👉點我看原文👈
This dialogue explores the future of cities and the challenges urban planners face as more people migrate to cities, especially in developing countries. While mega-cities continue to grow, especially in the Global South, cities in wealthier nations are looking for ways to improve the quality of life.
Urban planners face issues like housing shortages, flood management, transportation, traffic congestion, and pollution.
Cities like Copenhagen are closer to a utopia where bike lanes are everywhere. In contrast, places like Beijing struggle with smog. Today's Los Angeles has terrible urban sprawl and traffic problems.
Urban sprawl, or unplanned city expansion, is a serious issue. People moving to cities often can’t afford housing and end up building informal communities on unoccupied land. These areas, often without access to basic services, are growing rapidly.
To address such urban challenges, it is essential to improve infrastructure—including transport systems, water supply, electricity, education, and employment opportunities. Well-planned cities should also promote sustainable mobility, such as cycling and public transport, to reduce congestion and pollution.
Meanwhile, Neil introduces the idea of smart cities, where technology such as cloud computing, ubiquitous internet, and 5G networks can help manage urban systems more efficiently. This digital transformation is seen as a game changer in modern urbanization.
70% of the world’s population is expected to live in cities by 2050, according to the UN.
🍒Reading Comprehension Questions :
1.What are some common problems urban planners face when designing cities?
2. Why do people move from the countryside to cities, according to Dr. Janice Pearlman?
3. How can technology help improve city life in the future?
Vast mega-cities are emerging in the developing world as people migrate in search of work. Cities in the richer world need to find ways to improve the quality of life for their inhabitants.
They move to cities seeking better opportunities but often can’t afford housing, so they build informal settlements on unused land.
Technology can help monitor and manage resources better, improve services, reduce congestion, and make cities more efficient and livable.
Shanty towns are poor communities with makeshift houses made of cheap materials. They often lack electricity, clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and education.