Can Cities Be Built on Non-Arable Land?

It is a question that has long intrigued city planners and real estate analysts: can cities be built on land that is incapable of agriculture? In this exploration, we will delve into the possibility and practicality of constructing urban centers on such land, looking at both the challenges and potential solutions.

Challenges and Opportunities

The viability of building cities on non-arable land is not as straightforward as one might imagine. City dwellers generally prefer flat land with a moderate climate that allows for consistent sunshine, which promotes biodiversity and quality of life. Additionally, these urban centers require a reliable water supply, either from natural sources or irrigation systems.

Despite these preferences, it is technically possible to build cities on land that lacks topsoil or is unsuitable for agriculture. For instance, land that is rocky, too saline, or toxic to crops can still be developed for residential and commercial use. The challenges lie in the practical aspects of such construction:

Residents would require imported fresh produce, which could be costly and unsustainable in the long run. Urban environments must find other ways to maintain a semblance of nature, such as improved green spaces, vertical gardens, and indoor agriculture techniques.

Practical Considerations

Building cities on non-arable land is certainly possible but not without significant challenges. The key is to understand that these cities can coexist with nearby agricultural areas that supply the necessary produce. By integrating these agricultural zones, urban centers can maintain a degree of self-sufficiency and sustainability.

A notable example can be seen in British Columbia, Canada, where arable land is predominantly protected. Consequently, new housing developments often occur on hillsides or mountainsides, particularly in larger cities like Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna. High-rise condominiums and apartments are replacing older, low-density housing near rapid transit systems, which allows for efficient urban growth.

For instance, consider an aerial view of Vancouver (Figure 1). Notice how high-density housing and commercial structures are built on various elevated terrains, including hills and mountains. This approach maximizes available land while minimizing the impact on arable areas.

High-Density Housing in Vancouver

Historical and Modern Examples

Historically, cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix in the United States were built on arable land because they provided a natural resource base for sustaining the growing population. However, modern transportation methods have made it possible to build cities away from prime agricultural areas.

Modern urban planning strategies often revolve around the idea of integrating agricultural zones with urban centers to ensure a steady supply of fresh food. This can be achieved through:

Vertical farming and greenhouse developments near urban centers. Suburban or rural areas dedicated to large-scale agriculture. Efficient water management systems to support agriculture.

Conclusion

While it is technically possible to build cities on non-arable land, the practical considerations include ensuring a steady food supply and maintaining a sense of community and environmental health. Urban planners and policymakers must prioritize sustainable practices that integrate agricultural and urban areas to create thriving, livable cities.