The document discusses urbanization, defined as the population shift from rural areas to cities, resulting in their growth and the transition from agriculture to industrial economies. It outlines the historical context of urbanization with significant population increases over time, particularly noting that over 50% of the world's population lived in urban areas by 2007, and anticipates that this will rise to 60% by 2030. The document also highlights the environmental impacts of urbanization, such as changes in consumption patterns, heat islands, and associated health risks due to inadequate infrastructure.