The Biophilic City: Integrating Nature into Urban Design Historically, urban planning has often prioritised efficiency, infrastructure, and economic growth, frequently at the expense of natural ecosystems. However, a burgeoning movement known as 'biophilic urbanism' seeks to redefine this paradigm, advocating for the systematic integration of nature into the very fabric of cities. Derived from the term 'biophilia' – meaning an innate human tendency to connect with nature and other living systems – this approach asserts that regular interaction with green and blue spaces is not merely an aesthetic enhancement but a fundamental requirement for human well-being and ecological resilience. Proponents of biophilic cities highlight a multitude of benefits. Psychologically, exposure to natural environments has been demonstrably linked to reduced stress levels, improved cognitive function, and enhanced mood. Urban residents experiencing such exposure often report higher levels of life satisfaction and community cohesion. Environmentally, the strategic incorporation of vegetation, from street trees to extensive urban forests and green roofs, plays a critical role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air quality by filtering pollutants, and enhancing biodiversity. These green infrastructures also contribute significantly to sustainable water management by absorbing rainfall and reducing stormwater runoff, thereby easing pressure on drainage systems. Implementing biophilic principles involves various design strategies. These range from the creation of extensive public parks and biodiverse ecological corridors to more integrated architectural solutions such as vertical gardens and living walls on building facades. Even seemingly minor interventions, like permeable paving and the planting of native species in public squares, collectively contribute to a city's biophilic character. The challenge, however, lies in overcoming constraints such as limited urban space, prohibitive initial costs, and the ongoing maintenance requirements of natural elements. Critics occasionally argue that such projects are merely cosmetic or serve to 'greenwash' underlying environmental problems without addressing root causes. Despite these hurdles, the concept of the biophilic city is gaining considerable traction globally. Policy-makers and developers are increasingly recognising the long-term value of nature-inclusive design, moving beyond purely functional landscaping to embrace a more holistic and interconnected vision of urban living. Major cities worldwide are now developing comprehensive biophilic master plans, seeking to weave nature not just into pockets of green space, but throughout the entire urban metabolism. The aim is to foster cities where both human inhabitants and natural systems can thrive synergistically. Questions 1-7 Do the following statements agree with the information given in the reading passage? Write YES if the statement agrees with the claims of the writer NO if the statement contradicts the claims of the writer NOT GIVEN if it is impossible to say what the writer thinks about this 1. Traditional urban planning typically prioritised environmental preservation over economic development. 2. The term 'biophilia' refers to a human connection with natural environments and living organisms. 3. Biophilic urbanism is primarily concerned with making cities more visually appealing. 4. Green roofs are mentioned as a method to help alleviate the urban heat island effect. 5. Psychological benefits of nature exposure include a documented increase in cognitive ability. 6. The primary obstacle to implementing biophilic designs is public opposition to the concept. 7. Future biophilic city designs are expected to feature underground parks in densely populated areas.