PTE Summarize Written Text Task Sample 205
Read the passage below and summarize it using one sentence. Type your response in the box at the bottom of the screen. You have 10 minutes to finish this task. Your response will be judged on the quality of your writing and on how well your response presents the key points in the passage.
The Impact of Urbanization on Society and the Environment
Urbanization, the rapid growth of cities, has profound effects on both society and the environment. As more people migrate to urban areas in search of better opportunities, cities expand, reshaping landscapes and altering ecosystems.
Firstly, urbanization affects society by altering social structures and lifestyles. Dense urban environments foster diverse communities and cultural exchanges, leading to greater social integration and innovation. However, rapid urbanization can also strain infrastructure, leading to overcrowding, traffic congestion, and inadequate housing, exacerbating socioeconomic inequalities and social tensions.
Secondly, urbanization poses significant environmental challenges. The conversion of natural landscapes into built-up areas results in habitat loss, fragmentation, and biodiversity decline. Additionally, urban areas contribute to pollution, including air and water pollution, as well as increased waste generation. These environmental impacts pose threats to human health and ecological stability.
Moreover, urbanization exacerbates climate change by increasing greenhouse gas emissions and altering local climates through the urban heat island effect. As cities expand, they contribute to deforestation, soil degradation, and loss of agricultural land, further exacerbating environmental degradation.
In conclusion, while urbanization offers opportunities for economic growth and social development, its impacts on society and the environment cannot be ignored. Sustainable urban planning and development strategies are essential to mitigate the negative consequences of urbanization, preserve natural resources, and create livable, resilient cities for present and future generations. Balancing the needs of society with environmental conservation is paramount for achieving sustainable urbanization.
Summary:
Urbanization, driven by migration to cities for better opportunities, reshapes social structures, fostering diversity and innovation but also strains infrastructure, exacerbating inequalities, while environmentally, it leads to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, necessitating sustainable urban planning to mitigate negative impacts and create livable, resilient cities for future generations.