The concept of sustainable urban development has evolved significantly over the past decade, moving beyond mere environmental concerns to encompass economic and social dimensions. Recent studies indicate that compact city designs, which promote higher density and mixed land use, can reduce carbon emissions by up to 30% compared to sprawling layouts. However, critics argue that such density may exacerbate social inequality if affordable housing is not integrated. Furthermore, the success of sustainable initiatives often hinges on local governance structures and community engagement, as top-down approaches tend to fail in addressing unique neighborhood needs. Thus, while compactness offers a viable path toward sustainability, its implementation requires a balanced strategy that prioritizes inclusivity and participatory planning.
❓ According to the passage, what is a potential drawback of compact city designs?
A. They increase carbon emissions significantly.
B. They may worsen social inequality without affordable housing.
C. They are ineffective in reducing environmental impact.
D. They discourage community participation in planning.
✅ 正确答案
They may worsen social inequality without affordable housing.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first