Bunuel
Urban Planner: The installation of green roofs in urban areas can reduce the overall city temperature during summer months, thereby reducing the need for air conditioning and energy consumption. However, despite their benefits, the widespread adoption of green roofs has been slow. This is because the initial cost of installing green roofs is considerably high, and because __________.
Which of the following, if true, most logically completes the urban planner’s argument?
(A) there are sufficient numbers of skilled laborers available to install green roofs
(B) green roof materials are often sourced from suppliers who are located far from urban centers
(C) tax incentives for green construction projects are commonly available in urban areas
(D) traditional roofing solutions are generally less expensive and quicker to install than green roofs
(E) green roofs typically last longer than traditional roofing materials, thus potentially saving money over time
GMAT Club Official Explanation:
Correct Answer: D. traditional roofing solutions are generally less expensive and quicker to install than green roofs
We are looking for an answer choice that would provide another reason for slower adoption (something that's hindering and preventing green roof success). This choice supports the existing reason (high initial costs) by providing another practical and relevant reason why widespread adoption is slow: the cheaper and quicker alternatives available in the form of traditional roofing. It is a great fit.
A. there are sufficient numbers of skilled laborers available to install green roofsThis is the opposite of what we are looking for (strengthens the argument for adoption). This statement supports the adoption of green roofs rather than explain why it's slow, making it contrary to the argument’s direction. Eliminate.
B. green roof materials are often sourced from suppliers who are located far from urban centersThis answer choice is too weak and forces you to make several assumptions in addition, which are red flags on the GMAT. The minute you are forced to walk out on ice and make this assumption, you should immediately start being suspicious. One big assumption you are forced to make is - why sourcing materials from suppliers who are located far from urban centers a problem? Wood, rock, glass and every other building material is sources from forests, quaries, factories, etc which are far away from urban centers, yet somehow construction companies manage to procure them and it is not a problem. It is not like someone goes to pick up a bottle of milk and also grabs a green roof at their neighborhood store. This "problem" is a dubious claim. So what kind of a problem is it? how big? is it logistical? financial? or a fake problem? Well, we do not know, so we are unable to evaluate the impact of these logistical challenges without knowing more about why they would be a challenge. Eliminate.
C. tax incentives for green construction projects are commonly available in urban areasThis is the opposite of what we are looking for (strengthens the argument for adoption). This choice suggests a condition that should encourage the adoption of green roofs rather than slow it, contradicting the needed completion for explaining slow adoption. Eliminate.
E. green roofs typically last longer than traditional roofing materials, thus potentially saving money over timeThis is the opposite of what we are looking for (strengthens the argument for adoption). This option provides a benefit of green roofs, which would support their adoption rather than explain the slow pace. It conflicts with the argument's focus on obstacles. Eliminate.