What impact would urban sprawl have on the environment?

Urban sprawl can lead to significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction and fragmentation, as natural landscapes are converted into developed areas. This expansion often increases reliance on automobiles, resulting in higher greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Additionally, sprawl can strain water resources and contribute to increased runoff and flooding due to the prevalence of impervious surfaces. Overall, urban sprawl can degrade ecosystems and reduce biodiversity while exacerbating climate change effects.