City Rooftop Gardens
Unused rooftops are being transformed into gardens in an increasing number of cities, including districts with very little public green space. Some projects grow vegetables for restaurants, while others provide quiet spaces for residents to sit and rest. Their (17) ________ is partly explained by the shortage of land at street level. A well-designed roof can support plants without causing (18) ________ damage to the building below, although careful engineering is essential. Gardeners often choose species that can survive strong winds and long periods of (19) ________ sunshine. Water use must also be managed (20) ________, especially during hot summers. In return, planted roofs can improve insulation and reduce the (21) ________ of rainwater entering drains at once. They may also increase urban (22) ________ by attracting insects and birds. For residents, perhaps the most (23) ________ benefit is simply having somewhere green to sit, meet friends or read on a warm day. As cities become denser, such spaces may play an (24) ________ important role in daily life.