Urban Green Spaces: Benefits and Challenges

Read the following text about the benefits of urban green spaces:

Urban Green Spaces: Urban green spaces, such as parks and gardens, play a crucial role in improving the quality of life in cities. They provide a refuge for wildlife, reduce air and noise pollution, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of urban environments. Various studies show that access to these green spaces can lead to improved mental and physical health for residents. Furthermore, they contribute to social cohesion by serving as communal areas where people can gather, exercise, and connect with nature.

Now, listen to the lecture on urban green spaces:

Lecture: While the presence of urban green spaces is beneficial, maintaining these areas often poses significant challenges for city planners. Limited funding can hinder the creation and upkeep of parks. Additionally, urban development can lead to the encroachment of such spaces, reducing their size and accessibility. A balanced approach is necessary to ensure that the benefits of these areas are preserved for future generations while addressing urban growth demands.

Using the information from the reading and the lecture, summarize the key benefits of urban green spaces and the challenges they face.