Tree Planting and Air Quality Debate

Very Hard Critical Reasoning Strengthening Arguments

A recent study conducted by the University of Greenfields suggests that increasing the number of trees in urban areas leads to an improvement in air quality. Environmentalists argue that trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, thus enhancing the air we breathe. However, city planners are skeptical. They point out that the cost of planting and maintaining trees can be substantial, and it may divert funding from other essential infrastructure projects.

To support their argument against the increase of tree plantings, city planners reason that while trees may improve air quality, they do not address other significant pollution sources, such as vehicle emissions and industrial discharges. Furthermore, they argue that the mere presence of trees does not automatically lead to responsible behavior by residents and industries regarding pollution. Thus, they conclude that investing in air quality improvements must focus on reducing emissions rather than enhancing green spaces.

Which of the following, if true, would most strengthen the city planners' argument about the inefficacy of tree planting in solving air pollution issues?

Urban areas that have increased their tree cover have also seen a simultaneous rise in public transportation use.

Studies show that cities that invest in both trees and pollution control measures experience the most significant improvements in air quality.

Increased vehicle emissions have been shown to be the leading cause of elevated pollution levels in urban environments.

Communities with fewer trees have higher instances of respiratory diseases attributed to air pollution.

Hint

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