Advantages and Disadvantages of Cities for People and for the Environment

The Dual Economy A further issue for local authorities is the emergence of a dual economy - a formal economy in which people with jobs work harder and harder, often in 'knowledge industries' (including financial services) - and an informal economy in which an increasing proportion of less-skilled people are in danger of being marginalized by the mainstream of civic society. Even major global cities such as London, New York, and Tokyo are not immune to these trends.' Apriority for local authorities is to prevent the rise of apathy, disillusionment, and social dysfunction among groups that have not been able to participate in the new economy.