Although many people value public parks, some argue that this space could be better utilized for residential developments or businesses to support the growing population and boost the economy. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

While

the pressure for housing and economic growth is undeniable, I firmly believe that public

parks

should be preserved

due to

their crucial benefits for environmental sustainability and public

health

.

Firstly

, public

parks

play a vital role in urban environmental

health

. Green

spaces

absorb carbon dioxide, reduce pollution, and provide cooler microclimates in cities, which are especially important in densely populated areas.

For example

, research by the World

Health

Organization has shown that urban

parks

can decrease air pollution by up to 40%, contributing to cleaner, healthier cities. Without these

spaces

, cities would struggle to mitigate the negative impacts of urbanization,

such

as rising temperatures and poor air quality.

Secondly

,

parks

are essential for the physical and mental well-being of residents. In modern urban settings, where stress and sedentary lifestyles are common,

parks

provide safe areas for exercise, relaxation, and socializing. Studies have consistently shown that access to green

spaces

helps reduce stress and improve mental

health

.

Furthermore

,

parks

offer safe

spaces

for children to play, promoting their physical development and encouraging healthy lifestyles from an early age. In conclusion,

although

there is a need for more housing and commercial developments, public

parks

offer irreplaceable benefits for both the environment and public

health

.

Thus

, urban planners should prioritize preserving green

spaces

alongside responsible development.