Question

Read the following passage:

In the southern canals of Mexico City, the ancient agricultural system of *chinampas*—artificial islands built on shallow lakebeds—is experiencing a quiet but significant revival. Developed by the Aztecs, this highly productive farming method once sustained a vast empire. Over the centuries, however, urban sprawl, water pollution, and the introduction of invasive species have pushed this unique ecosystem to the brink of collapse.

In response, a dedicated coalition of local farmers, biologists, and urban planners has mobilized to restore these historic plots. Their approach blends ancestral ecological knowledge with contemporary agroecological techniques. Instead of relying on chemical fertilizers, they use native mud and organic matter to enrich the soil, creating a self-sustaining cycle that filters local water and fosters biodiversity.

Critics often dismiss these efforts, claiming that the labor-intensive nature of *chinampa* farming makes it impossible to compete with the high yields of industrial agriculture. Yet, this criticism misses the broader picture. The true value of the *chinampas* extends far beyond mere crop volume. They represent a model of climate resilience, local food sovereignty, and cultural preservation. In a world increasingly threatened by ecological instability and corporate food monopolies, the resurgence of Xochimilco's floating gardens suggests that the path to a sustainable future may require looking back at the wisdom of the past.

Based on the passage, which of the following best describes the author's primary purpose in writing about the revival of the *chinampas*?