Most major cities in core countries are postindustrial. Can you think of an example of a growing city that is still in its industrial phase? How is it different from most Canadian cities?
http://www.citymetric.com/business/factory-towns-which-british-cities-still-have-big-manufacturing-industries-1540
http://www.forbes.com/sites/joelkotkin/2014/06/19/americas-new-industrial-boomtowns/#1ef42ae03720
To find an example of a growing city that is still in its industrial phase, we can focus on emerging economies or countries where industrialization is still ongoing. One such example is Shenzhen, China.
To understand how Shenzhen differs from most Canadian cities, it's essential to highlight a few points:
1. Industrial Development: Shenzhen experienced rapid industrial growth since it was established in 1980 as China's first Special Economic Zone. The city transformed from a small fishing village to a major industrial hub, specializing in electronics manufacturing, technology, and telecommunications. This industrial development is still continuing today.
2. Economic Importance: Shenzhen's industrial sector contributes significantly to China's overall economic growth. The city is home to numerous manufacturing and assembly plants of multinational corporations, attracting both domestic and foreign investment. It has become a vital part of China's export-oriented economic model, whereas most Canadian cities have transitioned to service-based economies.
3. Urban Landscape: Shenzhen's industrial focus has shaped its urban landscape, with numerous manufacturing facilities and industrial zones scattered throughout the city. These areas are characterized by factories and industrial infrastructure rather than office buildings or commercial centers that dominate Canadian cities.
4. Population Growth: Due to its industrial development, Shenzhen has experienced a remarkable increase in population size over the years. The city's attractive job opportunities and economic prospects have drawn people from various regions of China and contributed to its growth. In contrast, larger Canadian cities, such as Toronto or Vancouver, have diverse economies and attract people for a variety of reasons beyond industrial opportunities.
It's important to note that industrialization brings both advantages and challenges to a city. While it can stimulate economic growth and employment, it also poses environmental and social concerns that need to be addressed.