What role do parks and green belts play in urban settings?

Parks and green belts play a crucial role in urban settings by providing recreational spaces and improving biodiversity. These green areas offer residents opportunities for leisure activities such as walking, jogging, picnicking, and various sports, contributing positively to physical and mental well-being. Moreover, parks and green belts enhance urban biodiversity by providing habitats for different species of plants and animals, promoting ecological balance within an urban environment. They serve as critical areas for natural ecosystems amidst the built environment, positively impacting air quality, water management, and temperature regulation.

Other roles mentioned in the choices, such as industrial development or residential purposes, do not align with the primary functions of parks and green belts, which are centered around recreation and environmental health. While buffer zones can exist between urban and rural areas, the primary importance of parks and green belts is their ability to enhance the quality of urban life through recreational opportunities and biodiversity enhancement.