The condition of urban agriculture in a Chinese global city: evidence from the field
Gianni Talamini, Qi Zhang, Paola Viganò
Environment and Urbanization
Urban Farm DB summary
Focusing on Nanshan District in Shenzhen, a vast, rapidly urbanizing region of China, this study used a mixed-method approach combining spatial analysis and in-depth semi-structured interviews to analyze the social and spatial characteristics of urban agriculture and its regulation in a Chinese global city. The results show diverse types of urban agriculture coexisting and interacting, forming a socio-biologically rich heterogeneity of precarious practices that are overlooked by local authorities yet contribute to stewardship, social development, community engagement, and the preservation of agricultural heritage. The article presents policy insights and advocates for government involvement in recognizing the social significance of urban agriculture.