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Global Cities Shift from Sprawling Outward to Building Upward

New satellite study reveals a significant trend towards vertical urban growth, especially in Asia, impacting sustainability and equity.

  • Researchers analyzed satellite data from over 1,500 cities worldwide from the 1990s to the 2010s.
  • The study found that cities with populations over 10 million are leading this vertical growth trend.
  • Vertical development promotes sustainability but raises concerns about gentrification and social equity.
  • The trend is most pronounced in Asian cities, while European cities continue to expand outward.
  • Urban planning must adapt to these changes to address resource allocation, climate impact, and infrastructure needs.
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