Today in our environmental science lecture, we will discuss the impact of urban green spaces. Recent studies show that parks and community gardens can reduce city temperatures by up to 2 degrees Celsius. They also improve air quality by absorbing pollutants. However, the professor emphasizes that the location of these green areas is crucial. For instance, trees planted along busy roads are more effective in filtering particulate matter than those in isolated parks. Moreover, green roofs on buildings provide insulation, cutting energy costs by 15% in summer. Despite these benefits, funding for such projects often faces budget cuts, so city planners must prioritize areas with high population density.