Unprecedented growth, extreme climate change and aging infrastructure pose enormous challenges to any modern city. But on the global stage, some players have evolved to meet these growing demands. The world’s megacities documentary series focuses on these enviable places around the world, as well as other major cities currently struggling to stay ahead. The hour-long episode recaps seven megalopolis profiles featured in the show’s first season.
Many of these places were founded hundreds of years ago under impoverished conditions, but have since grown into some of the most advanced and populous cities in the world.
This is the case in Tokyo. Hailed as a model of the modern metropolis, Japan’s capital has experienced major hurdles throughout its history. Rapid population growth, a poorly developed natural environment, and the ever-present threat of earthquakes pose several dangers to the region. But the city turned its fortunes around by promoting more sensible and compassionate social values. They become thriving players in the global economy, grow into one of the world’s most advanced technology leaders, build more sustainable infrastructure, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility.
These in-depth profiles allow us to understand the challenges we face no matter where we are on the world map. In São Paulo, a widening wealth gap and lackluster leadership are stifling the city’s efforts to better serve its more than 12 million residents. Meanwhile, Mexico City’s nearly 9 million residents suffer from a chronic lack of fresh water supplies. Other cities featured in the film include Cairo, Bangladesh, New York City and culturally vibrant Paris.
The world’s megacities contains a wealth of images that succinctly express the unique characteristics of each city and the qualities that unite them. We know the rich history of each place; many of them from catastrophic events such as pandemics and natural disasters.
This film proves that the state of the world can often be judged by the quality of life in our largest cities.
