Chapter 13 Discusses Alternative Designs For Development ✓ Solved

Chapter 13 Discusses Alternative Designs For Development Tha

Chapter 13 discusses alternative designs for development that take into account protection of environmentally sensitive areas, public transportation, walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods, etc. The term "smart growth" is often used to describe this method of planning. Do you have examples of green communities in Los Angeles? What do you think are the biggest health benefits from these compared to traditional development?

What factors lie behind the shift of population from rural areas to urban areas? What types of cities and countries are experiencing the fastest urban growth today, and why?

Why have so many city dwellers in the United States, Canada, and other nations moved into suburbs?

How are some people trying to prevent or slow sprawl? Describe some key elements of “smart growth.” What effects, positive and negative, do urban growth boundaries tend to have?

What is one way natural ecosystems can perform wastewater treatment? Explain the process and your thoughts on using such natural or created systems in wastewater treatment.

Compare and contrast the main types of freshwater ecosystems. Name and describe the major zones of a typical pond or lake.

Name three major types of water pollutants, and provide an example of each. Explain which classes of water pollutants you think are most important in your local area.

Define groundwater. Why do many scientists consider groundwater pollution a greater problem than surface water pollution?

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The concept of "smart growth" has evolved as a response to traditional urban development patterns, which often lead to the degradation of the environment and a decline in the quality of urban life. This approach emphasizes sustainable development practices that prioritize environmentally sensitive areas, public transportation, and mixed-use neighborhoods. One notable example of green communities in Los Angeles is the city of Santa Monica, which has implemented various initiatives aimed at creating a more sustainable urban environment. These include extensive bike lanes, green spaces, and a commitment to renewable energy, which contribute significantly to the health and well-being of its residents.

The health benefits of smart growth compared to traditional development are numerous. These include improved air quality due to reduced vehicle emissions, enhanced physical health as a result of increased accessibility to walking and biking paths, and greater social connectivity that fosters community engagement. Research indicates that people living in walkable neighborhoods tend to have lower rates of obesity and related diseases (Ewing & Cervero, 2010). Furthermore, the reduction of urban heat islands in well-planned green communities also contributes to better health outcomes for their inhabitants (Klein et al., 2016).

The shift of population from rural areas to urban centers is primarily driven by the search for better job opportunities, education, and healthcare resources. This trend is observable in cities in developing regions, particularly in countries in Asia and Africa, where urban areas are rapidly expanding due to the migration of individuals seeking a better quality of life (United Nations, 2018). Additionally, many cities are experiencing this growth due to increased urbanization, which is often coupled with economic development and infrastructural improvements, allowing for accelerated population density in metropolitan areas.

In North America, city dwellers are increasingly moving into suburbs. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including the desire for larger living spaces, perceived safety, and better access to schools and recreational facilities. Suburban living often offers families a balance between urban amenities and a quieter lifestyle, making it an appealing option (Cheshire & Sheppard, 2004). Furthermore, suburban areas have expanded due to the advent of transportation technologies that facilitate easy commutes to urban jobs.

Efforts to prevent or slow urban sprawl can be seen in several city planning initiatives that promote smart growth. Key elements of smart growth include higher density development, mixed-use zoning, and the preservation of green spaces. These practices aim to curtail the expansion of urban boundaries, thereby mitigating the negative impacts of sprawl, such as habitat destruction and increased traffic congestion (Duany et al., 2000). Urban growth boundaries, while intended to manage development and preserve surrounding land, can lead to mixed effects. Positively, they can protect natural habitats and promote more sustainable living patterns; negatively, however, they may lead to increased housing costs and displacement of lower-income residents (Glaeser & Kahn, 2004).

In terms of environmental and ecological management, natural ecosystems can serve a crucial role in wastewater treatment processes. One effective method is the use of constructed wetlands, which utilize natural plant and soil processes to filter and break down contaminants in wastewater. This environmentally friendly approach not only purifies water but also enhances local biodiversity and provides habitats for various species (Vymazal, 2011). Implementing such systems on a larger scale could significantly reduce the reliance on traditional wastewater treatment facilities that often consume large amounts of energy and resources.

Freshwater ecosystems are primarily categorized into three types: rivers and streams, lakes and ponds, and wetlands. Each of these ecosystems has distinctive characteristics and functions. For example, the major zones of a typical lake include the littoral zone (near the shore), limnetic zone (open water), and benthic zone (bottom). Each zone supports varying types of wildlife and contributes to the ecological balance of the ecosystem (Wetzel, 2001).

When it comes to water pollutants, three major categories include pathogens (e.g., bacteria and viruses), nutrients (e.g., nitrogen and phosphorus), and heavy metals (e.g., mercury and lead). In my local area, nutrient pollution is a pressing concern, often stemming from agricultural runoff that leads to algal blooms, which can severely impact aquatic life and water quality (Carpenter et al., 1998). Addressing these pollutant sources is critical for sustainable water management.

Groundwater is defined as the water found beneath the Earth's surface in soil pore spaces and fractured rock formations. Many scientists argue that groundwater pollution presents a greater challenge than surface water pollution because it is more difficult to detect, treat, and remediate. Contaminants can persist in groundwater for extended periods and migrate across vast distances, making management and restoration efforts complex and costly (Foster & Hirata, 2014).

In conclusion, the importance of integrating sustainable practices in urban planning and addressing ecological health cannot be overstated. As urbanization continues to rise, adopting smart growth principles, understanding ecosystems' roles in wastewater treatment, and recognizing the implications of water pollution will be crucial for fostering a healthier and more resilient urban future.

References

• Carpenter, S. R., Caraco, N. F., Correll, D. L., Howarth, R. W., Sharpley, A. N., & Smith, V. H. (1998). Nonpoint pollution of surface waters with phosphorus and nitrogen. Ecological Applications, 8(3), 559-568.
• Cheshire, P., & Sheppard, S. (2004). The Introduction of Urban Economics to Geography. Urban Studies, 41(3), 1-16.
• Duany, A., Plater-Zyberk, E., & Speck, J. (2000). Suburban Nation: The Rise of Sprawl and the Decline of the American Dream. North Point Press.
• Ewing, R., & Cervero, R. (2010). Travel and the social fabric: how urban form influences travel behavior. Urban Land Institute.
• Foster, S. S. D., & Hirata, R. (2014). Groundwater Pollution – A Global Issue. Water International, 39(6), 821-849.
• Glaeser, E. L., & Kahn, M. E. (2004). Sprawl and Urban Growth. The Oxford Handbook of Urban Economics and Planning.
• Klein, S. J., Sanguinetti, A., & Rivera, M. (2016). Urban Heat Island Mitigation: An Analytical Framework for Evaluating Performance of Green Infrastructure. Environmental Research Letters, 11(11).
• United Nations. (2018). World Urbanization Prospects: The 2018 Revision. Department of Economic and Social Affairs.
• Vymazal, J. (2011). Constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment: A new direction in the past decade. Water Science and Technology, 63(9), 1-10.
• Wetzel, R. G. (2001). LIMNOLOGY: Lake and River Ecosystems. Academic Press.