It is often argued that urban green spaces, particularly in densely populated cities, should be replaced with residential buildings to address the growing demand for housing. This view is partly justified, as rapid population growth and increasing urbanisation have intensified housing shortages. However, I believe that preserving green spaces is equally important because they contribute significantly to the physical and mental well-being of city dwellers.
On the one hand, converting some green areas into residential developments could help alleviate housing shortages. As cities continue to attract younger people seeking better employment and educational opportunities, the demand for affordable accommodation is likely to increase. If governments fail to provide sufficient housing, overcrowding and homelessness may become more serious problems. Therefore, using strategically selected vacant or underutilised green spaces for apartment buildings could provide accommodation for a growing urban population while making more efficient use of limited land.
On the other hand, urban green spaces should not be viewed simply as unused land. Parks, gardens and other natural areas provide residents with opportunities to exercise, relax and escape from the pressures of city life, thereby improving both physical and mental health. Furthermore, vegetation can absorb carbon dioxide, reduce air pollution and lower temperatures in densely built-up areas. Removing excessive amounts of greenery could consequently make cities less healthy and less environmentally sustainable.
In my opinion, although additional housing is undoubtedly necessary, replacing green spaces on a large scale is not an appropriate solution. Governments should instead prioritise the construction of high-density housing on vacant land and the redevelopment of existing buildings, while protecting essential parks and green areas. This approach would allow cities to accommodate population growth without sacrificing residents’ quality of life.