Read the following passage about urbanization and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.
It's a widely held belief that cities harm the environment. For this reason, many developing countries have imposed restrictions on the movement of people from rural to urban areas and on the size of large cities. But there are problems with this viewpoint. Urbanization that is properly controlled can benefit the environment in a number of ways.
First, urbanization is a highly productive force due to the combination of economies of scale and positive externalities. Over 5.5 times as much is produced in Asia's cities as in its rural areas. Urban agglomeration makes it possible to use fewer resources to produce the same amount of work as non-urban areas. Urbanization therefore reduces the environmental impact. Urbanization is necessary because the service sector depends on a concentration of clients. The growth of service industries, which typically generate less waste than manufacturing, is another environmentally beneficial aspect of urbanization.
Second, for any given population, high urban density has no effect on the environment. According to urban economics studies, density is one of the most significant factors influencing energy consumption. In places with a high population density, public transportation may be more convenient and quicker. City dwellers are more likely to walk or ride a bike instead of drive. Third, the construction, upkeep, and operation of environmentally friendly public services and infrastructure, such as waste management, sanitation, and piped water, are considerably simpler and less expensive in urban areas. More people can now afford to use eco-friendly facilities and services thanks to urbanization.
Fourth, urbanization is driving the development of new technologies, including eco-friendly ones. Eco-friendly vehicles, utilities, and equipment are essential to the green economy's long-term survival. Asia's enormous market will support green innovations in cities because the region's enormous population will provide entrepreneurs with many incentives and opportunities to invest in the development of energy-efficient products. Last but not least, the improved standard of living brought about by urbanization has improved access to housing, food, healthcare, and education. Cities with more residents can invest more in infrastructure, which reduces traffic and improves public health. Urbanization fosters pro-environmental attitudes, especially among middle-class property owners, which greatly aid in the introduction and enforcement of environmental laws and regulations.
Any expanding city will inevitably incur expenses. People are moving in large numbers to Asian cities, and many companies have opened offices there to capitalize on this trend. Examples of industrial operations that contribute to urban sprawl and harm the environment include the generation of electricity, transportation, construction, trash, and waste disposal. Both the advantages and disadvantages of urbanization should be taken into account when assessing its effects on the environment.
Which of the following does the writer mention about elements impacting power usage?
