Urban sprawl is the spread of a city or its suburbs, often involving construction in rural areas or undeveloped land. It is associated with negative consequences such as increased air pollution and obesity, but some see it as a positive sign of economic growth. Suburban development, disposable zoning, and low-density land use are key features. While typically associated with developed countries, it is also present in developing countries.
Urban sprawl is the spread of a city or its suburbs. It often involves the construction of residential and commercial buildings in rural areas or undeveloped land on the outskirts of a city. Most residents of typical sprawl neighborhoods live in single-family homes and commute by car to their jobs in the city. Concerns about this phenomenon and its consequences have been raised and focus largely on the negative consequences for residents and the local environment. On the other hand, some argue that it illustrates positive growth of a local economy.
The term urban sprawl is generally used with negative connotations. Because people in sprawling neighborhoods tend to drive more than those who live in cities, it’s sometimes associated with increased air pollution. It has also been linked to obesity as walking or cycling are usually not viable commuting options for those moving from the outskirts of a city to the city.
Traditional cities, like many small and medium-sized cities in modern Europe, were typically compactly and efficiently oriented. The preferences of many people, especially in the United States, have led to suburban development, adapting to development in an outward rather than bottom-up fashion. Developments such as shopping malls, fast food chains, malls and housing subdivisions are particularly typical of urban sprawl. Subdivisions are often cited as prime examples of the less efficient use of space that characterizes expansion. These layouts often have only a few entry and exit points, causing major roads to have the most traffic at these points.
Urban sprawl often happens rapidly, rather than gradually. Another key feature is its low-density land use, where the amount of land consumed per capita is much higher than in more densely populated urban areas. Wide streets, large lawns and gardens are typical in this model.
Disposable zoning is also a common part of this phenomenon. This planning approach separates residential, commercial and industrial areas from each other, usually at a distance that is not conducive to walking thus increasing the importance of vehicles. While public transportation is typically available in the suburbs, most of these areas are heavily dependent on automobiles. While sprawl is common in developed countries, it’s not limited to them. Many cities in developing countries, such as Mexico City, also experience this.
While the term “urban sprawl” is typically used with negative connotations, the economic growth that supports it is seen by many as a good thing. Also, many argue for the community structure of a suburb over a city as the pace of life is typically slower and space is not as important. Furthermore, suburbs are often said to be safer, and as a result these areas are often places people move to to raise their children.
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