托福听力

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Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. Professor: Today we're talking about urban heat islands, a phenomenon where cities are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. This occurs because concrete, asphalt, and buildings absorb and re-emit solar heat more than natural landscapes do. Additionally, human activities like driving cars and running air conditioners generate waste heat. One major consequence is increased energy consumption for cooling, which leads to higher greenhouse gas emissions. Another issue is health risks, especially for vulnerable populations during heat waves. To mitigate these effects, cities are adopting strategies such as green roofs, which are covered with vegetation, and cool pavements that reflect more sunlight. These solutions not only lower temperatures but also improve air quality and manage stormwater. However, implementing them requires careful planning and investment. Some researchers argue that a combination of strategies, rather than a single approach, is most effective. So, as you can see, urban heat islands are a complex challenge that demands interdisciplinary solutions.