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. Central to this paradigm is the integration of green infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs, and permeable pavements, which mitigate stormwater runoff and reduce the urban heat island effect. However, implementation often faces financial and political barriers, as initial costs can be high and long-term benefits are not immediately visible to policymakers. Moreover, equitable access to these spaces remains a challenge, as disadvantaged neighborhoods frequently lack adequate green amenities. Proponents argue that a holistic approach, combining environmental, social, and economic objectives, is essential for cities to achieve resilience and improve quality of life for all residents. Critics caution, however, that without rigorous evaluation, such initiatives may merely serve as symbolic gestures rather than substantive change.