Final answer:
Urbanization in Canada has occurred due to the transition from an agricultural to an industrial and service-based economy, technological advances in agriculture, and the attraction of opportunities in urban centers. Rural areas experience population decline, while urban areas face challenges such as overloaded infrastructure and increased demand for services.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of urbanization in Canada has largely been driven by factors such as the Industrial Revolution, increased engagement in industrial and service-based economies, and the pursuit of better living standards in urban centers. Due to advancements in agricultural technology, fewer people are needed to work in rural farms, leading to a decrease in rural populations as individuals migrate to cities for employment and other opportunities. This rural-to-urban shift has profound effects on rural areas: it alters the economic structures, reduces the population base, and places pressure on urban areas for infrastructure and services.
The significant growth of urban areas in Canada can be attributed to the agglomeration effect—wherein economic activities are centered in cities, providing numerous opportunities for work and education that are not always available in rural settings. Consequently, there has been a major movement of population from rural to urban settings, a trend that is observed not just in Canada but also worldwide. As economies develop, a larger proportion of the population tends to live in urban areas due to the concentration of industries and services.
This urbanization and expansion of industrial cities have led to various challenges, both for individuals and policymakers. The decline in the rural population can lead to underused infrastructure and services, and a lack of economic diversity in smaller towns. Urban areas, meanwhile, may experience overloaded infrastructure, environmental pollution, and heightened demand for housing and social services. The balance between supporting rural communities and managing urban growth remains a delicate issue for Canadian society.