The concept of 'environmental gentrification' describes a paradoxical outcome of urban sustainability initiatives. While green projects such as parks, clean-energy infrastructure, and improved public transit are designed to enhance livability, they often inadvertently increase property values in surrounding neighborhoods. This appreciation, in turn, attracts wealthier residents and businesses, displacing long-term, lower-income inhabitants who originally benefited from or contributed to the area's environmental improvements. Scholars argue that this process undermines the social equity goals often associated with sustainability, creating a tension between ecological progress and social justice. Consequently, urban planners are now urged to integrate affordable housing policies and community engagement into green development schemes to mitigate such displacement effects.
❓ According to the passage, what is a major unintended consequence of urban sustainability projects?
A. They lead to a decline in property values in nearby areas.
B. They force original low-income residents to move out due to rising costs.
C. They exclusively benefit wealthy newcomers while harming the environment.
D. They cause a complete halt in green infrastructure development.
✅ Correct Answer
B. B. They force original low-income residents to move out due to rising costs.