雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of sustainable urban development has gained significant traction in recent decades, driven by concerns over climate change and resource depletion. A key principle is the integration of green spaces within city planning, which not only improves air quality but also enhances mental well-being. However, scholars like Beatley (2012) argue that merely adding parks is insufficient; cities must adopt holistic approaches, such as promoting compact design and mixed-use zoning, to reduce car dependency. Furthermore, community participation is critical, as top-down initiatives often fail to address local needs. Critics, though, point out that sustainable measures can increase property values, leading to gentrification and displacement of low-income residents. Thus, achieving true sustainability requires balancing environmental goals with social equity, a challenge that remains unresolved in many urban contexts.