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

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

Question: Some people believe that urban green spaces are essential for improving air quality in cities, while others argue that they have little or no impact on air pollution levels. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Model Answer:

The importance of urban green spaces in contributing to improved air quality is a topic that has gained attention in recent years. While some argue that the presence of green spaces in cities does not significantly affect air pollution levels, others firmly believe that they play a crucial role in this regard. In this essay, I will examine both these viewpoints and present my own opinion on the matter.

On one hand, it is argued that urban green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets, have minimal impact on air quality due to their relatively small size compared to the overall area of a city. Critics also point out that trees, which are often considered essential for improving air quality, can actually absorb pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), but they release these substances back into the atmosphere during a process called "photochemical smog." This means that while urban green spaces may not directly reduce pollution levels, their presence might not necessarily have a significant positive effect either.

On the other hand, proponents of urban green spaces contend that they play a vital role in improving air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the primary greenhouse gases responsible for global warming and climate change. Additionally, these green areas can help reduce temperatures in cities through a phenomenon known as the "heat island effect," which occurs when urban surfaces absorb and retain more heat than natural landscapes. As a result, this cooling effect may indirectly contribute to better air quality by reducing the need for energy-intensive heating systems.

Moreover, green spaces can also encourage increased biodiversity in cities, as they provide habitats for various species of plants, insects, and birds. This diversity not only contributes to a healthier ecosystem but may also help regulate local ecosystems, which could potentially have a positive impact on air quality over time.

In conclusion, while it is true that urban green spaces may not be solely responsible for improving air quality in cities, they undoubtedly play an essential role in mitigating some of the negative effects of pollution. The benefits provided by these green areas go beyond just absorbing pollutants; they also contribute to a healthier ecosystem and help combat climate change. Therefore, it is crucial that urban planners continue to prioritize the creation and preservation of green spaces within cities.

Score: Band 8.5 (The essay presents a clear and coherent argument on both sides of the issue, provides relevant examples, and offers a well-supported opinion. The language used is advanced and varied.)

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