1.7 Urbanisation: Explain causes and consequences of urbanisation.
Causes of Urbanisation
Urbanisation is the increasing proportion of a population living in urban areas. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:
Industrial Revolution: The growth of factories in urban areas created a large demand for labour, attracting people from rural areas seeking employment.
Economic Opportunities: Cities offer a wider range of job opportunities, higher wages, and potential for career advancement compared to rural areas.
Improved Services: Urban areas typically have better access to services such as healthcare, education, shopping, and entertainment.
Rural Depopulation: Lack of opportunities and declining agricultural productivity in rural areas push people to seek a better life in cities.
Pull Factor: The perceived advantages and opportunities of urban life act as a "pull factor," attracting people to cities.
Push Factor: Negative conditions in rural areas, such as poverty, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to services, act as "push factors," driving people away.
Consequences of Urbanisation
Urbanisation has significant and wide-ranging consequences, both positive and negative:
Positive Consequences
Economic Growth: Cities are centres of economic activity, driving innovation, trade, and wealth creation.
Job Creation: Urban areas offer a diverse range of employment opportunities across various sectors.
Specialisation: Cities allow for the specialization of labour and the development of skilled industries.
Cultural Diversity: Cities often attract people from different backgrounds, leading to a more diverse and vibrant culture.
Innovation and Technology: Urban areas are hubs for technological advancements and innovation.
Improved Infrastructure: Urban areas often benefit from better infrastructure, including transportation, communication, and utilities.
Negative Consequences
Overcrowding: Rapid population growth can lead to overcrowding in housing and public spaces.
Pollution: Increased industrial activity and vehicle traffic contribute to air, water, and noise pollution.
Strain on Resources: Urban areas place a significant strain on resources such as water, energy, and land.
Housing Problems: Shortage of affordable housing and the development of slums can be major issues.
Crime and Social Problems: High population density can sometimes lead to increased crime rates and social problems.
Traffic Congestion: Increased vehicle ownership leads to traffic congestion and delays.
Environmental Degradation: Urban sprawl can lead to the destruction of natural habitats and loss of biodiversity.
Table Summarising Causes and Consequences
Cause of Urbanisation
Consequence of Urbanisation
Industrial Revolution
Economic Growth
Economic Opportunities
Job Creation
Improved Services
Specialisation
Rural Depopulation
Cultural Diversity
Pull Factor
Innovation and Technology
Push Factor
Improved Infrastructure
Overcrowding
Pollution
Strain on Resources
Housing Problems
Crime and Social Problems
Traffic Congestion
Environmental Degradation
Environmental Degradation
Figure: Suggested diagram: A diagram illustrating the push and pull factors of urbanisation, showing arrows indicating movement from rural to urban areas, labelled with examples of push and pull factors.
Suggested diagram: A diagram illustrating the push and pull factors of urbanisation, showing arrows indicating movement from rural to urban areas, labelled with examples of push and pull factors.