Question

A major problem confronting expanding cities is how to graft new subways and sewer systems onto existing neighborhoods. In China, authorities have tried to circumvent that by creating entire cities from scratch. As part of the government's aggressive urbanization program, it has poured large resources into building new communities, especially deep within the mainland. In fact, many of the most educated Chinese professionals on the coast have never heard of cities in their own country, some with populations the size of Houston.

Answer 1

The rapid urbanization in China, driven by the creation of SEZs and growing manufacturing sectors, has brought both development and challenges, including disparities in the standards of living and environmental impact. Chinese professionals are part of this urban migration, contributing to the dynamic changes in Chinese society.

Step-by-step explanation:

The rapid urbanization in China is a significant social and economic development that has been happening over the past few decades. As this country continues to develop, Chinese professionals are increasingly relocating to urban centers, contributing to the growth of cities. A stark example of this is the creation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which have become pivotal in attracting foreign corporations and offering employment opportunities, driving the rural-to-urban migration. Unlike historical cities that evolved over centuries, many Chinese cities are newly established and designed to accommodate the urban influx and industrial growth.

Urbanization in China is also impacting the standard of living. While coastal cities and SEZs have seen improved living standards due to manufacturing growth, there is a growing disparity with the more rural areas of the country. Moreover, the increase in manufacturing capacity and economic shifts have led to China facing challenges similar to other urbanizing nations, such as traffic congestion, housing shortages, and social inequalities.

Environmental considerations are also pushing Chinese urban development into new directions. The growing affluent population may demand better air quality and environmental conditions. With China's dedication to projects like the Belt and Road Initiative, there is hope that the country will adopt more sustainable approaches to development and resource utilization, respecting both local and global environmental concerns.