This natural aspect of the environment historically allowed for villagers to get food, trade with neighboring countries and even dispose of trash. Lyon became the busy city that it is today as a result of the two rivers. When I walk around the city, it is always easy to orient myself by simply locating one of the rivers. The Rhône and Saône play a large part in every local's everyday experience, considering it is practically impossible to navigate the city without seeing or crossing over one of the rivers.
Living in Lyon, people face many of the same problems as any big city. There is trash and waste as well as problems of poverty and homelessness. However, recent efforts by the local government as well as the national one have helped to reduce these issues a bit. Many grocery stores now sell items in bulk and encourage shoppers to bring reusable containers to purchase goods. There are also various governmental programs that provide groceries and shelter to those who cannot afford to purchase it themselves.
As Lyon grows, becoming a bigger city, the city limit line is constantly being pushed back. More and more residential neighboorhoods are being created to house more people. Rent is rising, and the city is more "globalized" than ever. The term "globalized" refers to how some communities are connecting with different people and companies around the world. While the old buildings and historic architecture remains, streets are also lined with McDonalds, Starbucks and other shops you could just as easily find in the United States.
