Parks are a crucial part of any community. They have a significant impact on the development of children and the happiness of everyone ∈ the neighbourhood. Here’s why parks are important.
• Unpaved ground absorbs water. Trees and grass are a far more efficient and less expensive method of managing storm water than sewers and drainage ditches made of concrete. With greater occurrence of rain caused by rising temperatures, an increase ∈ green could save a lot of money.
• The abundance of flat, dark surfaces made up of asphalt and concrete ∈ cities creates what is known as the urban heat island effect. Luckily, even a small increase ∈ the number of trees ∈ the neighbourhood can reduce this effect.
• Increasing the number of parks and recreational facilities ∈a neighbourhood reduces crime rates, especially among youth. By giving young people a safe place to interact with one another they keep them off the streets and out of trouble.
• The mental health benefits of parks go beyond the obvious. Direct exposure to nature reduces stress and increases happiness. A study by Finnish researchers found that even ten minutes ∈a park or urban woodland area could tangibly reduce stress.
• Being outside and playing ∈ nature is crucial for the healthy development of children. Regular time ∈ nature improves the child’s ability to learn and reduces symptoms of ADHD, training the brain to focus better. Children who spend a significant amount of time ∈ nature also experience better emotional stability and improved mental health.
Internet: www.gardinergreenribbon.com (adapted).
Judge the following item according to the text.
Teenagers who take part ∈ activities carried on ∈ parks are less prone to get involved ∈ unlawful practices.
