Literature review and discussion on effects of urbanization on natural resources. The Effects of Urbanization on Natural Resources: A Review

The Effects of Urbanization on Natural Resources: A Review

Urbanization is the process of a population shifting from rural to urban areas, and is a key factor in the deterioration of natural resources. The influx of people, businesses, and infrastructure has exponentially increased the demand for resources like water, land, and energy, which has led to the depletion of these natural resources (Lall, 2020). As urban areas continue to grow and the demand for resources increases, the effects on the environment become more and more pronounced. For example, air pollution is a result ofindustrialization, and can aggravate asthma, cause respiratory illnesses, and has been linked to climate change (Mickley et al., 2018). In addition, land degradation, deforestation, and water scarcity are all consequences of urbanization. Urban areas are also home to a wide range of organisms, including wildlife, and their habitats are often destroyed as a result of development. This can lead to the displacement of species, the loss of biodiversity, and the decline of natural ecosystems, which can have a ripple effect on the environment (Khan et al., 2019). Furthermore, increased urbanization can cause a decrease in water quality, as runoff from roads and buildings is often contaminated with pollutants like oil and heavy… Cont…