2025年5月17日「モバイル英語学習」第879号(英語のエッセイ): Will Bluefin Tuna Disappear Forever? A Fishing Village’s Warning

Notes
tuna – マグロ;
overfishing- 過剰漁獲
spawning – 産卵
regulation – 規制
sustainably-持続可能に
generation – 世代


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Kanji Nishi used to catch many big bluefin tuna near Iki Island. But now, there are almost none left. In 2005, fishermen there caught 358 tons of tuna. In 2014, they only caught 23 tons. Many young fishermen have quit. Experts say overfishing is the main reason. Most tuna are caught before they can grow up and have babies. This is hurting the population.

Japan made some fishing rules, but experts say they are not strong enough. The rules are based on old data, and many fish are still being caught in spawning areas. Some people and companies want to fish more sustainably, but the government has close ties with big fishing businesses. This makes it hard to change.

Some local fishermen started a self-ban in summer to protect the fish. But real change needs stronger government action. If nothing is done, future generations may never see bluefin tuna in the sea.
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(Please read All at sea: Lack of regulations hurting tuna stocks for details. Image from Japan Times.)

2025年5月3日「モバイル英語学習」第877号(英語のエッセイ): The Academy Opens the Door to AI Films

Notes:
nomination – ノミネート;
strike – ストライキ;
emotional – 感情的な、人の心を動かすような感情に関係すること

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The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has made a new rule. Now, films made with AI can win Oscars. They said using AI will not make it easier or harder to get a nomination. But they will still look at how much humans worked on the film.

Some Oscar-winning movies this year already used AI, like fixing an actor’s accent and making singing voices better. The Academy also said that members must watch all the nominated films before they vote. Many people are excited about AI, but some artists and actors are worried. They are afraid AI might take their jobs. After the Hollywood strikes in 2023, new rules were made to protect them.

Some actors like AI, but others warn that it can be used badly. Also, experts say AI is not good at making emotional stories yet.
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