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Urban green spaces

Cities are not only built from concrete and glass—they also depend on living spaces that help people breathe, move, and recover from daily stress. Urban green spaces such as parks, tree-lined streets, and small community gardens cool neighborhoods by providing shade and releasing moisture into the air. This can reduce the “urban heat island” effect, where dense buildings and asphalt trap heat. Beyond temperature, green areas support mental health. Short walks among trees are linked to lower stress and better attention, which matters for students and workers alike. Green spaces can also improve air quality by capturing some airborne particles. However, the benefits are not shared equally. In many cities, high-quality parks are concentrated in wealthier districts, while crowded neighborhoods have fewer safe places to exercise. Planning greener cities requires more than planting trees. Local governments need maintenance budgets, accessible design, and community input so parks feel welcoming and safe. When done well, even small patches of greenery can bring measurable benefits to daily life.