PTE Academic Writing Test 7

Some people believe that governments should heavily invest in renewable energy, even if this means higher costs for consumers in the short term, while others argue that economic affordability should take priority. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Support your position with reasons and relevant examples.

Essay type: Agree or disagree. Your essay is scored on content, form, grammar, vocabulary and spelling.

Summarise the passage in writing.

Urban green spaces, including parks, community gardens, and tree-lined streets, are increasingly recognized as essential infrastructure rather than mere aesthetic amenities. As cities expand and densify, planners face mounting pressure to balance the demand for housing and commercial development against the need to preserve and create accessible green areas. Research consistently demonstrates that green spaces deliver a broad spectrum of benefits. Environmentally, vegetation moderates urban temperatures by providing shade and through evapotranspiration, helping to counteract the so-called urban heat island effect in which built-up areas become significantly warmer than surrounding countryside. Trees and soil also absorb rainfall, reducing the burden on drainage systems and lowering the risk of flooding during intense storms.

Beyond their ecological functions, green spaces have profound effects on public health and social cohesion. Numerous studies link regular access to nature with reduced stress, improved mental well-being, and higher levels of physical activity, as parks encourage walking, cycling, and recreation. Green spaces additionally serve as gathering points that strengthen community bonds, particularly in neighbourhoods where private outdoor areas are scarce. Despite these advantages, the distribution of green space is often unequal, with wealthier districts enjoying greater access while poorer communities, who may benefit most, are underserved. Addressing this imbalance requires deliberate policy intervention, including investment in maintenance, protection of existing land from development, and innovative solutions such as rooftop gardens and the conversion of disused industrial sites. Ultimately, integrating green infrastructure into urban planning is not a luxury but a strategic necessity for building resilient, healthy, and equitable cities capable of withstanding the environmental and social challenges of the coming decades.

Your summary is scored on content, form, grammar and vocabulary.