Summary
Urbanization is the study of the social, political, and economic relationships in cities. There are three prerequisites for the development of a city. First, a good environment with fresh water and a favorable climate; second, advanced technology, producing a food surplus to support non-farmers; and third, strong social organization to ensure social stability and a stable economy. Urbanization levels are affected by two things – migration and natural increase. Global urbanization reached the 50 percent mark in 2008, meaning that more than half of the global population lived in cities compared to only 30 percent 50 years ago. Access to basic services— clean water, sanitation, electricity, and roads—are some of the main urbanization challenges facing the developing world. Long commute times, observed in sprawling metropolitan areas, are unsustainable in many aspects. Various negative health and environmental consequences related to these development trends can be identified. Green urbanism is a conceptual model that seeks to transform and reengineer existing city districts and regenerate the post-industrial city center. It promotes the development of socially and environmentally sustainable city districts. The principles of green urbanism offer practical steps on the path to sustainable cities, harmonizing growth and usage of resources.
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Chapter Attributions:
Essentials of Environmental Science by Kamala Doršner is licensed under CC BY 4.0.