雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of sustainable urban development has evolved significantly over the past decade, moving beyond mere environmental concerns to encompass social equity and economic viability. Scholars argue that truly sustainable cities must integrate green infrastructure, such as parks and permeable pavements, with affordable housing and accessible public transport. However, a persistent tension exists between economic growth and ecological preservation, as developers often prioritize short-term profits over long-term resilience. Recent studies suggest that participatory planning, where local communities are actively involved in decision-making, can mitigate this conflict by aligning projects with diverse needs. Yet, such approaches require substantial institutional support and time, which many municipalities lack. Consequently, despite growing awareness, the gap between sustainability rhetoric and practical implementation remains wide, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions of the Global South.