urban sprawl meaning

Urban sprawl refers to the widespread and uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural or undeveloped lands. This process often results in the loss of open space, undeveloped land, and wildlife habitat. Urban sprawl is typically characterized by low-density development and automobile-centric planning, which can lead to increased traffic congestion, air pollution, and a decline in community cohesion and social interactions.

Urban sprawl is a term used to describe the unplanned and uncontrolled expansion of a metropolitan area into surrounding rural or undeveloped land. It is characterized by the spreading out of housing, commercial developments, and infrastructures, often resulting in the gradual disappearance of open spaces and farmland. This type of development tends to be low-density, car-dependent, and typically lacks proper urban planning. Urban sprawl can have various negative impacts on the environment, public health, transportation, and overall quality of life. It is often associated with increased traffic congestion, pollution, loss of biodiversity, higher infrastructure costs, and social segregation.