The concept of 'green infrastructure' has gained significant traction in urban planning as a means to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Unlike traditional gray infrastructure, which relies on concrete and pipes, green infrastructure integrates natural systems such as parks, green roofs, and permeable pavements to manage stormwater, reduce urban heat islands, and enhance biodiversity. A key advantage is its multifunctionality: a single green space can simultaneously provide flood control, recreational opportunities, and carbon sequestration. However, critics argue that the benefits are often overstated, particularly in dense cities where land scarcity limits the scale of implementation. Moreover, maintenance costs and long-term performance under extreme weather events remain uncertain. Despite these challenges, proponents suggest that adaptive management and community engagement can improve resilience. Ultimately, the effectiveness of green infrastructure depends not only on technical design but also on policy support and public acceptance, making it a socio-technical endeavor rather than a purely engineering solution.
❓ ¿Cuál es el punto principal del autor sobre la infraestructura verde?
A. A. Siempre es superior a la infraestructura gris tradicional en todos los contextos urbanos.
B. B. Su éxito depende tanto de factores técnicos como de un apoyo social y político más amplio.
C. C. Es demasiado caro e impracticable para la mayoría de las ciudades densas.
D. D. Sirve principalmente para fines estéticos más que para beneficios funcionales.
✅ 正确答案
B. Its success relies on both technical factors and broader social and political support.
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