Informal urban sprawl and sustainability in Latin America: a review of recent literature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29393/UR20-3EURI10003Keywords:
informal urban expansion, growth of informal settlements, informal urbanization, urban sustainabilityAbstract
Informal urban expansion in Latin America is driven by socioeconomic inequalities, lack of land regulation, and limited access to formal housing. This phenomenon has intensified territorial fragmentation, infrastructure deficits, and socio-environmental vulnerability. This study conducts a systematic review of 25 research articles to analyze the growth patterns of informal settlements, their impacts, and the strategies implemented for their management.
A search was conducted in Scopus, Google Scholar, and SCIELO, applying inclusion criteria that prioritized studies with empirical evidence and verified methodologies. Theoretical works without quantifiable data were excluded. Case studies, predictive models, and geospatial tools were analyzed to assess trends and future scenarios.
The results show that informal urbanization mainly affects populations in peripheral areas. This exacerbates inequality in access to basic services and increases exposure to natural disasters. Strategies such as land regularization, participatory planning, and the integration of geospatial technologies have achieved progress in some contexts. However, they face challenges regarding long-term sustainability.
In conclusion, mitigating informal expansion and strengthening sustainable urban development requires improving governance. Additionally, it is essential to optimize equitable land access and consolidate resilient strategies that integrate technological tools and community participation.
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