A Review of Environmental Conflicts in the Literature on Peri-urban Areas Worldwide: A Comparative Study

The rapid growth of large cities has expanded peri-urban areas, leading to rapid changes in population, physical, economic, and social aspects, causing numerous environmental conflicts. This study discusses these conflicts globally.The article first surveys theoretical literature on this topic, identifying various environmental conflicts in peri-urban areas, including land use change, environmental pollution, degradation of ecosystems and biodiversity, increased demand for natural resources, and changes in the land tenure system. A comparative analysis of global case studies examines the similarities and differences of these conflicts in different countries. Results show that main factors causing these conflicts include increased urban development pressure, changes in the land tenure system, and weaknesses in urban management. Cultural, social, and political differences also affect the pattern and intensity of these conflicts.Environmental conflicts are examined separately in developing and developed countries. In developing countries, rapid development of informal settlements leads to land use change, pollution, and degradation of natural resources and ecosystems. Governance and natural resource management weaknesses create further challenges. In developed countries, a focus on environmental protection and sustainable development is accompanied by challenges such as pollution, habitat destruction, resource wastage, and biodiversity loss. However, stronger environmental policies and resource management have somewhat reduced the intensity of these conflicts.These conflicts can be categorized into factors of unsustainable ecosystems, unplanned urban and regional development, and unequal socio-economic conditions. This article can guide urban planners in managing and reducing environmental conflicts in peri-urban areas.