The Many Benefits of Urban Living

There seems to be a negative stigma attached to the idea of living in urban environments. Arguments arise about pollution and over-crowding. But as someone who grew up in an urban environment, I can attest to the many pros of living in a big city. A lecture in my Human Growth and Development class proved that there are more benefits to Urban Living than just environmental ones.

Earlier in the semester we watched a video titled "The End of Suburbia". It highlighted the many cons of living in the suburbs and the environmental implications that exist in attempting to sustain the suburban lifestyle. Suburbs tend to be isolated from businesses and places of work. This increases the need for vehicles to get around. Obviously, that has implications on the environment. Using a vehicle as a primary means for transportation has a negative effect on the health of individuals as well because it decreases the opportunity for exercise. Though, in children, this can be countered with participation in sports and recreational activities, adults in the suburbs tend to lead a much more sedentary life-style. This may be a contributor to the obesity epidemic.

City dwellers tend to use mass transit for transportation, lowering carbon dioxide emissions. The proximity of businesses, schools and jobs means people can walk or cycle to and from their destinations. City parks provide green space for recreational activities as well as reduction of atmospheric CO2. There is more opportunity for physical activity, which may help decrease rates of obesity.

I know many people will agree will not agree with the idea that raising a family in a city/urban environment is better, but I found growing up in an urban environment to be a positive experience for me. There are parks within walking distance of most residential areas. I could go to the museum or the theatre or school without the need of a vehicle. I was exposed to a wide variety of cultures. There was always something to see or do; some new food to try or new person to talk to. I gained a certain wisdom that can't necessarily be measured, but I know has everything to do with my constant exposure to different people and situations.

Of course, cities are not perfect. There are dangers that exist there just like anywhere else, but I think the benefits outweigh the costs.