Which statement best defines sustainable urban planning?

• A. Planning that meets present needs without compromising future generations.
• B. Planning that prioritizes rapid development of suburban sprawl.
• C. Planning that ignores public transit.
• D. Planning that focuses only on single-use zoning.

Answer: (A)

Sustainable urban planning aims to create cities that meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It blends environmental care with social equity and economic viability, prioritizing efficient land use, walkable neighborhoods, and access to reliable transit while protecting green spaces and resilience to climate change.

That’s why the statement about meeting present needs without compromising future generations is the best fit. It captures the idea of balancing resource use, mobility, and quality of life for today and tomorrow, which is the core aim of sustainability in urban planning.

The other ideas don’t fit as well: prioritizing rapid suburban sprawl tends to increase land consumption, car dependence, and emissions; ignoring public transit undermines accessibility and environmental goals; and focusing only on single-use zoning reduces density, walkability, and flexibility needed for sustainable communities.