Science Common Sense
610 - How do urban areas affect the natural environment?
Imagine a big city like a big machine that impacts the environment in many ways. Here are some of the effects of urban areas on the natural environment:
- Air pollution: Cars, buses, and factories release bad air that can make breathing difficult and harm animals.
- Temperature rise: Cities get hotter than countryside areas because buildings and roads absorb heat, making it harder for plants and animals to live comfortably.
- Less natural habitats: As cities grow, forests, parks, and wild areas shrink, making it difficult for animals to find food, shelter, and homes.
- Water pollution: Cities can produce a lot of waste that ends up in rivers, lakes, and oceans, harming aquatic life.
- Less green spaces: Cities often have fewer trees and plants, which help remove bad air and provide shade.
It's essential for cities to find ways to live in harmony with nature and reduce these negative effects on the environment.