Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 36 to 40.

Urbanization, (36) _______, has been a defining trend of the 21st century. While this phenomenon has brought about numerous benefits, including increased economic opportunities and improved access to services, it has also had a profound impact on local communities, often leading to their decline.
The rapid growth of cities has led to a mass exodus from rural areas, (37) _______. This migration has resulted in a brain drain from smaller communities, with young, educated individuals being the most likely to leave. As a result, many rural areas have older populations and fewer workers, making it difficult to support local economies and basic services.
(38) _______. As cities grow, they encroach upon surrounding rural areas, leading to the loss of farmland and green spaces. This (39) _______, further eroding the character of rural communities.
The rise of big-box stores and online shopping has dealt another blow to local communities. (40) _______. This has led to the closure of many local shops, leaving once-vibrant main streets eerily quiet and diminishing the sense of community.
(Adapted from https://ielts.net)