Urban environments Flashcards
What are the characteristics of urban places?
- Site
- Function
- Land use
- Hierarchy of settlement (including megacities)
- Growth process (planned or spontaneous)
Define site
Site refers to the specific physical characteristics and exact location of a settlement on Earth, including factors like topography, climate, and natural resources. It is the actual land where a settlement is built, which can be identified using GPS coordinates.
Key aspects of site include:
- Physical features: Such as elevation, vegetation, and climate.
- Human characteristics: Including cultural and economic attributes that influence the settlement’s development.
Define function
Function in geography refers to the primary activities or purposes that a settlement serves. It encompasses the economic, social, and political roles that a location fulfills within its region. Functions can vary widely, but they typically include:
- Residential: Areas primarily designated for housing.
- Commercial: Spaces for businesses and retail activities.
- Industrial: Locations for manufacturing and production facilities.
- Recreational: Areas designated for leisure and entertainment activities.
- Governmental: Sites that host administrative functions and services.
Define land use
Land use refers to the management and modification of natural environments or wilderness into built environments for specific purposes. It encompasses the various ways humans utilize land, including economic, social, and cultural activities. The concept is crucial for understanding how human activities affect the physical landscape, resource allocation, and sustainability.
Key aspects of land use include:
- Types of Land Use: Common categories include:
- Agricultural: Land used for farming and livestock.
- Residential: Areas designated for housing.
- Commercial: Spaces for business activities.
- Industrial: Locations for manufacturing and production.
- Recreational: Areas for leisure activities, such as parks.
- Transportation: Infrastructure like roads and railways.
Land use decisions can lead to significant environmental changes, influencing issues like urban sprawl, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss
Define hierarchy of settlement (including megacities)
The hierarchy of settlement refers to the organization and classification of human settlements based on their size, population, and the range of services they provide. Settlements are typically arranged in a pyramid structure, with larger and more complex settlements at the top and smaller, simpler ones at the bottom. This hierarchy helps to understand the relationship between different types of settlements and their functions within a region.
Levels of Settlement Hierarchy
- Isolated Dwelling: The smallest unit, often consisting of a single household with minimal or no services.
- Hamlet: A small settlement with a few dozen to about 100 residents, offering limited services.
- Village: Larger than hamlets, villages typically have populations ranging from 100 to 1,000 and provide basic services like shops or schools.
- Small Town: Populations range from 1,000 to 20,000, with a wider array of services.
- Large Town: With populations between 20,000 and 100,000, large towns offer more specialized services.
- City: Cities have populations from 100,000 up to one million and provide extensive services and amenities.
- Conurbation: A large urban area formed by the merging of multiple cities or towns.
- Megacity: Defined as a city with a population exceeding 10 million people. Megacities are often characterized by their significant influence on regional and global scales and may also serve as primate cities (cities that are significantly larger than any other city in the country) .
Define growth process (planned or spontaneous)
The growth process in urban geography refers to the ways in which cities and settlements expand and develop over time. This growth can be categorized into two main types: planned and spontaneous.
Planned Growth:
- Planned growth occurs when urban development is intentionally designed and managed by authorities. This type of growth involves strategic planning to ensure that infrastructure, services, and community needs are adequately met. Key features include:
- Deliberate Expansion: Authorities designate areas for development, ensuring that they have necessary infrastructure such as transportation, utilities, and public services.
- Sustainable Development: Planned growth often incorporates environmental considerations, aiming to create livable spaces that balance economic development with ecological sustainability.
Examples: Cities like Brasília in Brazil were designed from the ground up with a specific plan, including zoning for residential, commercial, and governmental areas.
Spontaneous Growth
Spontaneous growth refers to unplanned urban expansion that occurs as a result of natural population increases or migration without formal planning. This type of growth often leads to informal settlements and can result in various challenges. Key characteristics include:
- Uncontrolled Expansion: Growth occurs organically as people move into an area, often resulting in informal housing developments or slums.
- Lack of Infrastructure: Spontaneous settlements frequently lack essential services such as water supply, sanitation, and proper roads, leading to poor living conditions35.
- Examples: Many megacities experience spontaneous growth on their fringes, where migrants settle without adequate planning or support from local governments.
How does function and land use differ from one another?
Function:
- Definition: Function refers to the primary activities or roles that a settlement or area serves within its socio-economic context. It encompasses the economic, social, and political roles that a location fulfills.
- Examples: Functions can include residential (housing), commercial (business activities), industrial (manufacturing), recreational (leisure spaces), and governmental (administrative services). For instance, a city may function as a commercial hub while also providing residential areas and parks.
Land Use:
- Definition: Land use describes how land is utilized and managed for various purposes. It includes the classification of land based on its physical characteristics and the activities that occur on it.
- Examples: Common categories of land use include agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational. For instance, a piece of land may be designated as agricultural land for farming or as residential land for housing.
What are the characteristics of megacities?
Characteristics of Megacities
- Population Size: Megacities have populations of over 10 million people.
- Services: They provide a vast range of high-order services such as universities, hospitals, and extensive public transport systems.
- Urbanization: The rapid growth of megacities is often driven by urbanization and migration from rural areas.
What factors affect the pattern of economic activities (retail, commercial and industrial)?
- Physical factors
- Land values
- Proximity to a central business district
- Planning
How do physical factors affect the pattern of urban economic activities?
- Topography
- Landform Characteristics: The physical landscape, including hills, valleys, and flat plains, determines the suitability of land for various economic activities. For instance, industrial areas typically require large, flat expanses of land for manufacturing processes, while retail and commercial activities may thrive in more accessible, central locations.
- Accessibility: Areas that are easily accessible due to favorable topography tend to attract more businesses and services. Conversely, rugged or hilly terrains may hinder development and reduce land value. - Water Resources
- Proximity to Water Bodies: Access to rivers, lakes, or coastlines is crucial for many industries, particularly those reliant on shipping or fishing. Industries often locate near water sources to facilitate transportation and resource availability.
- Flooding Risks: Areas prone to flooding or other natural hazards can deter economic activities due to the potential for damage to infrastructure and property. Businesses seek locations that minimize risk from such hazards. - Climate
Weather Conditions: The local climate influences the types of industries that can thrive in an area. For example, agriculture is heavily dependent on climate conditions, while certain manufacturing processes may require specific temperature or humidity levels.
Natural Disasters: Regions susceptible to extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes, heavy rainfall) may face challenges in sustaining economic activities due to interruptions and damage caused by such disasters. - Land Use and Land Value
- Bid-Rent Theory: This theory explains how land values decrease with distance from the Central Business District (CBD). Businesses willing to pay higher rents tend to locate closer to the CBD where accessibility is highest, while industries that require more space often move toward the city’s periphery where land is cheaper.
- Zoning Regulations: Local government policies regarding land use can dictate where certain types of economic activities can occur, influencing patterns of development based on physical characteristics of the land24.
How do land values affect the pattern of economic activities?
Proximity to the CBD:
- Higher Land Values: Land prices are typically highest in and around the CBD due to high demand for accessibility and visibility. Retailers and service providers are often willing to pay premium rents to be located where foot traffic is greatest, leading to a concentration of commercial activities in these areas.
- Economic Functions: As a result, the CBD tends to host high-order services (e.g., banks, luxury retailers) that require significant customer interaction, while lower-order services (e.g., local shops) may locate further away where rents are lower6.
Land Use Zoning:
- Differentiated Land Uses: The pattern of land use within a city is shaped by varying land values. High-value areas are often zoned for commercial use, while lower-value areas may be designated for residential or industrial purposes. This zoning reflects the economic activities that can afford the associated land costs.
- Spatial Distribution: Economic activities tend to cluster based on their rent-paying abilities, leading to concentric rings of land use around the CBD, with retail at the center, followed by commercial and industrial uses, and then residential areas further out.
Transportation Costs:
- Accessibility: Businesses that rely heavily on customer access or transportation of goods prefer locations with lower transportation costs. As land values decrease with distance from the CBD, businesses that can tolerate higher transport costs (like manufacturing) may locate further away25.
- Urban Expansion: As cities grow and develop, more remote locations become viable for economic activities as land prices rise due to increased demand for space. This often leads to urban sprawl and changes in land use patterns as businesses seek affordable locations while still maintaining accessibility to markets.
Market Dynamics:
- Competition for Space: Different economic activities compete for limited urban space based on their revenue-generating potential. Higher-value uses tend to displace lower-value ones as demand increases, leading to gentrification and changes in neighborhood character over time.
- Investment Decisions: Developers and investors consider land values when making decisions about where to build or invest in infrastructure. High land values can attract more investment into an area, further enhancing its economic profile and activity levels.
How does the proximity to a central business district (CBD) affect the pattern of urban economic activities?
High Land Values:
- CBDs typically feature the highest land values in a city due to their prime location and accessibility. This attracts businesses that can afford the costs, leading to a concentration of high-order services such as finance, law, and luxury retail. As a result, economic activities in the CBD are predominantly tertiary sector activities focused on service provision.
Accessibility and Transportation:
- CBDs are often well-connected by public transportation, making them accessible to a large workforce and customer base. This accessibility encourages businesses to locate there to maximize foot traffic and customer interaction, further reinforcing the concentration of economic activities. The presence of major transport hubs facilitates the movement of goods and people, enhancing economic dynamism.
Diverse Economic Functions:
- While traditionally dominated by office spaces and commercial activities, CBDs are increasingly evolving into mixed-use areas that incorporate residential, recreational, and cultural functions. This diversification helps attract a broader demographic, including residents who contribute to local economies through spending on services and amenities. The shift towards more vibrant, multi-purpose districts reflects changing consumer preferences and work patterns.
Competition from Emerging Districts:
- As urban areas develop, new mixed-use neighborhoods are emerging that offer attractive alternatives to traditional CBDs. These districts often provide a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, appealing to businesses and residents alike. This competition pressures established CBDs to adapt by enhancing their offerings and amenities to retain economic activity.
Economic Resilience:
- CBDs that successfully integrate diverse functions and respond to urban challenges—such as hybrid work trends—tend to be more resilient. Research indicates that those with a variety of residents, employees, and visitors are thriving compared to those overly reliant on office space4. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining economic vitality in the face of changing urban dynamics.
How does planning affect the pattern of urban economic activities?
- Infrastructure Development
- Investment in Infrastructure: Effective urban planning prioritizes robust infrastructure, such as transportation networks, utilities, and public services. Well-maintained infrastructure reduces transportation costs and enhances accessibility, attracting businesses and facilitating economic activities. For instance, improved roads and public transit systems can lead to increased foot traffic for local businesses, boosting their economic viability. - Zoning Regulations
- Mixed-Use Zoning: Urban planners often implement mixed-use zoning that allows for diverse activities within a single area. This integration of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces fosters vibrant neighborhoods and stimulates local economies by attracting a variety of businesses and services. Such zoning encourages economic diversity and can enhance the overall quality of life for residents. - Business Incentives
- Economic Development Policies: Urban planning can include policies that incentivize business development in targeted areas through tax breaks, grants, or streamlined permitting processes. These incentives can attract new businesses, stimulate job creation, and contribute to the city’s economic vitality. By strategically guiding where businesses can thrive, planners can influence local employment patterns. - Sustainable Practices
- Focus on Sustainability: Planning that incorporates sustainable practices—such as green building initiatives and transit-oriented development—can lead to long-term economic benefits. Sustainable urban environments often attract businesses and residents who prioritize eco-friendly practices, enhancing the city’s appeal and competitiveness. This approach can also reduce operational costs for businesses through energy efficiency. - Affordable Housing Initiatives
- Housing Affordability: Urban planners play a vital role in addressing housing affordability, which directly impacts the local economy. By ensuring that diverse housing options are available, planners support a stable workforce that can live close to their jobs, thereby promoting economic stability and growth. Affordable housing initiatives help retain talent and support local businesses by providing a customer base. - Technology and Innovation Hubs
- Creation of Innovation Districts: Strategic planning can lead to the establishment of technology and innovation hubs that foster collaboration between businesses, research institutions, and startups. These hubs attract investment and talent, driving economic growth by creating new technologies and industries. By focusing on infrastructure that supports innovation—such as high-speed internet—planners can enhance a city’s competitiveness.
What factors affect the pattern of residential areas within urban areas?
- Physical factors
- Land values
- Ethnicity
- Planning
How do physical factors affect the pattern of residential areas within urban areas?
Topography
- Landforms: The physical landscape, including hills, valleys, and flat plains, determines the suitability of land for residential development. For example, steep slopes may be less desirable for housing due to construction challenges and potential landslide risks, leading to lower residential density in such areas.
- Proximity to Water: Areas near rivers, lakes, or coastlines often attract residential development due to aesthetic appeal and recreational opportunities. However, flood risks can deter housing in these locations unless adequate mitigation measures are in place.
- Accessibility
- Transportation Links: Proximity to major roads, public transport systems, and other infrastructure influences residential patterns. Areas with better accessibility tend to have higher property values and attract more residents. Conversely, regions with limited access may see lower demand for housing.
- Urban Fringe Development: As cities expand outward, the urban fringe often develops into suburban areas where land is more affordable. This trend is influenced by the desire for larger homes and green spaces away from the city center. - Environmental Hazards
- Natural Risks: Areas prone to flooding, earthquakes, or other natural disasters may see reduced residential development due to safety concerns. Urban planners often avoid high-risk zones when designating land for housing.
- Climate Considerations: Local climate conditions can affect livability and desirability. For example, regions with extreme temperatures may see different housing designs (like air conditioning) or types of materials used compared to more temperate areas. - Land Values
- Bid Rent Theory: This theory explains how land values decrease with distance from the Central Business District (CBD). High land values near the CBD typically lead to dense housing (like apartments) close to commercial centers, while lower land values further out allow for larger homes with gardens in suburban areas.
- Affordability: In high-income countries (HICs), affluent residents often live on the outskirts where housing is larger and more spacious, while lower-income populations may reside in older inner-city areas with higher density and poorer living conditions.
How do land values affect the pattern of residential areas within urban areas?
- Proximity to the CBD
- High Land Values Near the CBD: Areas closest to the CBD typically have the highest land values due to demand for accessibility and commercial opportunities. Consequently, these high-value areas are often reserved for retail and commercial uses, limiting residential development in favor of businesses that can afford the premium rents.
- Residential Density: As you move away from the city center (CBD), land becomes cheaper. This cheaper land allows for bigger houses and fewer houses per area in the suburbs. For example, old factory areas near the city center often have less expensive housing options, like row houses or lower-quality homes. This pattern doesn’t cause the CBD to decrease; it’s a natural result of how cities grow and how land prices change based on location. The CBD remains valuable, but land farther away is less expensive, allowing for different types of housing and development. - Socio-Economic Segregation
- Residential Patterns by Income: Land values influence where different socio-economic groups reside. Higher-income households are more likely to live closer to the CBD or in well-developed suburban areas with good amenities, while lower-income populations may be pushed to less desirable areas further from the center due to affordability issues.
- Gentrification: In some cases, rising land values can lead to gentrification, where wealthier individuals move into previously low-income neighborhoods, driving up property prices and displacing existing residents. This process alters the socio-economic landscape of urban areas and can lead to increased demand for high-quality housing closer to urban amenities. - Physical Factors:
- Proximity to water: In high-income countries (HICs), waterfront properties often have high land values due to desirable views and pleasant environments. Conversely, in low-income countries (LICs) and some middle-income countries (MICs), areas near water may have lower land values due to flood risks and pollution.
- Slopes and elevation: In HICs, hillside residences often have high land values due to scenic views and cooler temperatures in hot climates. However, in LICs, slopes may have lower land values and be occupied by informal settlements due to instability and landslide risks. - Infrastructure and Accessibility
- Transport links: Modern developments have made transport accessibility more important in determining land values. Areas near airports or highway junctions on city outskirts may have higher land values than some inner-city locations.
- Quality of infrastructure: Areas with good infrastructure (roads, water, electricity) tend to have higher land values as they are more desirable for development and easier to access. - Urban Planning and Zoning
- Land use regulations: Zoning policies can significantly impact land values by limiting or encouraging development in certain areas. For example, land designated for parks or natural areas may have higher values, while areas near parking lots or government activities may have lower values.
- Urban sprawl: The expansion of cities into surrounding rural areas can initially increase suburban property values but may lead to decreased values in inner-city areas due to neglect and reduced investment. - Redevelopment and Gentrification
Inner-city regeneration: The redevelopment of old industrial areas in inner cities has attracted high-income residents, particularly young professionals, leading to increased land values in these historic areas.
- Gentrification: This process can significantly alter land values in previously low-value neighborhoods, driving up prices as areas become more desirable. - Environmental Factors
- Green spaces: Proximity to parks and other green areas can increase land values due to the amenity value they provide.
Environmental risks: Areas prone to natural hazards (e.g., flooding, landslides) often have lower land values, particularly in LICs where mitigation measures may be limited.
How does ethnicity affect the pattern of residential areas within urban areas?
- Formation of Ethnic Enclaves
- Cultural Clustering: Ethnic groups often cluster in specific neighborhoods, creating distinct cultural enclaves. These areas, such as Chinatowns or Little Italys, provide familiar cultural amenities (restaurants, shops, and community centers) that cater to the needs of the ethnic population. This clustering can enhance social cohesion and support networks within the community.
- Social Support: Ethnic enclaves offer social support systems for new immigrants, facilitating adaptation to a new environment while maintaining cultural ties. These neighborhoods can become vibrant centers of cultural identity, attracting others from similar backgrounds. - Residential Segregation
- Positive and Negative Segregation: Ethnic segregation can manifest as both positive and negative. Positive segregation refers to the benefits of living in a community with shared cultural practices and resources, while negative segregation occurs when certain groups are excluded from particular neighborhoods due to discrimination or economic barriers. This can lead to disparities in access to services and opportunities.
- Impact of Discrimination: Historical and systemic discrimination has led to significant residential segregation. Policies such as redlining have restricted access to housing for minority groups, reinforcing patterns of segregation and limiting socio-economic mobility. - Socio-Economic Factors
- Income Disparities: Economic status plays a crucial role in residential patterns. Wealthier ethnic groups may move into more affluent neighborhoods, while lower-income groups often remain in areas with fewer resources. This economic stratification can lead to distinct residential areas based on ethnicity and income levels.
- Gentrification: In some cases, gentrification can alter the ethnic composition of neighborhoods as higher-income residents move in, driving up property values and rents. This process can displace long-time residents from minority communities, leading to cultural shifts and tensions within neighborhoods. - Changing Dynamics Over Time
- Dispersal Trends: While ethnic groups may initially cluster in specific areas, over time, they may disperse throughout the city as they achieve economic stability or seek better living conditions. This dispersal can lead to more integrated neighborhoods but may also result in the loss of cultural hubs.
- Impact of Migration Patterns: Ongoing immigration contributes to changing residential patterns as new ethnic groups settle in urban areas. Their locations may be influenced by existing communities or economic opportunities available in certain neighborhoods.
How does planning affect the pattern of residential areas within urban areas?
- Land Use Zoning
- Pre-Determined Areas: Urban planning often involves zoning regulations that designate specific areas for residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use purposes. These regulations dictate the type and density of housing that can be developed in a given area, influencing where people can live.
- Impact on Density: Zoning laws can promote high-density housing near urban centers or public transport hubs while encouraging lower-density developments in suburban areas. This results in distinct residential patterns based on accessibility and land value. - Infrastructure Development
- Transportation Networks: Effective urban planning includes the development of transportation infrastructure, such as roads and public transit systems. Areas with better access to transportation tend to attract more residential development due to their desirability and convenience for commuting 3.
- Utilities and Services: Planning also encompasses the provision of essential services (water, electricity, waste management) that impact the livability of residential areas. Well-planned infrastructure increases the attractiveness of neighborhoods for potential residents. - Housing Diversity
- Mix of Housing Types: Modern urban planning increasingly aims to create diverse housing options within neighborhoods, including single-family homes, apartments, and affordable housing units. This diversity caters to various socio-economic groups and promotes inclusivity.
- Social Housing Initiatives: Local governments may implement policies to provide social or affordable housing in desirable areas, helping to mitigate issues of segregation and inequality by ensuring that lower-income families have access to quality housing options. - Environmental Considerations
- Sustainable Development: Urban planners are increasingly incorporating sustainability into their designs by integrating green spaces, parks, and environmentally friendly building practices. This emphasis on sustainability can enhance the quality of life in residential areas and attract residents who prioritize eco-friendly living.
- Resilience Planning: Planners also consider environmental risks (e.g., flooding, heat islands) when designing residential areas. By avoiding high-risk zones and promoting resilient infrastructure, they help protect communities from potential hazards.
What is the incidence of poverty (housing and industry) in urban areas at varying stages of development?
- Low-Income Countries
- High Rates of Slum Dwellings: In developing regions, a significant proportion of the urban population lives in slums or informal settlements. Approximately 1.1 billion people were reported to live in such conditions in 2020, with projections suggesting this could rise to 3 billion by 20501. These areas often face severe deprivations, including inadequate housing, lack of access to clean water and sanitation, and limited infrastructure.
- Multidimensional Poverty: Poverty in these contexts is not solely defined by income but also includes factors like access to education, healthcare, and secure housing. Residents of informal neighborhoods experience higher rates of multidimensional poverty compared to those in formal housing. - Middle-Income Countries
- Urban Inequality: Many middle-income countries exhibit rising urban poverty due to rapid urbanization and economic shifts. For example, cities in Latin America and parts of Africa are witnessing increasing disparities as economic opportunities concentrate in certain urban areas while others remain marginalized.
- Housing Crisis: In cities like Buenos Aires or those in Sub-Saharan Africa, the incidence of poverty is exacerbated by housing crises that force low-income households into precarious living conditions without basic services10. The “reproductive squeeze” phenomenon highlights how systemic pressures can push households into more vulnerable living arrangements, particularly affecting marginalized groups. - High-Income Countries
- Rising Urban Poverty: Even in affluent nations, urban poverty persists and can be severe. For instance, U.S. cities have seen increased housing unaffordability and a growing number of households living without basic amenities such as running water, particularly among households of color.
- Concentration of Poverty: In some high-income cities, poverty is concentrated in specific neighborhoods characterized by low investment and poor infrastructure. Although overall poverty rates may be lower than in developing regions, the urban poor often face significant challenges related to cost-of-living increases and limited access to quality housing
While the overall incidence of poverty may be lower in urban areas compared to rural settings (as seen in some studies indicating a higher percentage of the rural population living below the poverty line), urban areas often house a larger absolute number of poor individuals due to their size and density510. In high-density urban settings, the cost of living can negate the benefits typically associated with higher income levels. Also, specific metropolitan areas within countries can exhibit stark differences in poverty rates. For example, certain U.S. metropolitan areas have reported poverty rates as high as 27.2% (McAllen-Edinburg-Mission) compared to national averages
What is the incidence of deprivation (housing and industry) in urban areas at varying stages of development?
- Low-Income Countries
- High Rates of Slum Dwellings: In developing countries, a substantial portion of the urban population lives in slums or informal settlements. As of recent estimates, about 881 million people globally reside in slums, which represent nearly 32% of the urban population in these regions. In some cities, slum populations can account for 50% or more of the total urban population.
- Deprivations Faced: Residents in these areas experience severe deprivations, including inadequate housing conditions, lack of access to clean water and sanitation, overcrowding, and insecure tenure. Such conditions are often exacerbated by rapid urbanization and insufficient infrastructure. The prevalence of slums is linked to factors such as high land costs, limited mortgage facilities, and inadequate public housing provision. - Middle-Income Countries
- Urban Inequality: As countries transition to middle-income status, urban poverty often persists alongside economic growth. Rapid urbanization can lead to increased inequality as wealth becomes concentrated in certain areas while others remain underdeveloped. For instance, cities in Latin America and parts of Africa face rising urban poverty due to economic disparities and inadequate housing options.
- Housing Challenges: In these contexts, many low-income households find themselves in precarious living situations due to rising housing costs and insufficient affordable housing options. The lack of effective urban planning can lead to the proliferation of informal settlements as people migrate to cities seeking better opportunities. - High-Income Countries
- Emerging Urban Poverty: Despite higher overall living standards, urban deprivation is not absent in high-income countries. Issues such as homelessness and inadequate affordable housing have become pressing concerns in major cities like London and New York. The rise in housing costs has pushed many low-income families into substandard living conditions or homelessnes .
- Social Housing Shortages: In developed nations, the inadequacy of social housing and the high cost of living contribute to a growing divide between affluent neighborhoods and those experiencing deprivation. Urban policies may struggle to keep pace with rising demand for affordable housing, leading to increased rates of poverty among marginalized groups.
While overall poverty rates may be lower in urban areas compared to rural settings (as seen in some studies), urban environments often contain higher absolute numbers of impoverished individuals due to their larger populations. For example, despite lower poverty incidence rates, urban areas can house significant numbers of people living in slum-like conditions. Also, projections indicate that by 2030, an additional 1.4 billion people will be drawn to urban centers, with a significant portion expected to live in slums if adequate infrastructure and services are not developed.
What is the incidence of informal activity (housing and industry) in urban areas at varying stages of development?
- Low-Income Countries
- Prevalence of Informal Settlements: In many low-income countries, informal settlements are a dominant feature of urbanization. Approximately 90% of urban areas in developing countries contain informal settlements, which house around 1 billion people globally. These settlements often arise due to rapid urbanization, rural-to-urban migration, and inadequate housing options.
- Characteristics: Informal settlements typically consist of makeshift housing with poor infrastructure, lacking basic services such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity. They are often located in high-risk areas and are characterized by insecure land tenure, leading to vulnerability among residents.
- Economic Activities: Informal economic activities are prevalent in these areas, with residents engaging in small-scale trade and services to sustain their livelihoods. The informal sector plays a crucial role in urban economies by providing employment and contributing to local economies despite the lack of formal recognition. - Middle-Income Countries
Emerging Informal Activity: As countries transition to middle-income status, the incidence of informal settlements continues to be significant. Cities in regions like Latin America and parts of Africa experience rising informal activity due to economic disparities and insufficient affordable housing options.
- Urban Inequality: The growth of informal settlements often reflects broader socio-economic inequalities, where marginalized populations are pushed into substandard living conditions. Urban planning failures contribute to the proliferation of these settlements as demand for affordable housing outstrips supply.
- Contributions to Urban Development: Despite challenges, informal settlements can contribute to urban development by generating economic activity and providing affordable housing options. Policymakers are increasingly recognizing the need to engage with these communities to improve living conditions and integrate them into the broader urban fabric. - High-Income Countries
- Emerging Informality: While high-income countries generally have lower rates of informal settlements compared to low- and middle-income countries, issues related to informal housing still exist. For example, some urban areas face challenges related to homelessness and inadequate affordable housing options.
- Informal Economic Activities: In cities like New York or London, informal economic activities may manifest through street vending or unregulated rental markets, often catering to low-income populations who cannot afford formal housing.
- Policy Responses: High-income countries may implement policies aimed at addressing informal housing through social housing initiatives or regulations that support affordable housing development. However, challenges remain in effectively ntegrating informal sectors into formal economies.
The United Nations projects that by 2050, approximately 3 billion people could be living in informal settlements due to ongoing urbanization trends, particularly in developing regions where rapid. Also, displacement from conflicts or natural disasters can exacerbate the incidence of informal settlements as affected populations seek refuge in urban areas without adequate formal housing options.
Define urbanisation
Urbanization is the process by which an increasing proportion of a population moves from rural areas to urban areas, resulting in the growth of cities and towns. This shift involves not only a change in residence but also significant social, economic, and cultural transformations as societies adapt to urban living.
Urbanization is characterized by a demographic transition where the number of people living in urban areas increases while the proportion living in rural areas decreases. This trend reflects broader changes in lifestyle, employment, and social structures. Urbanization leads to the development and expansion of cities as more individuals migrate to urban centers seeking better economic opportunities, education, healthcare, and improved living conditions.
Define natural increase
Natural increase refers to the difference between the number of live births and the number of deaths in a population over a specific period, typically one year. It is a key demographic measure used to assess population growth dynamics. A positive natural increase occurs when the number of births exceeds the number of deaths, leading to an overall increase in population. A negative natural increase happens when deaths outnumber births, resulting in a decline in population. Natural increase can be expressed as a rate, often calculated by subtracting the crude death rate from the crude birth rate. It can also be represented as a percentage or as a number per 1,000 individuals in the population.
Define centripetal movements
Centripetal movements refer to the movements of people, goods, or services towards a central point or area, typically within an urban context. This concept is often contrasted with centrifugal movements, which describe the tendency of people or activities to move away from a central location.
Centripetal movements are commonly seen in urban areas where populations migrate towards city centers for better economic opportunities, access to services, and social amenities. This can lead to increased population density in central business districts (CBDs) and surrounding neighborhoods. As businesses and industries locate in central areas, there is a corresponding movement of labor towards these locations. This concentration of economic activity can enhance job opportunities and attract further investment.