Urban Expansion As cities expand they impact on the surrounding rural areas - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2011

For instance, the expansion of the city of Atlanta, Georgia, illustrates this phenomenon. As Atlanta has grown, it has steadily expanded into nearby rural areas, resulting in the reduction of farmland and increasing pressure on local resources.

The urban expansion of Atlanta not only leads to a decline in agricultural productivity but also brings about environmental challenges. Increased urbanization contributes to the loss of biodiversity, as natural habitats are destroyed to make way for new housing developments and infrastructure.

Additionally, the influx of populations into these expanding areas can strain local services and infrastructure. More residents often lead to increased waste production, traffic congestion, and the need for expanded utilities, such as water and electricity. Local governments may find it difficult to accommodate this rapid growth without adequate planning and investment.

Urban expansion can also cause social impacts, such as changes in community dynamics. As rural areas become urbanized, traditional lifestyles may be disrupted, leading to a loss of community identity.

Therefore, while urban expansion can facilitate economic growth and provide housing, it is critical to recognize and address the extensive impacts it has on surrounding rural areas.