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 emphasized that the placement of trees matters more than the total number. For instance, trees planted along streets and around buildings provide the greatest cooling effect, while those in large parks have less impact on nearby residential areas. The study also noted that maintenance costs are often underestimated, but the long-term health benefits for residents, such as reduced heat-related illnesses, justify the investment.