Today in our environmental science lecture, we're discussing urban green spaces. A recent study in Melbourne found that parks and community gardens can reduce local temperatures by up to 3 degrees Celsius during heatwaves. However, the key factor is not the size of the green area, but its connectivity. Fragmented patches of greenery, even if large, are less effective than a network of small, interconnected gardens. This is because connected spaces allow better air flow and provide corridors for wildlife, which in turn helps maintain soil moisture and plant health. The study suggests that city planners should prioritize creating green corridors between existing parks, rather than focusing solely on expanding single large parks.