Urban Sprawl and Smart Growth Concepts

The video explores the economics of urban sprawl and its environmental impact. Urban sprawl leads to increased reliance on cars, longer commutes, and higher carbon emissions, contributing to pollution and habitat destruction. It also incurs economic costs due to the extension of utilities and services. Smart growth is proposed as a sustainable alternative, promoting compact, mixed-use development with public transportation. The video concludes by highlighting the complexity of urban sprawl and the benefits of smart growth.

What is urban sprawl primarily characterized by?

• Centralized urban planning

• High-density urban development

• Expansion of urban areas beyond core boundaries

• Reduction in urban areas

How does urban sprawl affect transportation emissions?

• Increases reliance on private vehicles

• Decreases reliance on public transport

• Reduces carbon emissions

• Promotes cycling and walking

What percentage of greenhouse gas emissions in the US is attributed to transportation?

• 15%

• 29%

• 45%

• 60%

What is a significant environmental consequence of urban sprawl?

• Destruction of natural habitats

• Preservation of natural habitats

• Increased biodiversity

• Reduction in air pollution

How does urban sprawl impact government and resident costs?

• Lowers water and electricity bills

• Decreases infrastructure costs

• Increases costs due to extended utilities

• Reduces maintenance expenses

What is a key feature of smart growth?

• Expansion of urban boundaries

• Low-density development

• Compact, mixed-use development

• Increased reliance on cars

Which city is cited as an example of smart growth?

• Los Angeles, CA

• New York, NY

• Chicago, IL

• Portland, OR

What is one of the benefits of smart growth?

• Preservation of open spaces

• Increased car usage

• Destruction of natural habitats

• Higher infrastructure costs

What is a major drawback of urban sprawl mentioned in the conclusion?

• Increased habitat destruction

• Enhanced climate stability

• Improved air quality

• Decreased water pollution

What does the video suggest as a more sustainable path forward?

• Smart growth

• Increased car usage

• Continued urban sprawl

• Centralized urban planning