Urbanització

Urbanització is a term used in Catalan to describe the process by which a locality becomes more urbanized, characterized by population growth, economic activity, and the development of infrastructure and services. It also refers to a specific type of real estate development—a housing estate or subdivision—planned with streets, utilities, and public spaces to accommodate residential use.

Historically, urbanització has accompanied industrialization and modernization, concentrating people and activities in cities and their peripheries. Globally, urbanization proceeds at varying speeds; some regions experience rapid densification, while others experience slower growth or more pronounced suburban expansion.

Key elements of urbanització include land-use planning, zoning, and the provision of water, sewage, energy, waste management, and transportation. Planning aims to integrate housing, work, and services within a connected network, often emphasizing sustainability, resilience, and compatibility with surrounding environments.

Impacts of urbanització are mixed. They can provide improved access to jobs, education, and healthcare, but also pose risks such as spatial segregation, environmental pressures, traffic congestion, and rising housing costs. Effective management requires governance, infrastructure investment, and inclusive policies that address social equity and environmental quality.

Policy approaches focus on sustainable urban development, including compact growth, transit-oriented development, mixed-use neighborhoods, and redevelopment of underused urban areas. Metrics often track urban population share, density, and access to services, while international frameworks such as UN-Habitat advocate for inclusive, safe, and resilient cities.