Narrator: Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're going to talk about a surprising source of pollution: your laundry. When you wash synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, tiny fibers, called microfibers, are shed and go down the drain. These fibers are too small to be caught by most wastewater treatment plants, so they end up in rivers and oceans. Once there, they can be ingested by marine life, entering the food chain. Studies have found microfibers in fish, shellfish, and even drinking water. The problem is significant—one single load of laundry can release hundreds of thousands of fibers. However, there are some solutions. For example, using a washing machine filter or a laundry bag designed to catch fibers can reduce emissions by up to 80%. Also, washing clothes less frequently and using cold water can help. But the most effective approach might be to change the way we produce fabrics, making them more durable and less prone to shedding. So, while individual actions matter, we also need industry-level changes.
❓ Question What is the main problem the professor discusses?
A. The high cost of washing machines
B. Microfibers from synthetic clothes polluting water systems
C. The overuse of cold water in laundry
D. The shortage of wastewater treatment plants
✅ Correct Answer
Microfibers from synthetic clothes polluting water systems
TOEFL Listening Tips
Skim the questions first to predict the content
Watch for signal words in lectures and conversations (however, actually, in fact)
For main idea questions, focus on the beginning; for detail questions, focus on examples and data
For attitude questions, pay attention to the speaker's tone and word choice
Take notes on keywords; don't try to write down every word
