Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questi...

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 31 to 40.

The Significance of Green Buildings

        Green buildings are designed to minimise environmental impact and enhance the well-being of occupants. These buildings incorporate sustainable materials, energy-efficient technologies, and water-saving features, making them more environmentally friendly than traditional buildings. Green building practices have gained attention as society increasingly recognises the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving resources, and promoting sustainable living. By adopting these practices, communities can contribute to a cleaner environment and a healthier future.

        [I] One of the key benefits of green buildings is their energy efficiency. [II] Green buildings often use renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to power their operations. [III] Additionally, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems help reduce electricity consumption. By cutting down on energy usage, green buildings reduce both costs and carbon footprints, making them more sustainable in the long run. [IV]

        Water conservation is another focus of green buildings. These buildings are equipped with water-saving fixtures, such as low-flow faucets and dual-flush toilets, which reduce water consumption significantly. In some cases, green buildings also collect and reuse rainwater for non-potable purposes, such as irrigation and toilet flushing. This approach helps alleviate pressure on local water resources and reduces the environmental impact of water use.

        Although green buildings offer many advantages, they are often more expensive to construct due to the cost of sustainable materials and advanced technology. However, the long-term savings on energy and water bills can offset these initial costs. In addition, green buildings tend to have higher property values and attract environmentally conscious tenants, which can be advantageous for property owners.

        As more people become aware of the benefits of green buildings, demand for sustainable construction is expected to rise. Green buildings have the potential to transform the construction industry, reduce environmental impact, and create healthier, more sustainable communities. By embracing these practices, society can help pave the way toward a more sustainable and resilient future.

(Adapted from https://worldgbc.org)

Question 31: The word “incorporate” in paragraph 1 could best be replaced by ____________.

        A. attach                B. enclose                        C. insert                        D. integrate

Question 32: Where in paragraph 2 does the following sentence best fit?

This practice also benefits the environment by reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.

        A. [I]                        B. [III]                                C. [IV]                                D. [II]

Question 33: According to paragraph 3, which of the following is NOT a feature of green buildings aimed at conserving water?

        A. dual-flush toilets                                        B. rainwater collection

        C. low-flow faucets                                        D. energy-efficient lighting

Question 34: The word “alleviate” in paragraph 3 is OPPOSITE in meaning to ____________.

        A. reduce                B. soften                        C. ease                                D. worsen

Question 35: The word “they” in paragraph 4 refers to ____________.

        A. sustainable materials                                B. property values

        C. green buildings                                        D. construction costs

Question 36: Which of the following best summarizes the main idea of paragraph 4?

A. Sustainable materials and technology have made green buildings affordable for most property owners.

B. Green buildings have higher upfront costs, but their benefits can outweigh these expenses over time.

C. Green buildings attract more environmentally conscious tenants due to their low construction costs.

D. Advanced technology which is used in green buildings reduces the need for property management.

Question 37: Which of the following is TRUE according to the passage?

A. Green buildings are designed with energy efficiency and water conservation.

B. Property values are generally lower for green buildings due to high construction costs.

C. Green buildings are less relevant to renewable energy sources and water conservation.

D. Traditional buildings are better suited for environmentally conscious tenants.

Question 38: Which of the following best paraphrases the underlined sentence in paragraph 5?

A. In the long run, the money saved on energy and water can make up for the upfront expenses.

B. Future savings on energy and water cannot help solve the problem of initial costs.

C. Though it costs less at first, the higher utility bills in the long run can balance things out.

D. Savings on energy and water bills for a short time can pay back the early investment.

Question 39: Which of the following can be inferred from the passage?

A. As sustainability awareness grows, green buildings may become more common in construction.

B. Sustainable building practices have little impact on environmental protection and construction.

C. Because they are expensive, the construction of green buildings will be abandoned in the future.

D. Most green buildings are designed mainly to reduce costs rather than protect the environment.

Question 40: Which of the following best summarises the passage?

A. Green buildings focus primarily on reducing energy expenses but remain less effective in addressing broader issues like water and resource conservation.

B. Green buildings provide environmental benefits, but the need for constant maintenance and repairs limits their appeal for modern developers.

C. Green buildings minimize environmental impact and, despite high initial costs, offer long-term benefits that pave the way for a sustainable future.

D. Although green buildings lower energy costs, their high construction prices often make them an impractical choice for long-term investment.