Nghe TOEFL

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Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. The professor is discussing urban heat islands. Professor: Today we're talking about urban heat islands, which are cities that are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. This happens because buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorb and re-emit the sun's heat more than natural landscapes do. For example, dark roofs and asphalt parking lots can reach temperatures up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit on a sunny day. In contrast, vegetation and lighter surfaces reflect more sunlight. The heat island effect can have serious consequences, such as increased energy consumption for air conditioning, higher air pollution levels, and even heat-related illnesses. One strategy to mitigate this is planting trees and creating green roofs. These not only provide shade but also cool the air through a process called evapotranspiration. Another approach is using reflective materials for pavements and buildings. So, while the problem is significant, there are practical solutions we can implement.