Today in our environmental science lecture, we will discuss urban green spaces. A recent study in Melbourne found that increasing tree coverage in city parks can reduce local temperatures by up to 4 degrees Celsius during heatwaves. However, the effect varies depending on the type of trees. Native species with broad leaves provide more shade and evapotranspiration, while conifers, though evergreen, offer less cooling. The study also noted that maintenance costs for green spaces are often underestimated, as watering and pruning require significant resources. Interestingly, residents reported higher satisfaction in neighborhoods with more diverse plant life, even if the total green area was smaller. Therefore, city planners should prioritize biodiversity over sheer size when designing new parks.