Urbanization

Environmental Benefits and Challenges

Tim Seddon

Introduction

For the first time in history, more than half its human population, 3.3 billion people, will be living in urban areas. United Nations Population Fund (2007).

The Benefits and Challenges

Benefits: 1. Economic Progress 2. Vertical Development Challenges: 1. Heat Island Effect 2. Urban Poverty

Benefit #1 Economic Progress

Diversified Economic Base

Employment Opportunities and Income High Standard of Living

Benefit #2 Vertical Development

Provides More Housing

Uses Less Land and Resources

Consolidates People, Goods and Services

Challenge #1 Heat Island Effect

Increased Temperatures

Increased Pollution and Gas Emissions Decreased Water and Living Quality

Challenge #2 Urban Poverty

Insufficient Incomes

Inadequate Housing Health Problems

Conclusion

The urban settings are an increasing realism for people everywhere. The ability to deal effectively with this expected urban growth will require an open mind.

References
Axia College of University of Phoenix. (2008). Visualizing Environmental Science. Retrieved December 5, 2008, from Axia College, aXcess, SCI275-Environmental Science Course Web site. California Institute of Public Affairs. (2007). Global urbanization and protected areas. Retrieved December 6, 2008, from http://www.interenvironment.org/cipa/urb-6.htm United Nations Educational, Scientific and Culture Organization. (n.d.). City Management in Tilburg: Past, Present and Future The Netherlands. Retrieved December 7, 2008, from http://www.unesco.org/most/westeu14.htm United Nations Educational, Scientific and Culture Organization. (n.d.). The Bronx Center Project - "Don't Move, Improve" USA. Retrieved December 6, 2008, from http://www.unesco.org/most/usa1.htm United Nations Population Fund. (2007). State of the World Population 2007. Retrieved December 7, 2008, from http://www.unfpa.org/swp/2007/english/introduction.html