462-2/24 Urbanization and energy consumption, draft
462/24 - Global warming and Energy Transition. draft
Global Warming and
Urbanization: A Vicious Cycle
Urbanization, the rapid growth of cities, is a
significant contributor to global warming. As cities expand, land is cleared
for infrastructure, leading to deforestation. Additionally, increased energy
consumption for transportation, heating, and cooling in urban areas contributes
to greenhouse gas emissions.
The consequences of global warming on urbanization are
far-reaching. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, floods, and
hurricanes, can devastate urban areas, resulting in economic losses and human
suffering. Moreover, the increased demand for resources, such as water and
energy, in growing cities can strain local ecosystems and exacerbate
climate-related challenges.
The movie "Interstellar" offers a glimpse
into the potential consequences of global warming and urbanization. While not
explicitly about these topics, the film depicts a future Earth ravaged by
environmental degradation and resource scarcity, likely resulting from
unchecked urbanization and climate change. The film highlights the
interconnectedness of these issues and the potential for consequences if not addressed.
To mitigate the impacts of global warming and
urbanization, individuals and institutions must take action. Individuals can
reduce their carbon footprint by adopting sustainable transportation,
conserving energy, and reducing consumption. Cities can invest in green
infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs, and bike lanes, to improve air
quality and reduce heat island effects. Governments can implement policies that
promote sustainable urban development, including zoning regulations, public
transportation systems, and renewable energy initiatives. By working together,
individuals, cities, and governments can create more sustainable and resilient
urban environments.
1) What has
been the relationship between Urbanization and Global Warming?
__________________________________________
1.1) Why has urbanization
contributed to global warming?
Immediate
___________________________________
Underlying
____________________________________
Structural
_____________________________________
.2.1) Which could be consequences of GW for
Urbanization?
Past
_______________________________________
Present
___________________________________
Future - Short time
_________________________
Future - Long time future
_____________________
3) Which
cultural product does represent some causes and consequences of global warming for
Urbanization?
___________________________________________
4) Which institutions should help to tackle
global warming in relation to industrialization?
4.1 What these
institutions should do?
4.2 How should
these institutions do that?
____________________________________________
5) – Based on
the previous answers, the text and what was discussed in class, create a mind
map on the topic of Global Warming, urbanization
and sustainable cities.
Global Warming and Urbanization
Introduction
·
Increased energy consumption:
o
vast amounts of energy for
§ transportation, heating, cooling, and industrial activities.
·
Waste generation:
o
significant amounts of waste
o
inefficient disposal practices
§ contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
·
Deforestation:
o
Urban expansion
o
clearing forests
§ reducing absorption of carbon dioxide.
Development 1: Consequences of Global
Warming for Urbanization
·
Extreme
weather events: Rising temperatures
can lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves, floods, and storms, posing
significant risks to urban infrastructure and populations.
·
Sea-level
rise: Coastal cities are particularly vulnerable
to sea-level rise, which can result in flooding, erosion, and displacement of
communities.
·
Heat
island effect: Urban areas tend to
be hotter than surrounding rural areas due to the concentration of buildings,
concrete, and asphalt, exacerbating heat-related health risks.
Development 2: Movie/Series Representation
·
The Day
After Tomorrow (2004): This
film depicts a sudden global climate shift that leads to extreme weather
events, including a massive ice storm that engulfs New York City. It highlights
the vulnerability of urban areas to rapid climate change.
Conclusion: Intervention Proposals
·
Individual
interventions: Reduce energy
consumption by using public transportation, conserving water, and minimizing
waste. Support sustainable urban planning and development.
·
Institutional
interventions: Invest in renewable
energy sources, improve waste management systems, and implement green building
standards. Promote sustainable transportation options and urban green spaces.
