This book examines the rapid expansion of urban areas worldwide, especially within the previous 50 years, identifying the factors that have contributed to this phenomenon and exploring its many consequences. Global Urban Growth: A Reference Handbook examines urbanization and the challenges associated with rapid urban growth and urban sprawl from a truly global perspective, rather than presenting only a limited exploration of the subject by addressing a single city, country, or region. Investigating urbanization and related policy challenges as both a general phenomenon of all modern societies and one that varies greatly in different regions of the world, the book charts different growth trajectories in these societies and varying policy responses. Significant variations in culture, historical background, economic factors, and political and social development are considered. A chapter on the United States and Canada documents how urbanization trends have occurred in North America and presents our policy approaches in comparison and contrast with the rest of the world. The author offers a balanced overview by marshaling the facts and clearly presenting both the benefits and the drawbacks for readers. * A pie chart illustrating recent land use in the United States * A bibliography containing reviews of over 40 recommended books and journals that provide insights into global urban growth trends * A full list of topical subjects for easy reference

Book Information
ISBN 9781598844412
Author Donald C. Williams
Format Hardback
Page Count 311
Imprint ABC-CLIO
Publisher ABC-CLIO