TOEFLリスニング

🎧 リスニング原文

Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. The professor is discussing the concept of urban heat islands. Professor: Urban areas tend to be warmer than the surrounding rural areas, a phenomenon known as the urban heat island effect. This happens because materials like 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 cool down more quickly. Another contributing factor is the lack of trees and green spaces in cities, which reduces shade and evaporative cooling. Additionally, human activities such as driving cars, running air conditioners, and industrial processes generate waste heat. The temperature difference can be significant, sometimes several degrees Celsius. To mitigate this effect, some cities have implemented green roofs, planted more trees, and used lighter-colored paving materials that reflect more sunlight. These strategies not only lower temperatures but also reduce energy consumption and improve air quality. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for urban planning and public health, as higher temperatures can exacerbate heat-related illnesses and increase energy demand during summer months.