Question 1: Define 'sustainable development' in the context of urban areas.

Answer: Sustainable development in urban areas refers to managing resources and growth in ways that meet present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet theirs.

Question 2: What is 'green infrastructure'?

Answer: Green infrastructure involves natural and semi-natural systems, such as parks, green roofs, and urban forests, designed to deliver environmental benefits.

Question 3: Explain the term 'urban heat island effect'.

Answer: The urban heat island effect occurs when urban areas become significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to human activities, dense buildings, and reduced vegetation.

Question 4: Identify two strategies used to promote sustainable transport in cities.

Answer: Examples include promoting cycling infrastructure and expanding public transportation networks.

Question 5: Name a major city that has implemented urban sustainability initiatives and briefly describe one.

Answer: London; one initiative is the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to reduce vehicle emissions.

Question 1: What is the primary goal of urban sustainability?

Answer: To develop cities that meet current needs without compromising future generations

Question 2: Name two environmental problems commonly associated with urban areas.

Answer: Air pollution and urban heat island effect

Question 3: Which of the following is an example of green infrastructure?

Answer: Green roofs

Question 4: Describe one challenge cities face in becoming more sustainable.

Answer: One challenge is balancing economic growth with environmental conservation, such as reducing pollution while supporting urban expansion.

Question 5: Identify one city that has adopted sustainable urban transport policies and describe their approach.

Answer: Singapore; they promote extensive public transport, cycling, and walking to reduce car dependency.

Question 1: Based on the case study, describe one measure London has taken to improve urban sustainability.

Answer: London has implemented the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality.

Question 2: Identify one challenge Mumbai faces in achieving urban sustainability and explain why.

Answer: Mumbai faces challenges due to rapid population growth leading to inadequate waste management and pollution control.

Question 3: Evaluate the effectiveness of Mumbai's slum upgrading programs in promoting sustainability.

Answer: Slum upgrading programs in Mumbai have improved living conditions and access to services, but challenges remain in ensuring long-term sustainability and equitable development. These initiatives contribute positively but require consistent investment and community involvement to be fully effective.

Question 4: Compare the approaches taken by London and Mumbai to reduce urban air pollution.

Answer: London uses measures like the ULEZ to restrict high-emission vehicles, along with promoting public transport. Mumbai focuses on regulating vehicle emissions, improving waste management, and expanding green spaces. While London’s policies are more regulatory, Mumbai faces infrastructural challenges but also emphasizes community participation.

Question 1: Explain why urban heat islands form in large cities like London and Mumbai.

Answer: Urban heat islands form due to dense building materials like concrete and asphalt absorbing and retaining heat, reduced vegetation, and human activities such as transportation and industry, which generate heat.

Question 2: Analyse the main causes of air pollution in urban areas and their impacts on health and environment.

Answer: Air pollution in cities is mainly caused by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust. Its impacts include respiratory illnesses, environmental degradation, and contribution to climate change. Strategies to reduce pollution include stricter emission standards and promoting cleaner transportation.

Question 3: Describe how green infrastructure can help mitigate urban heat island effects.

Answer: Green infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs, and urban trees, provides shade, evapotranspiration, and cooling effects, which help reduce temperatures in urban areas.

Question 1: To what extent are urban sustainability initiatives in London and Mumbai effective in addressing environmental challenges? Consider economic, social, and environmental factors in your answer.

Answer: Urban sustainability initiatives in London, such as the ULEZ and green infrastructure projects, have shown significant success in reducing pollution and improving urban environments, supported by strong policy frameworks and public engagement. Mumbai's efforts, like slum upgrading and promoting green spaces, face infrastructural and socio-economic challenges but are essential for long-term resilience. Overall, while London’s strategies are more advanced and impactful, Mumbai’s initiatives are crucial but need greater support and implementation to achieve comparable success. Both cities demonstrate that multi-faceted approaches are necessary for effective urban sustainability, balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social equity.