What factor contributes to climate change?

Urban development and emissions significantly contribute to climate change due to the increase in greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. As cities expand, transportation, industrial activities, and energy consumption rise, leading to higher emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and other pollutants. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, which results in global warming and alters weather patterns. The deforestation often associated with urban development further exacerbates the issue, as trees that would otherwise absorb carbon dioxide are removed.

In contrast, increased biodiversity and forest preservation play vital roles in mitigating climate change by maintaining healthy ecosystems and promoting carbon sequestration. Likewise, the reduction of greenhouse gases directly helps tackle climate change. Thus, while options highlighting conservation and reduction efforts are beneficial, they do not contribute to climate change in the way urban development and its associated emissions do.