How does urban living compare to rural living in terms of environmental impact?
Urban residents typically have a smaller per-person land and transportation footprint but higher consumption of energy and goods; rural living uses more land and generates more vehicle miles but often has lower overall resource intensity per capita.
Explain some of the environmental advantages and disadvantages of upward urban growth.
Advantages: reduces habitat loss by using less land and supports efficient public transit and energy use. Disadvantages: creates urban heat islands, concentrates air pollution, and increases demand on local water and waste systems.
Explain why urban sprawl occurs even though it negatively impacts the environment.
Sprawl occurs because residents seek affordable larger homes, better schools, and perceived quality of life, while weak zoning and cheap land encourage continued outward expansion despite environmental costs.
What caused the urban migration in the United States?
The Industrial Revolution created factory jobs in cities, drawing rural migrants seeking employment and better wages.
What are some consequences of urban sprawl?
Higher vehicle emissions, loss of farmland and natural habitat, increased infrastructure costs, traffic congestion, and fragmented communities.
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