What does sustainable urban development aim to achieve?

Sustainable urban development is focused on balancing the needs of the present with the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept emphasizes the importance of creating urban environments that are livable, resilient, and environmentally friendly. By prioritizing sustainability, urban development can incorporate green spaces, efficient energy use, and sustainable transportation options, all while considering social equity and economic viability.

In this context, the other options fall short of the principles of sustainable development. For instance, creating cities that are primarily economically driven might lead to short-sighted decisions that neglect environmental and social factors. Expanding urban areas indefinitely can result in urban sprawl, which often leads to habitat destruction and increased reliance on cars. Meanwhile, maximizing automobile use contradicts sustainability efforts, as it can heighten pollution and gridlock, making cities less livable. Thus, the aim of meeting present needs without compromising future generations aligns perfectly with the core goals of sustainable urban development.