Understanding Urbanisation

• Urbanisation is the process by which town and cities grow as people move into these urban areas from rural areas.

• It's both a historical and ongoing process directly linked with globalisation and industrialisation.

• The rate of urbanisation differs from region to region. Developed countries have high urbanisation rates whereas less developed countries are experiencing rapid urbanisation.

Factors Driving Urbanisation

• Rural-urban migration: People move to cities in search of better economic opportunities, education and lifestyle.

• Population growth: Natural increases in population can trigger urbanisation as cities expand to accommodate this growth.

• Economic growth: Economic success often leads to urbanisation as businesses and industries form a key part of urban landscapes.

The Impact of Urbanisation

• Population Density: Cities have high population densities contributing to overcrowding and straining resources.

• Environmental Impact: Urbanisation can lead to land and water pollution, destruction of natural habitats and increased greenhouse gases.

• Social Inequities: Cities often have high levels of socioeconomic disparity, with areas of extreme poverty existing alongside areas of immense wealth.

• Economic Shift: Cities often shift from primary industries such as farming to secondary and tertiary industries such as manufacturing and services.

Differences in Urbanisation in Contrasting Global Cities

• Medellin, Colombia: Squarely located in a developing region, Medellin has seen rapid urban growth. However, this has also coincided with large socioeconomic disparities and environmental issues.

• Tokyo, Japan: As one of the most populous cities in a developed country, Tokyo has seen steady urban growth, accompanied by immense technological advancements and economic success.

• The differences in the process and impacts of urbanisation in these cities illustrates how urbanisation is heavily influenced by factors such as geography, economic systems and historical trajectories.

Remember, understanding the process, impacts and differences in urbanisation between contrasting global cities forms an essential part of your revision on Changing Places - Changing Economies. Looking at specific case studies like Medellin and Tokyo can provide a deeper understanding.