Reading comprehension: Read the passage below and choose A, B, C or D to answer each question. The Power of Blue Carbon Blue carbon refers t...

Reading comprehension: Read the passage below and choose A, B, C or D to answer each question.

The Power of Blue Carbon

Blue carbon refers to the carbon dioxide stripped from the atmosphere and stored in coastal and marine ecosystems. While rainforests often receive the most attention for their role in climate mitigation, coastal vegetation, such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses, is actually far more efficient at sequestering carbon. These ecosystems capture carbon at rates up to ten times higher than terrestrial forests. Their ability to lock this carbon in their waterlogged soils for millennia makes them a vital tool in the fight against global warming.

Despite their ecological importance, these marine habitats are among the most threatened on Earth. Mangroves, for instance, are being cleared at an alarming rate for coastal development and aquaculture. When these ecosystems are damaged or destroyed, they stop acting as carbon sinks and instead become significant sources of greenhouse gases. The carbon that has been stored for centuries is released back into the ocean and atmosphere, which exacerbates the current climate crisis.

Protecting these "blue" ecosystems offers more than just climate benefits. They serve as natural buffers against storm surges and rising sea levels, protecting inland communities from the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Furthermore, they provide essential nurseries for countless marine species, supporting global fish stocks and the livelihoods of millions of people. Conservation efforts now aim to integrate blue carbon into international climate policies, encouraging governments to invest in the restoration of these degraded coastal zones.

In the long run, the preservation of blue carbon ecosystems is not merely an environmental preference but a strategic necessity. As the world seeks to reach net-zero emissions, the natural capacity of the oceans must be leveraged alongside technological innovations. While technical solutions are being developed, the immediate restoration of our coastlines remains one of the most cost-effective ways to manage carbon. Prioritizing these ecosystems today will ensure a more resilient planet for future generations.

Trả lời cho các câu 641, 642, 643, 644, 645 dưới đây:

Câu 641:

What does the word "their" in paragraph 6 refer to?

A. Rainforests.

B. Terrestrial forests.

C. Coastal vegetation.

D. Rates of sequestration