Today in our environmental science lecture, we'll discuss urban green spaces. A recent study in Melbourne found that increasing tree canopy cover by 20% could reduce summer temperatures by up to 2 degrees Celsius. However, the researchers noted that this effect is only significant when trees are planted in clusters, not isolated along streets. Additionally, they highlighted that parks with native species require less water and support more local biodiversity than those with exotic plants. The study recommends prioritizing green roofs in high-density areas, as they provide cooling without occupying ground space. So, the key takeaway is that strategic placement and species selection matter more than total area.