What aspect of urbanization can significantly impact surrounding environments?

Mass urban sprawl significantly impacts surrounding environments primarily through its alteration of natural landscapes and ecosystems. As urban areas expand outward to accommodate growing populations, they often encroach upon previously undisturbed habitats, leading to habitat destruction and fragmentation. This not only displaces wildlife but can also disrupt ecological processes such as water cycling and nutrient flow within ecosystems.

Urban sprawl can exacerbate issues like increased runoff and pollution, as more land is paved over with impervious surfaces, leading to higher volumes of stormwater that can overwhelm local waterways. Additionally, sprawl often results in the loss of agricultural land and natural resources, putting pressure on food systems and biodiversity.

While transportation networks, green spaces, and public parks are important aspects of urban environments, they generally either serve to mitigate some negative effects of urbanization or can be incorporated in ways that enhance ecological value. For example, efficient transportation networks can help reduce traffic congestion and pollution when designed thoughtfully. Green spaces and public parks can provide important ecological benefits by offering habitats and improving air quality, but they do not intrinsically cause the extensive environmental impacts associated with mass urban sprawl.