Mass transportation planning plays a crucial role in sustainable urban development. Let's analyze each option:
- Option 1: By encouraging urban sprawl - Urban sprawl is generally not a desired outcome in sustainable development. It leads to inefficient land use, increased dependence on private vehicles, higher carbon emissions, and strain on resources. Therefore, encouraging urban sprawl is counterproductive to sustainable urban planning.
- Option 2: By prioritizing single-occupancy vehicle use - Prioritizing single-occupancy vehicles contradicts the principles of sustainable urban development. It leads to traffic congestion, increased pollution, and higher consumption of fossil fuels. Sustainable transportation planning aims to reduce reliance on individual cars in favor of shared, efficient modes of transport like buses, trains, and bicycles.
- Option 3: By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impacts - This option is in line with the goals of sustainable urban development. Mass transportation systems can reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, lowering fossil fuel consumption, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. It also promotes energy efficiency and cleaner air, all key elements of sustainability.
- Option 4: By disregarding the needs of vulnerable populations - Disregarding the needs of vulnerable populations (e.g., elderly, disabled, low-income individuals) is not aligned with sustainable urban development. Inclusive planning ensures equitable access to transportation for all residents, which is critical for social sustainability.
Conclusion:
The correct answer is:
Answer:
Option 3: By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impacts