Read the 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 2...

Read the 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 22 to 29.

Smart waste management in modern cities

        As urban populations continue to rise, cities are under increasing pressure to manage waste more efficiently. Traditional waste collection systems often rely on fixed schedules and manual monitoring, which can lead to overflowing bins, unnecessary fuel use, and higher operational costs. To address these problems, many cities are adopting smart waste management solutions that combine digital technology with data analysis.

        Smart waste systems use sensor-equipped bins to monitor fill levels in real time. When a bin is nearly full, the system automatically sends an alert to waste collection teams. This allows routes to be planned dynamically rather than following rigid schedules. As a result, collection vehicles travel fewer kilometres, reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. What was once a reactive process has now become data-driven and highly efficient.

        Beyond operational benefits, smart waste management also supports environmental protection. By preventing waste overflow, cities reduce the risk of pollution in public spaces and waterways. In addition, data collected from waste patterns helps authorities identify opportunities to improve recycling programs. For example, if organic waste levels rise in certain areas, targeted composting initiatives can be introduced. Because waste is sorted and handled more effectively, landfill use declines over time.

        Public awareness plays an important role in the success of these systems. Mobile applications inform residents about collection times, recycling guidelines, and waste reduction tips. This encourages households to change their disposal habits and take greater responsibility for the waste they produce. When citizens actively participate, smart waste management becomes not only a technological solution but also a shared environmental effort.

                                                                                              (Adapted from https://www.worldbank.org)

Question 22. The word “pressure” in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to ____________.

        A. interest                B. stress                        C. excitement                        D. curiosity