Poorly planned urban or suburban sprawl is most likely to result in which of the following?

• A. An increase in environmental pollution and waste materials.
• B. An increase in reliance on personal automobiles for transportation.
• C. A decrease in land use efficiency.
• D. Immediate improvements in air quality.

Answer: (B)

Poorly planned urban or suburban sprawl tends to create a car-dependent landscape, where homes, workplaces, and amenities are spread far apart and connected mainly by roads designed for cars. Because destinations are distant and transit options are weak, people rely on personal automobiles for most trips—commuting, shopping, and errands—leading to more vehicle use overall.

That pattern is the strongest, most consistent outcome of sprawl. While it can also contribute to higher emissions and less efficient land use, the immediate and direct consequence people experience is greater dependence on cars. Immediate air-quality improvements would be unlikely, since more driving typically increases pollution rather than reduces it.