Introduction
Urbanization is one of the features of the progressive development of modern society. It is reflected in the gradual expansion of the urban population due to the numerous city buildings and the relocation of people from rural areas. However, with its positive characteristics, urbanization causes several problems, which are highlighted in various books and films. For example, a documentary titled “Losing Ground” examines issues of urban sprawl and the rapid decline of agricultural land in the United States of America. This critical urban geographic issue calls for a particular need for study, as it requires attention from the public and specific measures.
Documentary Overview: “Losing Ground” and Its Focus on Urbanization
The documentary titled “Losing Ground” was created and published in 2019. This documentary raises a critical issue not only for America but for all countries in the world. It says that in all states, farmers and ranchers are faced with sprawling urban buildings (Angus TV, 2019). In other words, more and more arable and valuable land for agriculture is being used for modern city houses and buildings. The value of this documentary is that it presents the personal encounters and experiences of real farmers and agricultural figures. Each of these personalities talks about the challenges and opportunities that the rapidly growing urbanization in the United States has provided them.
Impact of Urban Expansion on Agricultural Land and Production
Such a critical urban issue as the reduction of agricultural territory is of particular importance for modern society. First, it deprives farmers and ranchers of the opportunity to carry out their activities and develop a business to supply agricultural products. It also follows from this problem that the expansion of the urban area seriously affects the reduction in the amount of natural agricultural products. These goods are mainly dairy and meat products, which are in demand by many of the population. The value of the documentary “Losing Ground” also lies in the fact that a separate part of it is devoted to ways of preventing agriculture, which is necessary to know to reduce the negative impact of urbanization.
Widespread Relevance and Media Coverage of Agricultural Land Loss
It is worth noting that this problem is covered equally in documentary and contemporary media. This is because it is relevant for many modern countries expanding their urban buildings while reducing the amount of arable and valuable agricultural land. Rowsey (2022) notes that “the average destruction of 1,200 square miles of farmland and habitat per year would be unsustainable for a country that desires the continued capability of food independence within its borders” (para. 6). Therefore, the urgency and criticality of the problem are emphasized not only by the creation of documentaries and books but also by the expansion of public attention through media sources.
Environmental, Social, and Cultural Consequences of Urbanization on Farming
This shows the negative dynamics regarding this problem of urbanization and draws attention to the need to solve it. From a geographical point of view, the limitation of agricultural land also negatively affects aspects such as environmental sustainability at both local and global levels. In addition, it affects the social and cultural aspects of the lives of those people for whom it is a lifestyle or a way of ensuring financial well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, such a gap in urbanization, such as the reduction of agricultural territories due to the expansion of urban buildings, is one of the most recent issues relevant to modern society.
References
Angus TV. (2019). Losing ground [Video]. YouTube. Web.
Rowsey, G. (2022). Urban sprawl erodes rural lands. Farm Progress. Web.