Comprensión auditiva TOEFL

🎧 Transcripción de audio

Narrator: Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're going to talk about urban heat islands, a phenomenon where cities are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. This happens mainly because of the materials we use to build our cities. Concrete and asphalt absorb and retain heat from the sun during the day, and then release it slowly at night. In contrast, natural surfaces like soil and vegetation reflect more sunlight and cool down faster. Another factor is the lack of trees and green spaces, which reduces shade and evaporative cooling. Additionally, waste heat from vehicles, air conditioners, and industrial processes adds to the effect. So, what can we do? One solution is to increase green roofs—rooftops covered with plants. These can reduce building temperatures and lower energy needs. Another is to use reflective materials for pavements and roofs. These strategies not only cool the city but also improve air quality and reduce energy consumption. However, implementing them requires planning and investment. The key is to understand that urban design choices directly affect local climate.