How does urbanization impact local geography and ecosystems?.

Urbanization transforms natural landscapes into urban environments, impacting geography and ecosystems in various ways:

Key Facts

• Urban areas now occupy about 3% of the Earth's land, yet host more than half of the global population.
• Over 1 million species are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss from urban sprawl.
• Urbanization contributes to 70% of global carbon emissions.
• According to the UN, cities are expected to house 68% of the world's population by 2050.

Examples or Use Cases

• The construction of cities often leads to deforestation, as seen in the Amazon rainforest, where vast areas have been cleared for urban development.
• Urban heat islands are a phenomenon where cities experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to human activity and infrastructure.

FAQs

• What are the main environmental impacts of urbanization? Urbanization leads to habitat destruction, increased pollution, and changes in local climates.
• How can urbanization be made more sustainable? Implementing green infrastructure, promoting public transport, and protecting green spaces can help mitigate impacts.