7.2.2

Impact

Test yourself

Urban Sprawl and Its Effects on Rural-Urban Fringe Areas

Urban sprawl extends cities into rural-urban fringe zones, altering land use, affecting environments, and creating social and economic challenges in these surrounding areas.

Illustrative background for Environmental impacts of urban sprawl    Illustrative background for Environmental impacts of urban sprawl     ?? "content

Environmental impacts of urban sprawl

  • The expansion of cities causes increased air and water pollution in fringe zones.
    • Urban sprawl creates more traffic congestion, raising carbon emissions.
    • There is pressure on water resources due to rising demand.
    • Soil erosion and flooding risk increase as natural land is sealed by concrete.
Illustrative background for Social and economic effectsIllustrative background for Social and economic effects ?? "content

Social and economic effects

  • Suburbanisation is the process where people move from city centres to live in new homes on the outskirts or edges of a city.
    • Suburbanisation may lead to loss of farmland and green spaces around cities.
  • New suburbs can create social divisions between long-term residents and newcomers.
  • Suburbanisation can bring new shops, schools, and jobs to rural areas near the city.
  • Rural communities may benefit from improved services and infrastructure due to suburban growth.
Illustrative background for Brownfield sites and greenfield sitesIllustrative background for Brownfield sites and greenfield sites ?? "content

Brownfield sites and greenfield sites

  • Brownfield sites are old, unused urban areas, often with buildings or factories to redevelop.
    • Brownfield sites help reduce urban sprawl by reusing land inside the city.
  • Greenfield sites are undeveloped land outside the city, often farmland or countryside.
    • Building on greenfield sites can increase urban sprawl and harm natural habitats.
  • Environmentalists often support redeveloping brownfield sites to protect greenfield areas and wildlife.
Illustrative background for Formation of squatter settlementsIllustrative background for Formation of squatter settlements ?? "content

Formation of squatter settlements

  • Squatter settlements form when rapid urban growth outpaces housing supply.
  • Migrants move to cities seeking jobs and services but cannot afford formal housing.
  • People build makeshift homes on unused or unsafe land, often at the rural-urban fringe.
  • These areas usually lack clean water, sanitation, and electricity.
  • Settlements grow quickly and can become permanent communities over time.

Jump to other topics

1Paper 1 - Changing River Environnments

2Paper 1 - Changing Coastal Environments

3Paper 1 - Changing Ecosystems

4Paper 1 - Tectonic Hazards

5Paper 1 - Climate Change

6Paper 2 - Changing Populations

7Paper 2 - Changing Towns & Cities

8Paper 2 - Development

9Paper 2 - Changing Economies

10Paper 2 - Resource Provision

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium