What was one major environmental consequence of the Industrial Revolution?

One major environmental consequence of the Industrial Revolution was increased pollution. This period marked a significant shift in production methods, with factories using coal and other fossil fuels as primary energy sources. These processes emitted large quantities of smoke, soot, and chemicals into the air, leading to severe air quality deterioration. Additionally, industrial activities often discharged waste directly into rivers and streams, contaminating water supplies and harming ecosystems. This pollution had lasting effects on both human health and the environment, prompting public awareness and eventual regulatory responses in later years.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of the Industrial Revolution. There was no improvement in air quality; in fact, industrial growth led to its decline. Urban populations grew as people moved to cities for work in factories, contradicting the notion of declining urban populations. Restoration of natural habitats was also not a result of industrialization, as much land was transformed for industrial use, displacing wildlife and natural ecosystems.