever produce more than industrial farming.
the text suggests that permaculture methods can match industrial farming’s productivity while reducing environmental impact, but leaves uncertain whether such a shift is viable worldwide.
the text suggests that hybrid farming presents a middle ground between permaculture and mixed farming, but leaves uncertain whether it can fully replace monoculture practices.
the text suggests that regions facing few ecological challenges have successfully used mixed farming, but leaves uncertain whether their success is replicable in more challenging environments.

Explanation:

The passage mentions permaculture can match yields and reduce environmental harm, yet its global - scale viability is unclear.

Answer:

The text suggests that permaculture methods can match industrial farming’s productivity while reducing environmental impact, but leaves uncertain whether such a shift is viable worldwide.