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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The role of urban green spaces in improving air quality

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Topic: The role of urban green spaces in improving air quality

Question: To what extent do urban green spaces contribute to the improvement of air quality in cities, and how effective are different types of green spaces in this respect?

Model Answer:

In recent years, the importance of urban green spaces in enhancing air quality has become increasingly evident. This essay will examine the role of urban green spaces in improving air quality, as well as the effectiveness of different types of green spaces. It will be argued that urban green spaces play a significant role in reducing air pollution levels, and various types of green spaces are effective in different ways.

Firstly, one of the primary ways in which urban green spaces contribute to improved air quality is through the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants. By absorbing these substances, green spaces help neutralize the harmful effects of air pollution on human health and the environment. This process is known as "carbon sequestration." Additionally, trees and plants in urban green spaces release oxygen into the atmosphere, which further aids in improving air quality.

Secondly, urban green spaces can also reduce the urban heat island effect, a phenomenon in which cities experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to the concentration of human activities, buildings, and infrastructure. The vegetation in green spaces absorbs sunlight and releases cooler temperatures back into the environment, helping mitigate the urban heat island effect and subsequently reducing the need for air conditioning. This decrease in energy consumption leads to a reduction in emissions from power plants, ultimately improving overall air quality.

Thirdly, green spaces can play a role in preventing the formation of smog, a type of air pollution that is particularly prevalent in urban areas with high levels of traffic and industrial activities. The presence of vegetation in urban environments can act as a natural filter, trapping pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and sulfur dioxide (SO2). This reduces the concentration of these harmful substances in the atmosphere, thereby improving air quality.

Different types of green spaces are effective in different ways. For example, large parks with a variety of trees and vegetation can absorb significant amounts of CO2 and other pollutants. On the other hand, smaller community gardens and green roofs can help reduce urban heat island effects and prevent smog formation by trapping particulate matter and other pollutants. Urban wetlands can also play a role in improving air quality by removing pollutants through a process known as phytoremediation, where plants absorb, store, or break down pollutants.

In conclusion, urban green spaces are essential in improving air quality in cities. They help neutralize harmful pollutants, reduce the urban heat island effect, and prevent smog formation. Different types of green spaces are effective in different ways, highlighting the importance of incorporating a diverse range of urban green spaces into city planning and design.

Overall Score: Band 9 (Expert User)

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