What impact does urbanization have on the environment?

Urbanization significantly impacts the environment primarily through habitat destruction and increased pollution. As cities expand to accommodate growing populations, natural land is often converted into urban areas such as residential neighborhoods, commercial buildings, and roads. This conversion leads to the loss of ecosystems that provide habitat for wildlife, resulting in decreased biodiversity as species are displaced or exterminated.

Additionally, urban areas tend to concentrate human activities, which can lead to higher levels of pollution. There are increased emissions from transportation, industrial activities, and waste production, contributing to air and water quality deterioration. The heat generated by urban environments, known as the urban heat island effect, can exacerbate the need for energy consumption, leading to further environmental stress. The overall effect of urbanization is a complex interplay between meeting human needs and the sustainability of the natural environment.