The expansion of urban areas, a phenomenon known as urban sprawl, has profound environmental consequences. As cities grow, natural landscapes such as forests and wetlands are often converted into residential, commercial, or industrial zones. This process leads to significant habitat loss, which can decrease local biodiversity—the variety of life in a particular ecosystem. Furthermore, the replacement of natural ground with impermeable surfaces like concrete and asphalt prevents rainwater from soaking into the ground. This increases surface runoff, which can lead to flooding and carry pollutants into rivers and lakes. Urban centers also have a high demand for resources such as water and energy, putting a strain on supplies and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing these challenges requires a commitment to sustainable urban development.