Urbanization typically results in a loss of which important resource?

Urbanization typically leads to a significant loss of natural habitats. As cities expand to accommodate growing populations and economic activities, areas that were once natural landscapes—such as forests, wetlands, and grasslands—are often cleared or altered. This transformation can result in the destruction of ecosystems that support various forms of wildlife and biodiversity. The reduction of these habitats not only displaces animal species but also diminishes the ecological services they provide, such as air and water purification, carbon storage, and climate regulation.

While technological innovations, financial investments, and cultural heritage can be impacted by urbanization, they do not typically represent a direct "loss" in the same way that natural habitats do. Technological advancements may actually increase in urban areas, leading to improved infrastructure and services. Financial investments may increase as urban areas become hubs for economic activities. Cultural heritage may be preserved or transformed rather than outright lost, as cities often strive to maintain historical sites even amidst growth. Thus, the loss of natural habitats is a more direct and prominent consequence of urban expansion.