Today, in our environmental science lecture, we're discussing the impact of urban green spaces on local climate. A recent study in Melbourne found that increasing tree coverage by 20% could reduce surface temperatures by up to 4 degrees Celsius during summer heatwaves. However, this effect is most significant in densely built areas with limited natural shade. The researchers also noted that while parks help with cooling, they require substantial water resources, which is a challenge in drought-prone regions. Therefore, they recommend prioritizing native drought-resistant species for sustainable urban planning.