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The rapid growth of cities in the developing world has led to social and economic problems - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 30 - 2006
Question 30
The rapid growth of cities in the developing world has led to social and economic problems. Examine any two such problems, referring to examples you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The rapid growth of cities in the developing world has led to social and economic problems - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 30 - 2006
Step 1
Identify Problem 1: Urban Poverty
Answer
Urban poverty is a significant social problem resulting from rapid urbanization in developing cities. As more people migrate to urban areas in search of better opportunities, they often face economic hardships. For example, in cities like Dhaka, Bangladesh, many residents live in slums where access to basic services like clean water and sanitation is severely lacking. The rapid influx of people overwhelms the city's infrastructure, leading to overcrowded living conditions and a lack of employment opportunities.
Step 2
Identify Problem 2: Environmental Degradation
Answer
Another critical problem associated with urban growth is environmental degradation. Rapid industrialization and urban expansion lead to increased pollution and depletion of natural resources. For instance, in Mexico City, air pollution has reached alarming levels due to vehicle emissions and industrial discharge. This not only affects the health of the residents but also leads to long-term environmental impacts, such as loss of biodiversity and damage to ecosystems.
Step 3
Discussion of Examples
Answer
Both urban poverty and environmental degradation are interlinked issues in developing cities. Urban poverty exacerbates environmental problems as low-income communities often lack the resources to mitigate pollution or improve their living conditions. Moreover, as cities like Dhaka and Mexico City continue to expand unchecked, the potential for sustainable growth diminishes. Addressing these social and economic challenges requires comprehensive urban planning, which includes improving public services, investing in green technologies, and engaging communities in sustainable practices.