IMPACT OF URBANIZATION ON SOCIAL LIFE AND ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

Urbanization is a social phenomenon that continues to develop alongside modernization and regional development, particularly in developing countries such as Indonesia. The movement of populations from rural to urban areas generates various impacts on demographic structures, social relations, and urban environmental conditions. In practice, urbanization is often accompanied by social problems, including the weakening of social cohesion, changes in family structures, and increasing social inequality. Rapid urban growth also triggers environmental challenges such as pollution, land-use conversion, overcrowding, and declining quality of urban living spaces. This study employs a qualitative approach through a literature review of scientific journals, academic books, and relevant previous research. The analysis focuses on examining the relationship between urban growth, social transformation, and environmental sustainability. The findings indicate that urbanization should not be understood merely as population movement, but as a multidimensional phenomenon that requires integrated planning, social awareness, and environmental responsibility to improve urban quality of life.