Studies Find Sprawl Decreases Health, Increases Pollution

Two comprehensive studies conclude that sprawl has negative effects on public health and pollution; however, many remain skeptical.

1 minute read

January 27, 2006, 10:00 AM PST

By Mike Lydon

"Residents of King County's less-walkable neighborhoods -- can you say sprawl? -- are more likely to be overweight, a recently completed study concludes.

Another related study has found, perhaps not surprisingly, that people who live and work in those neighborhoods generate more auto-related air pollution, another potential threat to health."

"The research isn't likely to end the debate over sprawl and health."

"If you're listing things that impact obesity, neighborhood design would be maybe 10th on my list," said Tim Attebury, King County manager for the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties. "I would put McDonald's and too much TV way in front of neighborhood design."

Thanks to Jason Miller

Read the full story: 2 studies: Urban sprawl adds pounds, pollution

Wednesday, January 25, 2006 in The Seattle Times

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