雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of 'green infrastructure' has gained significant traction in urban planning as cities grapple with the dual challenges of climate change and population growth. Unlike conventional gray infrastructure, which relies on centralized systems such as concrete drainage pipes, green infrastructure employs natural processes to manage stormwater, reduce heat islands, and improve air quality. Examples include permeable pavements, urban forests, and green roofs. A key advantage is its multifunctionality: a single park can simultaneously mitigate flooding, provide recreational space, and support biodiversity. However, critics argue that the initial costs and maintenance requirements are often underestimated, and that in densely built urban areas, space constraints limit implementation. Research suggests that integrating green infrastructure with existing gray systems yields the most resilient outcomes, yet policy frameworks often lag behind technological innovation, creating a barrier to widespread adoption. Thus, while promising, green infrastructure requires careful planning and sustained investment to realize its full potential.