How does urban sprawl impact the environment?

Urban sprawl refers to the spread of urban developments on undeveloped land near a city. This phenomenon has several environmental impacts, one of which is the increase in heat in urban areas, often referred to as the urban heat island effect. As urban areas expand, natural landscapes, such as forests, wetlands, and fields, are often replaced with concrete, asphalt, and buildings. These materials absorb and retain more heat than natural vegetation, leading to higher temperatures in sprawling urban areas compared to their rural surroundings.

Additionally, urban sprawl frequently occurs on land that may not be suitable for development, such as floodplains or areas prone to erosion, which can lead to increased environmental degradation and habitat loss. This practice can disrupt local ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and contribute to issues such as increased runoff and water pollution.

In contrast to the other options, which suggest favorable outcomes of urban sprawl, the reality is that it often exacerbates environmental challenges, highlighting the costs of unchecked urban expansion.