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Urban Sprawl (i) Explain two causes of urban sprawl in any city that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2012
Question B
Urban Sprawl (i) Explain two causes of urban sprawl in any city that you have studied. (ii) Explain two problems caused by this urban sprawl.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Urban Sprawl (i) Explain two causes of urban sprawl in any city that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2012
Step 1
Explain two causes of urban sprawl in any city that you have studied.
Answer
One significant cause of urban sprawl is the increase in population and migration to urban areas. As people flock to cities for better employment and opportunities, there is a heightened demand for housing. This often leads to the expansion of residential areas into previously undeveloped land, resulting in urban sprawl.
Another cause is the availability of affordable land outside urban centers. In many cities, developers take advantage of lower land prices in suburban areas, leading to the construction of new housing developments. This trend often attracts families seeking more space and a quieter environment, thereby promoting further expansion.
Step 2
Explain two problems caused by this urban sprawl.
Answer
One major problem associated with urban sprawl is increased traffic congestion. As cities expand and more residents move to the outskirts, reliance on cars becomes necessary for commuting. This can lead to longer travel times and higher levels of air pollution due to increased vehicle emissions.
Another issue is the loss of agricultural land and green spaces. As cities spread into surrounding rural areas, valuable farmland is often sacrificed for new developments, which can threaten local food production and diminish biodiversity. This loss of green space can also negatively impact the quality of life for residents who benefit from natural areas.