Most Urbanized Countries 2024
Urbanization refers to the process of a country's population becoming more urban over time, with the percentage of people who live in cities growing more quickly than the percentage who live in rural areas. This results in a more urban society overall, which requires adaptation from both rural communities and urban dwellers. Urbanization is the primary process through which cities form and grow. The world’s population has increased rapidly from 751 million in 1950 to an estimated 7.87 billion in 2021, According to the United Nations (UN), approximately 55% of whom lived in urban areas as of 2018. This percentage is expected to grow to 68% by 2050, adding about 2.5 billion people to urban areas around the world. It is also projected that 90% of this increase will take place in Asia and Africa.
Urbanization causes unique issues for both humans and the environment, particularly if a country's population grows more quickly than its infrastructure. One of the main issues is environmental degradation. For example, emissions from factories, power plants, and motor vehicles can decrease air quality. Meanwhile, increased volumes of organic and inorganic waste can create safety and health problems. Moreover, rapid population growth can increase poverty, already a pressing issue in many nations. These challenges can be overcome, however—with effort. Job creation and economic development can overcome poverty, green policies and alternative energy systems can control pollution, and trees and green spaces can help improve air quality and preserve the environment.
