What is a common effect of urbanization on the environment?

The correct answer identifies a common consequence of urbanization as an increase in pollution. As urban areas expand due to population growth and industrial development, they often lead to higher concentrations of people and vehicles in a limited space. This increase in human activity typically results in elevated levels of air and water pollution, primarily from transportation, industrial processes, and waste disposal. Urban environments are characterized by increased emissions of pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, all of which can degrade air quality and contribute to health problems among residents.

Urbanization can also lead to habitat destruction, which negatively affects local ecosystems and results in decreased biodiversity. The construction of buildings and infrastructure often replaces natural landscapes with paved surfaces, which disrupts the habitats that sustain various species. Thus, the expansion of urban areas correlates strongly with higher pollution levels and a decline in ecological health.