A productive permaculture campus in the desert: visions for Qatar University

Urban Farm DB summary

Set against the backdrop of food and water security in Qatar, and recognizing that rapid urbanization not integrated with ecological landscape design is driving urban sprawl, fragmented landscapes and biodiversity loss, this paper presents research on edible landscapes at Qatar University's architecture department, framed around its regenerative-cities concept, aimed at contributing to campus food supply while promoting biodiversity. Drawing on examples from edible campuses worldwide and literature on permaculture and food urbanism, an analysis of existing and future campus buildings and landscapes identified intervention types: retrofitting existing buildings with green roofs, green walls and biodiversity habitats; transforming existing landscapes; using empty land for food production; and integrating food gardens into the design of future buildings. The vision also includes water recycling and treatment, organic waste recycling, renewable energy, citizen participation and awareness campaigns, and collecting quantitative data on food miles.