Final answer:
The rise in a town's temperature due to urban population growth can be attributed to the urban heat island effect, an increase in energy use, and higher greenhouse gas emissions, all of which can subsequently lead to various forms of pollution and environmental strain.
Step-by-step explanation:
As an urban population grows, the town's temperature can rise as a result of several interrelated factors. One significant factor is the urban heat island effect, where the concentration of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure absorbs and retains heat more than natural landscapes, such as forests or rural areas. The construction of new factories and residential communities will likely contribute to this effect. An additional factor is the increase in energy use, generating more heat through air conditioning, transportation, and industrial processes. Moreover, an expansion in population may lead to higher levels of greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels, which traps more heat in the atmosphere and contributes to global warming.
Another environmental impact from urban development is the potential for increased pollution, which can compromise the health of the ecosystem and residents. When soil, water, and air are polluted, it can lead to detrimental effects on human health and the environment, exacerbating issues like respiratory diseases and water quality degradation. Thus, the town council's concern for environmental effects stemming from urban development is indeed warranted, as such growth often comes with significant challenges to environmental sustainability.