This study examines global urban building growth rates over the past three decades using data from space-borne sensors. The findings reveal a significant shift from lateral urban expansion to more vertical development. While building fractional cover increased, growth rates decreased in most regions and large cities. Conversely, growth rates in microwave backscatter (correlating with building volume) increased in almost all regions and cities. This transition, occurring at varying rates and times across the globe, has substantial consequences for material and energy use, local climate, and urban living. Asian cities experienced the most significant growth rate increases.
Publisher
Nature Cities
Published On
Aug 05, 2024
Authors
Steve Frolking, Richa Mahtta, Tom Milliman, Thomas Esch, Karen C. Seto
Tags
urban growth
building development
vertical expansion
microwave backscatter
climate impact
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