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Most people would probably want something done about the worst effects of climate change - or any other problem, for that matter. To fill in the first blank, therefore, we need a word that means something like address or mitigate. Descry is not a good choice; it is not enough to discern or perceive the worst effects, and it is not clear how reducing emissions would accomplish this in any case. It is also hard to imagine how one could propitiate (appease or conciliate) climate change - generally speaking, only people are capable of being appeased. Forestall (prevent or anticipate ) is the correct answer.

For the second blank, we need a word that explains why the companies mentioned in the passage feel they cannot comply with the law. Meretricious does not make sense; surely even a law that is tawdry or based on pretense can be followed, and in any case, there is nothing in the passage suggesting that the program is simply for show. Amorphous is slightly more plausible. It could very well be difficult to comply with a law that is unorganized or lacking definite shape. However, the final sentence should tell you that onerous (burdensome) is a better choice; concrete companies feel that cutting emissions is essentially impracticable.

The final blank requires a word that describes the relationship between concrete makers and the new law. There is no reason, based on this passage, to think that they are more cognizant (aware) of the law than any other company affected by it. Devoid simply does not make sense in this sentence; it means not possessing, and laws are not generally things that can be possessed. This leaves you with wary (cautious towards or leery of), which is the correct answer.