Discuss alternative designs for development that take into account protection of environmentally sensitive areas, public transportation, walkable, mixed use neighborhoods, etc. The term “smart growth” is often used to describe this method of planning. Do you have examples of green communities in Los Angeles? What do you think are the biggest health benefits from these compared to traditional development?
What factors lie behind the shift of population from rural areas to urban areas? What types of cities and countries are experiencing the fastest urban growth today, and why?
Why have so many city dwellers in the United States, Canada, and other nations moved into suburbs?
How are some people trying to prevent or slow sprawl? Describe some key elements of “smart growth.” What effects, positive and negative, do urban growth boundaries tend to have?