Cities growing up

Recent research published in the journal Nature Cities reveals that cities globally are increasingly growing upward rather than outward, driven by the construction of taller buildings. A team from the University of New Hampshire analyzed satellite data from the 1990s to the 2010s across over 1,550 cities, finding that the percentage of land occupied by tall buildings in populous cities has risen significantly. This trend is particularly pronounced in Asian cities and is expected to reshape urban planning and resource management as more people move to urban areas. While vertical growth offers sustainability benefits by reducing the need for extensive infrastructure, it also raises concerns about gentrification and equity, as higher-density developments can displace marginalized communities. Experts emphasize that the shift towards upward development reflects broader economic trends and poses both challenges and opportunities for urban life. The study highlights the importance of adapting city planning strategies to accommodate this new growth pattern.