What trends are evident in contemporary urbanization?

Contemporary urbanisation trends include rapid urban growth, increased urban sprawl, and the rise of megacities.

Urbanisation, the process by which rural areas become urbanised, is occurring at an unprecedented rate in the 21st century. This rapid urban growth is particularly evident in developing countries, where cities are expanding both in terms of population and physical size. This is largely due to rural-urban migration, as people move to cities in search of better economic opportunities. However, this rapid urbanisation often outpaces the ability of cities to provide necessary infrastructure and services, leading to the proliferation of informal settlements or slums.

Another significant trend is the increase in urban sprawl, which refers to the spread of urban areas into surrounding rural land. This is particularly evident in developed countries, where cities are expanding outwards rather than upwards. Urban sprawl is often associated with car-dependent societies and can lead to a range of environmental problems, including loss of agricultural land, increased energy consumption, and higher levels of air pollution.

The rise of megacities, defined as cities with a population of over 10 million people, is another key trend in contemporary urbanisation. While megacities were once a rarity, there are now over 30 worldwide, and this number is expected to continue to rise. Megacities are often global hubs of economic activity, but they also face significant challenges, including congestion, pollution, and social inequality.

In addition, there is a growing trend towards the development of smart cities, which use technology to improve urban services and quality of life. This includes everything from smart grids and intelligent transport systems to e-governance and digital inclusion initiatives. However, the development of smart cities also raises issues around data privacy and digital divide.

Finally, there is an increasing recognition of the need for sustainable urban development. This involves planning and designing cities in a way that minimises their environmental impact, promotes social equity, and ensures economic viability. This is reflected in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 11, which aims to "make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable".