Factors in the degradation of urban environments (e.g. urbanisation, industrial development, inadequate waste management). Flashcards
What is urbanization, and how does it contribute to urban environmental degradation?
Urbanization refers to the increase in the population of people living in urban areas.
Rapid urbanization can lead to overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, housing shortages, and increased pollution
How does industrial development impact urban environments?
Industrial development can lead to air and water pollution, soil contamination, and the destruction of natural habitats.
It often causes increased emissions of greenhouse gases and the dumping of industrial waste in urban areas.
Why is inadequate waste management a major factor in urban environmental degradation?
Inadequate waste management results in littering, overflowing landfills, and improper disposal of hazardous materials, which pollute air, water, and soil and create health hazards for urban populations.
How does poor urban planning contribute to environmental degradation?
Poor urban planning leads to unregulated development, lack of green spaces, inefficient transport systems, and vulnerability to natural disasters, exacerbating environmental problems in urban areas.
What role does transportation play in urban environmental degradation?
Transportation contributes to air pollution through vehicle emissions, noise pollution, and the urban heat island effect. Traffic congestion increases fuel consumption and worsens pollution levels.
How does deforestation in urban areas affect the environment?
Deforestation for urban expansion reduces biodiversity, contributes to the urban heat island effect, increases carbon dioxide levels, and reduces natural flood defenses, worsening urban environmental degradation.
How does population growth exacerbate urban environmental problems?
Population growth increases demand for housing, resources, and services, leading to greater waste generation, resource depletion, and strain on infrastructure, which degrades urban environments.
What are the effects of informal settlements on urban environments?
Informal settlements often lack basic infrastructure such as sewage systems and waste disposal, leading to pollution, health risks, and the degradation of surrounding ecosystems
What role does climate change play in urban environmental degradation?
Climate change exacerbates urban issues like flooding, heatwaves, and resource shortages. Poorly adapted urban areas are more vulnerable to these effects, leading to further environmental degradation.
How does water mismanagement contribute to urban environmental problems?
Poor water management leads to water scarcity, contamination, and flooding. Over-extraction of groundwater and pollution from untreated wastewater are common in poorly managed urban areas.
