单项选择题

Climate Change Poses Major Risks for Unprepared Cities A new examination of urban policies has been carried out recently by Patricia Romero Lankao. She is a sociologist specializing in climate change and________(51) development. She warns that many of the world’s fast-growing urban areas, especially in developing countries, will likely suffer from the________(52) of changing climate. Her work also concludes that most cities are failing to________(53) emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. These gases are known to affect the atmosphere. “Climate change is a deeply local issue and poses profound ________ (54) to the growing cities of the world.” says Romero Lankao. “But too few cities are developing effective strategies to protect their residents. ” Cities are ________ (55) sources of greenhouse gases. And urban populations are likely to be among those most severely affected by future climate change. Lankao’s findings highlight ways in which city-residents are particularly vulnerable, and suggest policy interventions (干预) that could offer immediate and longer-term _________ (56). The locations and dense construction patterns of cities often place their populations at greater __________ (57) for natural disasters. Potential threats associated with climate include storm surges and prolonged hot weather. Storm surges can flood coastal areas and prolonged hot weather can heat ________ (58) paved cities more than surrounding areas. The impacts of such natural events can be more ________ (59) in an urban environment. For example, a prolonged heat wave can increase existing levels of air pollution, causing widespread health problems. Poorer neighborhoods that may ________ (60) basic facilities such as drinking water or a dependable network of roads, are especially vulnerable to natural disasters. Many residents in poorer countries live in sub-standard housing ________ (61) access to reliable drinking water, roads and basic services. Local governments, therefore, should take measures to ________ (62) their residents. Unfortunately, they tend to move towards rhetoric (言辞) ________ (63) meaningful responses, Romero Lankao writes. They don’t impose construction standards that could reduce heating and air conditioning ________ (64). They don’t emphasize mass transit and reduce automobile use. In fact, many local governments are taking a hands-off approach. ________ (65), she urges them to change their idle policies and to take strong steps to prevent the harmful effects of climate change on cities.

64（）

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