What is a significant consequence of urban sprawl?

Urban sprawl, characterized by the expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land, leads to a significant loss of natural habitats. This phenomenon occurs as greenfield sites, such as forests, wetlands, and agricultural land, are converted into residential, commercial, or industrial developments. The encroachment of urban development on these natural areas displaces wildlife, disrupts ecosystems, and diminishes biodiversity, as many species lose their homes and sources of food.

In contrast to urban sprawl, improved public transport networks and enhanced community identity generally require more compact, well-planned urban development to encourage connectivity and local engagement. Additionally, urban sprawl is often associated with an increase rather than a decrease in urban traffic, as more people living further away from city centers rely on personal vehicles, leading to traffic congestion and longer commuting times. Thus, the loss of natural habitats stands out as a direct and significant consequence of the sprawling nature of urban development.