Urban sprawl refers to the rapid outward expansion of metropolitan areas into low-density rural lands, characterized by single-use zoning, reliance on automobiles, and homogenous design. It was facilitated by the rise of automobiles and subsidized housing in the 1940s. Environmental issues caused by sprawl include increased emissions, air and water pollution, and lack of physical activity has led to health problems like obesity and diabetes. While sprawl provides benefits like affordable housing, it has negative economic, environmental and social impacts on communities.