Urbanisation | Key words (2)

urbanisation

the process by which an increasing proportion of a population lives in urban areas, resulting in the growth of cities and towns as people move from rural areas

deindustrialisation

the decline of industrial activity in a region or economy, often leading to the closure of factories and job losses, frequently observed in post-industrial cities

suburbanisation

the movement of people from urban areas to the suburbs, often characterised by the development of residential areas, leading to changes in land use and population distribution

gentrification

the process in which urban neighbourhoods undergo a transformation due to an influx of higher-income residents, resulting in increased property values, displacement of existing residents, and changes in the local culture

urban sprawl

the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land, characterised by low-density development and reliance on automobiles, which can lead to increased traffic congestion and environmental concerns

brownfield sites

previously developed land that is not currently in use and may be contaminated, which presents opportunities for urban regeneration and redevelopment

smart cities

urban areas that utilise digital technology and data collection to improve the efficiency of services, enhance quality of life, and promote sustainability through innovations in transportation, energy, and infrastructure

social inequality

the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities among different groups within a city, often manifested in disparities in income, education, housing, and access to services

the urban heat island effect

a phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities, built environments, and reduced vegetation, leading to increased energy consumption and health issues

sustainable urban development

an approach to urban planning and design that seeks to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity, ensuring that urban areas can meet the needs of present and future generations