Percentage of land area by degree of urbanization 2017
Explore the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, highlighting how urban development shapes countries' landscapes and influences economic growth. Understanding this statistic reveals the balance between urban and rural spaces, essential for sustainable planning.
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Complete Data Rankings
↑Top 10 Countries
- #1
Holy See - #2
Monaco - #3
Gibraltar - #4
Bermuda - #5
Bangladesh - #6
Sint Maarten (Dutch part) - #7
Nauru - #8
Rwanda - #9
Jersey - #10
Singapore
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
↓Bottom 10 Countries
- #237
Wallis and Futuna Islands - #236
Tokelau - #235
Saint Pierre and Miquelon - #234
Anguilla - #233
Saint Helena - #232
Niue - #231
Montserrat - #230
Falkland Islands (Malvinas) - #229
Greenland - #228
Mongolia
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
The "Percentage of Land Area by Degree of Urbanization" is a critical statistic that highlights the extent of urban development across different nations, shedding light on how urban landscapes shape national economies and influence sustainable planning. This metric, measured in percentage, offers a glimpse into the delicate balance maintained between urban and rural spaces, crucial for strategic development and environmental sustainability. The data from 2017 provides a snapshot of global trends in urbanization, illustrating diverse patterns in land use transformation worldwide.
Global Urbanization Trends in 2017
In 2017, urbanization experienced varied degrees across the globe, with 200 countries contributing to the dataset. The average percentage of land area classified as urban stood at 10.89%, showcasing a broad disparity in urban land distribution. Notably, the minimum value recorded was a mere 0.44%, while some regions, like the Holy See and Monaco, reached a peak urbanization level of 100%. Such extremes highlight the complex dynamics and differing priorities in land development among nations.
Economic Influence and Urbanization Patterns
Urbanization is a powerful driver of economic growth, with urban areas often serving as the epicenters of economic activities and innovations. For instance, countries with higher urban land percentages like Singapore (46.167%) and Bangladesh (64.996%) demonstrate how concentrated urban development can align with economic dynamism. Conversely, nations like Saudi Arabia, with a minuscule urban land percentage of 0.439%, reflect a different economic structure, often reliant on resources other than urban industries. Such contrasts underline the significance of urban planning in economic strategy, highlighting the role urban spaces play in facilitating industry and commerce.
Regional Variation in Urban Land Use
Analyzing regional patterns reveals fascinating insights into how geography and policy shape urbanization. European microstates like Gibraltar (82%) and Jersey (48.177%) show extensive urban land coverage due to their historical and geographical constraints. Meanwhile, developing nations such as Rwanda (51.641%) are accelerating urban growth, reflecting broader trends of urban migration and industrialization in Africa. On the other hand, nations like Vanuatu (0.474%) and Zambia (0.463%) illustrate minimal urban land, often due to expansive rural landscapes and different developmental priorities.
Year-over-Year Changes in Urbanization
From 2016 to 2017, the urban land area percentage witnessed subtle changes, with an average increase of 0.09%. Among the most significant growths was Burundi, which saw a 2.12% rise, marking a 5.5% year-on-year increase, indicative of rapid urban expansion. Similarly, urban growth in Rwanda and Sint Maarten (Dutch part) signifies a trend towards increased urbanization in specific regions. Conversely, China, Macao SAR experienced a 1.43% decline, demonstrating the complex nature of urban policy and land management facing some territories.
Sustainable Urban Development and Planning
The data from 2017 emphasizes the importance of sustainable urban development. As urban areas expand, countries must strive to balance development with environmental conservation. Nations with high urban land percentages face challenges in managing resources efficiently and maintaining quality of life. For countries like Bangladesh and Singapore, continued urban expansion necessitates innovative solutions in housing, transportation, and green spaces to ensure sustainability. Understanding these dynamics is vital for policymakers and planners aiming to create resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments that support economic vitality and social equity.
In summary, the "Percentage of Land Area by Degree of Urbanization" in 2017 offers valuable insights into global urbanization patterns. By examining economic impacts, regional variations, and sustainable development issues, stakeholders can better understand and address the complexities of urban growth. This understanding is crucial to fostering balanced development that meets contemporary needs while preserving the environment for future generations.
Insights by country
Bahrain
Bahrain ranks 19th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization in the year 2017. The country has an urbanization rate of 34.628%, indicating a significant portion of its land is developed for urban use.
This high degree of urbanization can be attributed to several factors, including Bahrain's small land area, rapid economic development, and the influx of expatriates, which have driven the demand for housing and infrastructure. As a result, urban areas have expanded to accommodate the growing population and support economic activities.
Interestingly, Bahrain's urbanization is reflective of broader trends in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where urban growth is often fueled by oil revenues and the associated development of cities. This trend poses challenges related to sustainability and resource management in the densely populated regions.
Chile
In 2017, Chile ranked 192 out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with a value of 0.558%. This statistic reflects the proportion of the country's total land area that is classified as urban, highlighting the extent of urban development in relation to its overall geography.
The relatively low percentage of urbanized land in Chile can be attributed to its diverse geographic landscape, which includes vast areas of mountainous terrain and desert regions that limit urban expansion. Additionally, a significant portion of the population resides in concentrated urban centers, such as Santiago, which further influences the distribution of urbanized land.
Interestingly, while Chile has experienced rapid urbanization in recent decades, challenges remain in balancing urban growth with environmental sustainability and infrastructure development. The country's urbanization process is also influenced by economic factors, migration trends, and government policies aimed at urban planning and development.
Honduras
Honduras ranks 147th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with an urbanized land area of only 1.746% in the year 2017. This low percentage reflects the country's ongoing challenges in urban development and infrastructure.
The limited urbanization can be attributed to various factors, including a predominantly rural population, economic constraints, and the historical reliance on agriculture. Many Hondurans continue to live in rural areas due to the lack of job opportunities and resources in urban centers, which hampers the growth of urbanization.
Additionally, Honduras faces issues such as high levels of poverty and lack of investment in urban infrastructure, which further inhibit the development of cities. It is noteworthy that the urbanization trend in Central America generally lags behind that of other regions, with countries often struggling to provide adequate services and housing for their populations.
Germany
In 2017, Germany ranked 60th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with an urbanized land area of 9.669%. This statistic reflects the proportion of Germany's territory that is classified as urban, showcasing the extent of urban development and settlement patterns across the nation.
Germany's relatively low percentage of urbanized land area can be attributed to its significant rural regions, particularly in areas such as Bavaria and Saxony, where extensive agricultural land and natural landscapes prevail. Additionally, Germany has a strong emphasis on maintaining green spaces and sustainable urban planning, which may limit the expansion of urbanized areas.
Interestingly, despite its low urbanization percentage, Germany is home to some of Europe's largest cities, including Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich, which contribute to the urbanization dynamics within the country. The balance between urbanization and rural preservation is a crucial aspect of Germany's environmental and social policies, reflecting the nation's commitment to sustainable development.
Haiti
In 2017, Haiti ranked 31st out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with an urbanization percentage of 20.191%. This indicates that a significant portion of the country's land remains rural, highlighting the ongoing challenges in urban development and infrastructure.
The low degree of urbanization in Haiti can be attributed to various factors, including economic instability, limited industrialization, and a lack of urban planning. Many Haitians reside in rural areas where agriculture remains a primary source of livelihood, despite the country's struggles with natural disasters and economic hardship.
Additionally, urbanization in Haiti is affected by migration patterns and the concentration of resources in urban centers such as Port-au-Prince. As urban migration continues, there is a pressing need for sustainable development strategies to manage urban growth and improve living conditions in both urban and rural areas.
Liechtenstein
In 2017, Liechtenstein ranked 32nd out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area classified by degree of urbanization, with 20% of its land area being urban. This statistic highlights the relatively low level of urbanization in the country, which is characterized by its mountainous terrain and small population.
The urbanization rate in Liechtenstein is influenced by various factors, including its geographic size of approximately 160 square kilometers and a population of around 38,000 residents. The capital, Vaduz, serves as the primary urban center, while the majority of the land remains rural and dedicated to agriculture and natural landscapes.
Additionally, the country's commitment to preserving its natural environment and cultural heritage contributes to its limited urban expansion. Despite its small urban footprint, Liechtenstein enjoys a high standard of living, with a strong economy driven by finance, manufacturing, and tourism.
San Marino
In 2017, San Marino ranked 20th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area classified by degree of urbanization, with an impressive 32.895% of its land area designated as urban. This statistic reflects the country's unique geographic and demographic characteristics, including its small size and the concentration of its population within urban centers.
The relatively high degree of urbanization in San Marino can be attributed to its historical development as a city-state, which has led to a compact urban environment where most of the population resides in the capital, San Marino City. Additionally, factors such as economic activities, infrastructure development, and historical preservation efforts contribute to the urban landscape.
As a microstate, San Marino's urbanization is also influenced by its proximity to larger urban areas in Italy, facilitating economic interactions and cultural exchanges. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that many countries with similar land area sizes often exhibit variations in urbanization levels, highlighting San Marino's distinct urban character.
Grenada
In 2017, Grenada ranked 26th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with an urbanized land area of 23.725%. This figure indicates that a significant portion of Grenada's land is utilized for urban development, reflecting the country's efforts towards modernization and urban planning.
The relatively low percentage of urbanized land in Grenada can be attributed to its geographic and economic factors. As a small island nation in the Caribbean, Grenada has limited land area, and much of its landscape is dominated by natural features such as mountains and forests, which restrict urban expansion. Additionally, the economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and tourism, which may influence the distribution of land use.
It is noteworthy that as urbanization continues, Grenada faces challenges related to infrastructure, housing, and environmental sustainability, which are common in developing nations. The urbanization rate, alongside ongoing development projects, is crucial for the country’s growth and adaptation to the demands of a changing economy.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan ranks 209th out of 237 countries in terms of the percentage of land area that is urbanized, with only 0.244% of its land classified as urban. This statistic indicates a predominantly rural landscape, where vast expanses of land remain dedicated to agriculture, natural resources, and undeveloped terrain.
The low degree of urbanization can be attributed to several factors, including the country's vast geographical size, which is the ninth largest in the world, and a population that is relatively sparse, concentrated mainly in urban centers such as Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Additionally, Kazakhstan's economic activities are largely centered around industries such as mining and agriculture, which require large tracts of land that do not contribute to urbanization.
Interestingly, despite its low urban land percentage, Kazakhstan has experienced significant urban growth in recent years, driven by economic development and migration trends. As a result, there is an ongoing shift in the demographic landscape, with urban areas expanding and rural populations gradually declining.
Lesotho
In 2017, Lesotho ranked 130th out of 237 countries regarding the percentage of land area by degree of urbanization, with only 2.214% of its land classified as urban. This statistic reflects the country's limited urban development, which is influenced by its rugged mountainous terrain and a predominantly rural population engaged in subsistence farming.
The low degree of urbanization can be attributed to several factors, including economic challenges, high unemployment rates, and limited infrastructure in urban areas. Furthermore, Lesotho's political and social conditions have historically hindered significant urban growth, leading to a reliance on remittances from citizens working abroad, particularly in South Africa.
Interestingly, while the urbanization rate is low, Lesotho has a relatively high population density in urban areas compared to its overall land area, which indicates that urban spaces may be under pressure despite their small size. This juxtaposition highlights the complexities of urban development in a country facing both geographic and economic obstacles.
Data Source
United Nations Population Division
The Population Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs conducts demographic research, supports intergovernmental processes at the United Nations in the area of population and development, and assists countries in developing their capacity to produce and analyse population data and information. The Division brings population issues to the attention of the international community by highlighting the central role of demographic trends in all aspects of sustainable development. The Division publishes datasets on the world’s population and analyzes global demographic trends.
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