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4E14E2 15 May 2024 (Physical Environment_Buildings)

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Living in any area has unique advantages and disadvantages that shape our daily experiences and overall satisfaction. Key positive aspects include access to amenities like parks, restaurants, shopping centers, and cultural attractions, which enhance quality of life. A strong sense of community, safety, and efficient transportation options also contribute to an area’s desirability. Natural beauty, such as clean air, scenic views, and green spaces, promotes well-being and offers a peaceful escape from urban life.

However, challenges often include noise pollution from traffic and construction, environmental pollution, high living costs, and extreme weather conditions. These factors can disrupt peace, pose health risks, strain budgets, and affect daily activities. Traffic congestion further adds to frustrations, making commuting time-consuming and stressful.

In conclusion, living in any area involves balancing these positive and negative factors. Understanding and navigating these complexities helps residents better appreciate their local environments.

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POINT: I like/dislike the area because [reason 1]

EXPLAIN & ELABORATE using 5 Senses

EXPLAIN & ELABORATE using Figurative Language

EXPLAIN & ELABORATE using Writer's Speech, Actions and Thoughts

LINK EEEs to the POINT

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P- one aspect I like about living in my neighbourhood, novena, is that it boasts impressive green spaces despite its urban setting.

E- one example is novena park. novena park offers a variety of amenities such as walking trails, playgrounds, sport facilities and novena square.

E- these green oases provide a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of life, allowing people to relax, exercise and connect with nature.

L- the abundance of greenery in my neighbourhood makes the area a more pleasant and sustainable place to live in and is why I like my neighbourhood.

P- another aspect i like about my neighbourhood is that it is a convenient and accessible location.

E- novena is served by novena mrt station and farrer park mrt station m, which connects to major lines and makes it easy to get around the city and to school. additionally, there are several bus services available that proved the same function as the mrt.

E- this convenience is a huge advantage as i can quickly travel to other parts of singapore for school, leisure, or to relax. the accessibility also makes it easy for friends and family to visit me and for me to visit them.

L- overall, the convenience of my neighbourhoods location makes it an attractive place to live, and thus i like my neighbourhood.

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I dislaike the place I live in due to the never-ending noise and pollution. Traffic and construction noise never stops. The air is filled with exhaust fumes, feeling dense and gritty. The view is mostly concrete buildings, with little greenery. It's like being stuck in a noisy, polluted chaos, with noise like a relentless beast. I often think, "This place is suffocating," while navigating through crowded streets. The constant noise interrupts my thoughts, and I long to escape to a quieter place. The excessive noise and pollution overwhelm my senses, making the area feel chaotic and stifling, which significantly affects my daily life.

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P-One aspect I like about living in Ang Mo Kio, Singapore, is the abundance of beautiful parks.

E-For instance, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park offers vast green spaces, playgrounds, and walking trails that are perfect for families and individuals seeking outdoor activities:

E-These parks not only provide a serene escape from urban life but also host various community events that bring residents together, fostering a strong sense of community.

L: However, the frequent noise from nearby construction projects can sometimes disturb the tranquility of the area.

P- Another reason why i like the area i live in is because of the convenience of having numerous supermarkets and shops which is a significant advantage.

E-For instance, major grocery stores like NTUC FairPrice and Giant, as well as a variety of local shops, are easily accessible throughout the neighborhood.

E-This accessibility allows residents to quickly and conveniently purchase daily necessities without traveling far, saving time and effort.

L- Despite this convenience, the crowded shopping areas during peak hours can sometimes make the experience less enjoyable.

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I disagree with that statement .

This is because these green spaces has many more important functions then to beautify an area.

Firstly,green spaces help to reduce carbon emissions and give off oxygen by photosynthesis. As carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas , replacing carbon dioxide with oxygen can help to lower temperature and slow down on climate change . This is important as climate change has made a big impact on daily life. Since singapore temperature has been rising green spaces helps many living creatures and us human beings by reducing carbon dioxide and give of oxygen.

Secondly, these green spaces also act as natural habitats towards animals such as squirrels and many different species of birds. These animals built their nest on top of trees. Green spaces give them a home to live in and encourages the diverse variety of different bird species living in our nation.

In conclusion , green spaces does not only serve to beautify an area. I feel that green spaces beautifying an area is just an additionally benefit as the green spaces is mainly just to help us slow down climate change and is also an important place for animals .

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P-I disagree While green spaces like parks and reserves do contribute significantly to the aesthetic appeal of an area.

E-their benefits go beyond just beautification. They also play crucial roles in environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, public health, and recreational opportunities for communities.

E- Green spaces can help mitigate urban heat islands, improve air quality, provide habitats for wildlife, and promote physical and mental well-being among residents.

L- Therefore, their value extends far beyond mere beautification—they are essential components of healthy and sustainable urban environments.

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I disagree.

Firstly, i disagree because not only does green spaces beautify an area, it also serves as shade for people commuting or walking through the area. This helps them get shade from the blistering heat, especially in a country like Singapore. There is a park near my home that i always go to whenever i have spare time or just feel like walking around. Secondly, green spaces can be used to reduced carbon pollution, especially in an industrialised environment like Singapore, where cars and buildings take up majority of the country's land. The plants take up carbon dioxide and give out oxygen during the day as they photosynthesize which cools the surrounding area. However, some might agree that green spaces only beautify an area. This might be because they only see plants as an object to make things look prettier, or whatever reason they think. Once, i read an article about the benefits of living near green spaces like parks. I dont remember the exact details of it, but it says that residents living near parks and/or green spaces usually tend to have a happier life compared to those not living near green spaces. All in all, I believe that green spaces, such as parks, are not only there to beautify places.

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i disagree with this statement.

They significantly improve air quality by filtering pollutants and producing oxygen. Additionally, green spaces are essential for public health, as they offer recreational opportunities that encourage physical activity, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Furthermore, these areas support biodiversity by providing habitats for various plant and animal species.

The impact of green spaces extends far beyond their visual appeal. The improvement in air quality contributes to the overall health of residents by reducing respiratory issues and other pollution-related health problems. Physical activity opportunities offered by parks and reserves are crucial for mental and physical well-being, leading to a healthier, more active community. Biodiversity supported by green spaces ensures ecological balance and the sustainability of local ecosystems, which are vital for environmental health.

Therefore, it is clear that green spaces serves multiple roles in urban and rural areas, offering environmental, health, and ecological benefits that go well beyond mere beautification.

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I disagree with the statement as i think that green spaces does not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a neighbourhood or city, their benefits extend far beyond mere beautification.

Firstly, green spaces serves as an essential habitat for wildlife which helps to preserve biodiversity. For example, parks like the lower seletar reservoir park in singapore does not only have stunning landscapes but also have vital ecosystems that support diverse wildlife populations. The reservoir provide a shelter for various plant and animal species, including those that may be endangered or threatened by urban development.

Secondly, green spaces foster social cohesion and community engagement by providing gathering places for people of all ages. For example, the Nee Soon Central Community  Park has a lot of amenities for people of all ages to enjoy. This allows them to come together and exercise or enjoy the green spaces in the park together which also helps foster a better relationship within the neighbourhood.

However, others may argue that green spaces are only built by the government to beautify the country and attract tourists.

In conclusion, I think that green spaces play a very crucial role in environmental conservation, public health promotion, and social interaction. From providing habitats for wildlife to offering spaces for recreation and relaxation for residents around the neighbourhood, green spaces enrich communities in diverse and meaningful ways. Therefore, it would be wrong to say that their significance are only solely in terms of beautification, as their multifaceted benefits make them indispensable components of sustainable urban environments.

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personally, I disagree

Firstly, green spaces offer more than just the aesthetic appeal as it improves our health and wellbeing. When residents access these green spaces, it improves their mental health while reducing stress levels. By visiting such places, they are able to engage in activities such as sports, increasing their physical activity. For example, in Yishun Park, I often see people of all ages engaging in some sort of exercise including jogging, tai chi and team sports. Overall, this makes them healthier and more relaxed.

Secondly, green spaces serve as gathering spaces for communities. People then gather and come together to socialise and connect with others. For example, a group of elderly seniors always gather together in the park nearby my house and exercise together. They seemed to enjoy each other’s company and as always chit chatting about their days.

However, others may agree that green spaces only serve to beautify the area since they think its main purpose is to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the surroundings by adding elements such as trees, plants and flowers, improving the overall perception of the area.

In conclusion, I think green spaces have a much important role than just beautifying an area but to improve the health and social interactions among residents.

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P: I stay in Toa Payoh and one thing I like about the area is the amenities around me.

E: For example would be the supermarkets, convenience stores, a hawker centre and a place to jog and cycle beside the kallang river.

E: As it is convenient for me to visit the kallang river, it encourages me to exercise frequently by cycling with my family during our free time. I also get to enjoy nature and greenery. Whenever I am there, I spot different birds I normally see such as chickens and hornbills as well as different fishes caught by fishermen.

E: It is also easy for my family to buy groceries at the supermarkets and convenience stores near our house. Furthermore, we will never be hungry as we could always buy food from the hawker centre to fill our stomachs.

L: Therefore, I like the amenities around the area I live as it is accessible for me in doing and getting the things I want without traveling any further than my neighbourhood.

P:  One thing I dislike about the area I live in is the rat infestation in Toa Payoh.

E: My neighbours, family and I have seen a lot of rats recently. Most of them were found in the neighbourhood dustbins, playgrounds and in the drains.

E: For me, I am very scared of rats and I always fear of roaming around in my neighbourhood at night as they have been mostly active at night. I could hear their squeaks and even saw them scuttling across the pathway in front of me.

E: Moreover, rats carry different viruses and bacteria that could infect people around them. In my neighbourhood, NEA have been seeking improved methods to address the rodent issue. Together with the residents, we have been practicing good hygiene and keeping our surrounding clean.

L: Therefore, the rat infestation is dangerous and could affect our health. With our continuous efforts in preventing the growing population of rats, I hope the rat infestation will get better soon.

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I disagree. Firstly, places such as parks and reserves can help us to release any stress we have. We can go to these places and have a walk to induce a healthier lifestyle and therefore a way to reduce stress. Example, when the exam seasons are around i would often go for walks around the parks near my house as i find this comforting.

Secondly, parks and reserves are also a place where many biodiversity are conserved. Places like park and reserves serve as place for biodiversity to survive in and they are crucial for keeping the earth sustainable. Example, without these places we might suffer an even greater rid of more animals going extinct.

However others might argue that parks and reserves are places to beautify the area. As parks and reserves have aesthetically pleasing landscape and since not many people enjoy going to parks and reserves it is slowly forgotten and abandoned.

All in all, parks and reserve does not only serve to beautify an area as it has various ways to be used.

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I dislikes the place I lived in

Firstly, the place I live in is high cost of living and I also not a citizen of the place. I am only a permanent resident which means I have to pay more funds for my education, food expenses

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I disagree that green spaces only serves as a beautify an area.

Green spaces not only appeal to our eyes, but it can give mental and physical benefits to humans. Green spaces have a calming effect that can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression. For example, as a student, I often feel stress and overwhelmed while studying for upcoming exams. However, I realized that going out and take a walk at a garden has helped to relieve my stress. Spending time in this area has allowed me to disconnect from study, to breathe and enjoy the nature around me. As a result, I return back to studying feeling refreshed, more focus and better manage my responsibilities. Being exposed to Green spaces not only enhance people's mental well-being but also improves their overall quality of life.

However, people may argue that green spaces only serves to beautify a place. While green spaces offer numerous benefits, there can be challenges or negative aspects associated with them. In urban areas, there can be competing demands for lands use, leading to conflicts between preserving green spaces and developing infrastructure or housing. Despite the potential challenges, proactive management and community involvement can help mitigate negative impacts and maximize the benefits of green spaces for residents and the environment.

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I disagree with this statement. Green spaces provide a myriad of significant advantages. Firstly, it benefits people socially. Parks and reserves serve as communal spaces where people can gather, socialise, and participate in community events, fostering social cohesion and a sense of community. For example, there is always a group of old women who meet weekly to do exercises at the park near my house. I see the smiles on their faces and them interacting happily with each other. Therefore, green spaces can be a good place where many people from different areas can meet.

Secondly, it improves our health and well-being. Access to green spaces is linked to improved mental health, reduced stress levels, and increased physical activity. They offer a place for exercise, recreation, and relaxation, promoting overall well-being. As an example, I will sometimes go to the park near my house to just take a walk and breathe in the fresh air. It makes me let go of my worries, even just for a litte while. As a result, green spaces can be a place of comfort to people.

However, there may be others who argue that green spaces are only there to enhance the visual appeal of urban and suburban environments, providing pleasant and attractive landscapes that can uplift the mood of residents and visitors.

Despite this, I still disagree that green spaces are only made to beautify an area as to some people, they see beyond that and it becomes something to special to them.

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I disagree that green spaces only serve to beautify and area. Firstly, green spaces bring many benefits to the environment, one is playing a crucial role in biodiversity conservation by providing a habitat for a wide range of animals. For example, Bishan Park serves as a home for animals like squirrels and otters. These animals live up in the trees or near the small ponds. Therefore, I feel that green spaces not only serve to beautify an area, but also provide a home for the animals there.

Secondly, green spaces can serve as an area where people can relax after an exhausting day. Some people may find the sounds of the leaves swaying in the wind calming, which is a way for them to relax. For example, when I get stress because of the heavy workload in school, I would take a walk in the park listening to music while I enjoy the breeze, as it helps me relax and take my mind of my school work. Therefore, not only do green spaces serve to beautify an area, they also serve as a peaceful area for people to de-stress.

However, others may argue that green spaces only serve to beautify the area.

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Stand - I believe that Green spaces are not only uses for decorations.

Point - Green spaces can be used for leisure or a place to relax.

Evidence - Green spaces like MacRitchie Reservoir help provide a MacRitchie trail to aid in exercising and to see the nature and around the whole Reservoir. There are different types of trails for those who are not the casual trail seekers or beginners.

Example - I went for one of the trails during the holidays in 2023. I found it fun and interesting! I saw so many animals like birds like the Blue-rumped Parrot and reptiles like the Monitor Lizard when I went on the trail. It was exhausting but nontheless exhilarating!

Explanation - Relaxing helps to calm the nerves in your body during a blood boiling day.

For example, too much homework from school or irritating people from work.

Going to this MacRitchie trail will allow you to go at your own pace and time.

" Let Nature be your therapist. " This quotes is what I live to as I usually go out during a bad day and walk around MacRitchie to cool off hot steam.

Link - Therefore, I do not believe that Green spaces are not only for decorative purposes but to take your mind away from the pressure of the world.

Point - Green spaces are not only used to beautify a space but they are used to reduce the Harmful Carbon Emissions and Greenhouse gases. produced by burning of fossil fuels.

Evidence - Trees reduce greenhouse gases when they take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in the wood. This helps to filter out impurities in the air and allow us to breathe in the oxygen we need to survive.

Evidence - There are 1 million trees currently planted in North America. Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, United States through Team Trees Sponsored by Mr Beast. The Mississippi Delta was once a 24-million-acre forested wetland. Today only 4.4 million forested acres remain, mostly in small patches, leading to water quality and habitat issues. Tree planting efforts will improve critical habitat for threatened and endangered species and protect the water quality of the rivers and streams within the delta.

Explanation: They are also known to improve both air and water quality by absorbing pollutants, intercepting particulates, releasing oxygen, reducing ozone levels and reducing soil erosion. Trees are an asset for stormwater management.

Link - Therefore, I do not believe that Green Spaces are used only for beautification but to help restore the ecosystem we humans are destroying.

Alt. Pov (Disagree) Point - However others may disagree that Green spaces are used to make an area more lively and colourful.

Example - Trees can be used to make an area beautiful due to their green colour characteristic called chlorophyll which is green to absorb sunlight for photosynthesis. Trees also change colour due to season which makes it more colourful. Light Green leaves in spring, Orange or Brown leaves in Autumn, Falling Orange and Brown leaves in fall and White in winter with snow.

Evidence - Russia and Finland both have apartments almost like our Housing Development Block in Singapore but have no paint nor colour. So green spaces like parks filled with trees and flowers have to act as a decoration and use it to make the place more plesant to look at.

Explanation - Without the lack of colour in buildings, they tend to look dull. So that's why Governments from Russia try to add green spaces like parks filled with fauna and flora to look nice.

Link - Therefore, Trees in green spaces help to be a nice decoration for those living in four seasons. However, My point stays the same and I believe that Green spaces are not used as decorations.

Global Outlook: In my life right now, I go to many green spaces that are near me like MacRitchie Resevior and Bishan and Ang Mo Kio Park. In school there are green spaces like our level 4 plants and fungi like Mushrooms and a small garden filled with unique type of plants and animals like vines and frequent visits of snails after the rain.

In Singapore there are green spaces in every part. That's why Singapore is called " Garden City " and Garden's By The Bay being Singapore's tourist attraction and a place full of diverse plants found in the Flower dome and animals that are usually not found in the cities. Globally, there are countries that are full of various plants and animals like the Amazon Rainforest and New Zealand. The Amazon Rainforest contain big crocodiles and amazing plants not found locally and New Zealand has found the extinct Kiwi alive and thriving.

Conclusion - In Conclusion, I believe that Green spaces are not used to beautify an area but to help out the ecosystem and prevent climate change. I hope that in the future, the Ozone layer may return and global temperatures shall decrease.

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Firstly, I like the facilities near my area as they are very convenient and accessible.

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I do not agree.

Firstly, green spaces such as parks and gardens can provide opportunities for social interaction and physical activity. These green spaces can act as mediums for people to exercise, as well as commute with others within these spaces. For example in Singapore, east coast park serves as a nice location for cyclists to explore the coastal areas of Singapore. People are also able to take a stroll with friends or family while getting to spend time with each other. As a result, people will be able to enjoy a higher quality of life as they will be able to stay fit while getting to meet new people. Thus, I do not agree that green spaces only serve to beautify an area.

Secondly, green spaces can help to clean the air in areas. Plants undergo a process called photosynthesis, where carbon dioxide and water are taken in to produce oxygen. This process is able to help purify the air in more polluted cities. For example, Singapore has started growing plants on the side of buildings to help purify areas and ensure that the air quality in those areas are of satisfactory level. This allows the air quality in areas which have green spaces to be much higher, thus preventing diseases caused by poor air quality such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

However, I can see why some people may think that green spaces only serve to beautify places. Governments tend to spend quite a bit of the country's money on these green spaces. For example, the Singaporean government spends 2.44 billion SGD on green spaces alone. Some people may find this a bit excessive as they may think that this money can be spent on other areas such as education or healthcare. They may think that the government is simply trying to make Singapore look good and beautiful using these green spaces. Thus some people may think that green space only serve to beautify an area.

However, I will argue that this money is not simply just spent on making these green spaces look better. However, they may be used to improve the quality of these green spaces to make it.

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I disagree with this statement as there is more to green spaces then just the greenery surrounding it to beautify it.

Firstly, a green space such as a park is a recreational space which can be used by anyone to do their leisure activities. (P)

For example, we can go there to do our exercises or to walk our pet and even to have a walk. (E) So a green space can be used for recreation activities.

Secondly, a green space is used to host group gatherings in a calm place.

People from all walks of. life can go there to enjoy a gathering with their friends and family. Examples of this are the seniors practicing traditional martial arts and the families having a good time at a picnic. With that, a green place is a great area to have a good time with people we love and cherish.

Secondly, the greenery provides a sense of tranquility.(P)

outlet to come to my senses

think rationally,

However, I can also say that there green places can be used to beautify a plain or a run down area to be brought back to live.

In my opinion, a green space can be used by anyone for whatever activities they want to do and it as a safe space for people to enjoy their time in, whether with friends, family or even themselves.

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I disagree with the statement. Green spaces are not there just to beautify an area because they have many other functions.

Firstly, green spaces such as nature parks can serve as an area for recreation and social gatherings. People can do many leisure activities in nature parks such as sports or relaxation. One such example is Bishan-Ang mo kio park where many people daily from morning to night go there to take their morning walks or jog or play sports such as football or badminton in the open area and bond with friends and family.

Secondly, green spaces also can serve as a an area to improve air quality as the trees and plants in the area helps to clear up the air pollutants and give out oxygen. With the trees and plants in the area, there will be insects and animal and thus increasing the biodiversity in the area. Personally i have a park in my neighbourhood , a 10minutes walk away from my home and it has provided me with a place to go to for fresher air and a place for me to relax and rejuvenate from the hectic schedule i have.

However others may argue that green spaces are indeed just there to beautify the area simply because they do not go to these green spaces for themself to enjoy the area.

In conclusion, i feel that green spaces have many other functions besides beautify the area. Improving air quality and providing a space for recreational purposes for many.

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I disagree that green spaces only serve to beautify areas. Green spaces improve our mental and physical health. Green spaces offer a respite from our concrete and technology-filled urban environments. They provide an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, helping to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall mood. Nature preserves promote physical activities such as hiking, biking, walking, and running, which minimize the likelihood of obesity and related diseases.

Additionally, it also Strengthens Social Cohesion. Parks offer a range of activities that provide an excellent opportunity for people to come together. For instance, activities such as biking, rafting, gardening, hiking, and birdwatching in nature reserves cultivate community and social connections among residents.

However, others may agree that green spaces only serve to beautify places as it is used to make places more appealing. Green spaces enhance the visual attractiveness of urban areas by introducing natural elements such as trees, flowers, and grass. For example, Parks and gardens in cities like Paris or New York add to the charm and beauty of the urban landscape, making them more appealing to residents and visitors. The aesthetic value of green spaces is significant as they can elevate a city's overall ambiance, making it more pleasant to live in and visit.

Overall, it is a misconception that green spaces only serve to beautify places as they provide many other benefits, not only health and social benefits but also environmental benefits. Hence, it is clear that their benefits extend far beyond mere visual appeal, contributing to the overall quality of life.

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4E14E2 15 May 2024 (Physical Environment_Buildings)

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If the pandemic taught us anything, it is that public green spaces are essential. The ability to go outside and get some fresh air has never been more important. And yet, so many people lack access to parks, gardens and greenbelts.

A study from The Trust for Public Land found that those who live in underserved communities are particularly affected.

"In the 100 most populated cities," wrote the study's author, "neighborhoods where most residents identify as Black, Hispanic and Latinx, American Indian/Alaska Native or Asian American and Pacific Islander have access to an average of 44 percent less park acreage than predominantly white neighborhoods, and similar park space inequities exist in low-income neighborhoods across cities."

With increased infrastructure funding, cities have a unique opportunity to invest in their public green spaces-both in claiming and reclaiming spaces and in ensuring funding to build and maintain what we have.

As cities continue to grow and urbanize, creating public green spaces that allow people to reconnect with nature is more important than ever. Indeed, with more than 80% of the U.S. population living in urban areas, communities need to offer a peaceful respite from city life. These natural oases can improve our mental and physical health, provide opportunities for physical activity and social interaction, and help clean the air and water. And increasingly, studies are showing that public green spaces have been linked to lower crime rates.

Here are the top five benefits for cities and communities when they add more green spaces.
1. Improves Physical and Mental Health
Green spaces offer a respite from our concrete and technology-filled urban environments. They provide an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, which helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve overall mood. Nature preserves promote physical activities such as hiking, biking, walking and running, which minimize the likelihood of obesity and related diseases. They serve as natural air filters, improving air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory problems. And natural environments have been proven to stimulate the mind, helping to reduce stress and fatigue and promote relaxation.

These benefits can be made accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender or income, making it an inclusive and egalitarian way of improving people's well-being.
2. Strengthens Social Cohesion
Parks offer a range of activities that provide an excellent opportunity for people to come together. Activities such as biking, rafting, gardening, hiking and birdwatching in nature reserves, for instance, cultivate community and social connections among residents.

I've seen it time and again. I lead outdoor expeditions where I live in Montana and have watched how these green spaces enable individuals of different backgrounds to interact and break down cultural barriers, promoting understanding and inclusivity.
3. Promotes Education
Creating and maintaining green spaces offers education beyond the classroom. Children and adults can use these places to explore, discover and learn about the natural world and its interconnectedness. People can also learn about ecology, geology, botany and animal behavior in nature centers, zoos and botanical gardens. Similarly, access to nature promotes critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively, and it encourages people to become environmental stewards.
4. Conserves the Environment
Public spaces focused on nature promote biodiversity and help fight climate change.

First, trees and other vegetation are vital in absorbing carbon from the atmosphere and regulating the climate. This helps reduce the "heat island" effect in urban areas and improves air and water quality.

Second, nature regulates vital ecological processes such as pollination, seed dispersal and pest control.

Last, these designated places can serve as conservation areas that protect endangered species and preserve important habitats.
5. Supports Long-Term Economic Growth
Green spaces can drive tourism, generate income for local businesses and attract new residents and businesses to an area, all of which can lead to economic growth. For instance, these areas can serve as venues for outdoor events such as festivals, concerts and markets. Likewise, public parks promote nature-based tourism, such as ecotourism and agritourism, which can create jobs and revenue for local communities.

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5 Reasons Your Community Should Create More Green Spaces

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COMMENTARY | A healthy community's infrastructure isn't only limited to roads, schools, and bridges. Investing in nature-centered spaces such as parks can contribute significantly to the community's health and economy.

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P: Residing in Ang Mo Kio has its pros and cons. Personally, I enjoy the convenience of having all the amenities I need at a reasonable distance.

E: For example, public transport is very accessible, with a bus interchange and 2 MRT stations near my house which makes it easy for me to travel around the island efficiently and get to my destination in time.

E: So, I feel stress-free when it comes to traveling and planning my routes as I don’t have to worry about it as much.

L: This makes living in Ang Mo Kio worth it.

P: However, a con of residing in Ang Mo Kio is the people traffic.

E: As much as Ang Mo Kio is affordable it is as much crowded all the time. It is almost impossible to not be caught in a wave of people when strolling at markets and malls which makes it less peaceful when hanging out with family and friends.

E: It also makes shopping feel like a race as I hate crowds and always want to get out of there as soon as possible, which makes going out sometimes an absolute nightmare for me.

L: Although this inconvenience is unavoidable, I think it still might be one of the worst aspects of living in Ang Mo Kio.