雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of 'green infrastructure' has gained traction among urban planners as a means to address climate change and biodiversity loss. Unlike conventional gray infrastructure, such as concrete drainage systems, green infrastructure integrates natural elements like parks, green roofs, and permeable pavements into city design. Proponents argue that these systems not only manage stormwater more sustainably but also provide co-benefits, including improved air quality and enhanced mental well-being for residents. However, critics caution that the effectiveness of green infrastructure is highly context-dependent, varying with local climate, soil conditions, and maintenance capacity. A recent study in Manchester found that while green roofs reduced runoff by up to 40% during heavy rainfall, their performance dropped significantly in drought-prone areas due to water stress on vegetation. This suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient, and planners must evaluate ecological and socio-economic factors before implementation.