Urbanization Study Notes

Urbanization

  • Definition of Urbanization (VERY IMPORTANT)

    • Urbanization = the process of changing from a rural way of life to an urban way of life.

    • Represents an increase in the percentage of a country’s population living in cities.

  • Statistics from Canada

    • In 2020, 81.6% of Canadians lived in urban areas.

    • This was an increase of 0.4% since 2011.

    • Urbanization is a continuous process.

Urban Growth

  • Definition of Urban Growth

    • Urban growth = the actual increase in the number of people living in a city.

  • Important Distinction

    • Urbanization = percentage of people living in cities.

    • Urban growth = total population increase in a city.

Reasons for Urban Growth (MEMORIZE THESE)

  • Common Reasons (Teachers LOVE this question):

    1. Natural population increase

    • More births than deaths.

    1. Industrialization and commercialization

    • More factories, offices, and jobs created.

    1. Development of transportation and communication

    • Improved infrastructure such as roads, public transit, and internet access.

    1. Availability of services

    • Access to schools, hospitals, recreation facilities, and shopping centers.

Problems Caused by Urban Growth

  • Challenges due to Rapid Growth

    • Difficulty maintaining livability.

    • Difficulty maintaining sustainability.

    • Urban sprawl leading to expansion issues.

    • Loss of green space.

    • Various forms of pollution including air, water, and noise.

Urban Sprawl (VERY IMPORTANT)

  • Definition of Urban Sprawl

    • Urban sprawl = the expansion of urban development onto undeveloped land near a city.

  • Problems Associated with Urban Sprawl

    • Environmental pressure from development.

    • Loss of farmland due to expansion.

    • Increased car use leading to more pollution.

Peri-urban Zone

  • Definition of Peri-urban Zone

    • Peri-urban zone = the area next to a city where urban activities gradually replace agricultural activities.

    • Often poorly planned, leading to additional problems.

Sustainability

  • Definition of Sustainability

    • Sustainability = improving quality of life while protecting ecosystems.

    • Emphasizes meeting today’s needs without harming future generations.

How Can Cities Become More Sustainable?

  • Examples applicable for tests 🌱

    • Greenbelts

    • Help limit urban sprawl.

    • Examples include:

      • Ottawa

      • Toronto

      • Vancouver

      • Kitchener

    • Protection Efforts

    • Protect farmland, forests, and environmentally sensitive areas.

    • Sustainable Transportation Options

    • Public transit.

    • Cycling initiatives.

    • Carpooling options.

Livability

  • Definition of Livability

    • Livability = the features that contribute to a community’s quality of life.

  • Examples of Contributing Factors

    • Affordable housing.

    • Availability of parks and green spaces.

    • Safety aspects within communities.

    • Efficient transportation systems.

    • Access to essential services.