EXERCISE 3
December 30, 2024 By: Alicia Mujuru
Media Item 1: Urbanization and Its Environmental Impact
The article “Urban Sprawl Threatens Biodiversity in Developing Nations” highlights how rapid urban expansion into rural and undeveloped areas leads to the destruction of ecosystems, endangering native wildlife and reducing the availability of farmland. It emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable urban planning to mitigate these impacts, particularly in rapidly developing regions like Africa and Asia.
This article resonates with the themes of Unit 3, particularly the historical consequences of urbanization during the Industrial Revolution. At that time, cities expanded rapidly due to industrial and population growth, often without regard for environmental consequences. Forests and wetlands were cleared for factories, roads, and housing, leading to significant habitat loss and pollution. Similarly, the current trend of urban sprawl in developing nations reflects the same unchecked expansion but on a global scale. The article challenges us to consider how lessons from the past, such as the consequences of prioritizing growth over ecological balance, can inform modern urban planning efforts. Unit 3 also discussed the role of zoning laws and greenbelt initiatives in curbing urban sprawl in developed nations, serving as models that could be adapted to mitigate biodiversity loss in developing regions.
Link to the article: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/urban-sprawl-threatens-biodiversity
Media Item 2: Parks and Conservation in the 21st Century
In the National Geographic report “The Role of Urban Parks in Climate Change Mitigation,” the focus is on the evolving role of urban parks. The article illustrates how these green spaces absorb carbon emissions, reduce urban heat islands, and provide psychological relief for city dwellers. The report calls for urban planners to prioritize green spaces in cities to address climate challenges and enhance residents’ quality of life.
This article builds on Unit 3’s exploration of the historical origins of parks, such as the establishment of Central Park in New York City or Hyde Park in London. These spaces were initially designed as areas for leisure and aesthetic beauty, offering urban populations a respite from the chaos of industrial cities. Over time, parks gained a conservationist function, serving as havens for urban biodiversity and tools for environmental education. The article expands on this legacy by showing how parks today play a crucial role in combating climate change. For instance, urban parks act as carbon sinks, cooling urban temperatures and reducing the energy consumption needed for air conditioning. This connection challenges us to think about how these historic institutions must evolve to meet modern environmental crises while continuing to serve as cultural and recreational assets. Furthermore, it aligns with Unit 3’s discussion on how public policies, like those creating urban green spaces, can be vital in promoting long-term environmental sustainability.
Link to the article: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/urban-parks-climate-change