Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
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Critical findings
3241 results(14 / 130)
Effect of urban agriculture on the quality of urban life: A review
2025Babatunde S. Adedotun, Martin Binde Gasu, Ismail A. Oyerinde, Dele Sunday Ogundahunsi, Oluwatoyin David ADEDOTUN · The Journal of Agriculture and Development · Global
This research conducted an extensive literature review on the correlation between urban agriculture and the quality of life of urban residents, synthesizing 20 peer-reviewed scholarly papers published between 2010 and 2022 from databases like Scopus. Urban agriculture was shown to offer economic benefits, community engagement, health improvements, environmental benefits, and cultural connections, but also presented negative externalities such as resource exploitation, contamination, and ecosystem disruption.
EconomicsCommunityHealthClimate changeThe influence of payments and time payments: Preconditions to implement nature-based solutions in Austrian cities
2025Ulrike Pröbstl‐Haider, Magdalena Feilhammer, Alice Wanner · Cities · Austria
This paper analyzed opportunities and barriers for implementing nature-based solutions (NBS) in Austrian cities. A survey of 1055 urban residents investigated conditions under which NBS reduce particulate matter, NO2, and air temperature. Results highlighted the relevance of design types like green corridors and community gardens, and the importance of direct and time payments, indicating that a €45 payment with a 10-minute walking distance to home was acceptable if high environmental benefits were achieved.
CommunityPolicyEconomicsClimate changeThe Contribution of Urban Agriculture to the Sustainable Development of Cities
2025Katarina Đurić, Mirjana Lukač Bulatović, Mihaela Kavran, Rajna Duletić, Nikola Puvača · Journal of Agronomy Technology and Engineering Management (JATEM) · Global
This paper argues that urban agriculture can serve as a significant tool for achieving sustainable urban development during intensive urban growth. Applying methods of analysis, synthesis, and descriptive research, it systematizes the economic, environmental, and social benefits provided by urban agriculture, including community gardens. The paper also highlights the most significant challenges currently faced by urban agriculture.
CommunityEconomicsClimate changeDe la gestion des déchets à l’agriculture urbaine : circularités et tensions des filières de matières organiques à Nkayi (République du Congo)
2025Noémie Régeard · L’Espace Politique · Congo
This article explores the circularity of organic matter streams in Nkayi, an intermediate city in Congo, through interviews and observations. The qualitative inquiry reveals the coexistence of institutional household waste streams, supported by a development project, and informal organic matter streams, identified through intra- and peri-urban agricultural practices. These streams are subject to various socio-territorial, political, and economic tensions.
Governance failureOrganic cycleCompostPolicyEconomicsCommunityCentre for Sustainable Agricultural Skill Development and Community Livelihood Advancement in West Bengal
2025A.K. Sen · International Journal for Research in Applied Science and Engineering Technology · India
Agriculture in West Bengal, India, faces challenges including decreasing farm sizes, lack of modern farming knowledge, rural migration, and low farmer income. This research explores the design and development of an Urban Agricultural Skill Development Centre (UASDC) to bridge the gap between traditional and modern farming practices. The project proposes a self-sustaining model integrating skill training, marketplace access, and architectural design to enhance farmer income, promote environmental sustainability, and strengthen rural-urban linkages.
Food educationEconomicsUrban–rural linkageCommunitySustainable Urban Agriculture New Frontier
2025Asifa Asifa, Muhammad Azizan · Urban Policy and Research · Global
Rapidly growing urbanization presents complex socio-economic and environmental challenges, necessitating a sustainability approach that encompasses social well-being (the brown agenda) and ecological protection.
Climate changeEconomicsCommunityFAZENDAS VERTICAIS NA SEMIPERIFERIA DO CAPITALISMO
2025Claudia Rochael Oliveira · Terra Livre · Global
This article argues that while vertical farms (VFs) are often presented as indispensable for sustainable cities, their purported sustainability is difficult to achieve without structural changes to reduce social inequalities. Critiques of urban agriculture, including VFs, point to their contribution to gentrification, racialization of space, and vulnerability to real estate capital, indicating a critical finding regarding equity. The article advocates for VFs to be appropriated by social movements to foster critical stances against conventional agriculture and catalyze urban utopias.
Equity & displacementFood sovereignty & justicePolicyCommunityEconomicsField diagnosis of farmers’ adaptation challenges to climate change in the agricultural urban landscapes
2025Henry Mensah · City and Environment Interactions · Ghana (Kumasi)
This study investigated adaptation practices and challenges among 85 urban farmers across three locations in Kumasi, Ghana. Farmers employed strategies like planting local crop varieties, expanding farms, and relocating. However, these strategies are hindered by institutional and technological limitations, financial constraints, lack of climate information, and delays in extension support, indicating significant governance challenges.
Governance failureClimate changePolicyEconomicsUrban–rural linkageWOMEN’S INVOLVEMENT IN URBAN FARMING: AN ANALYSIS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS IN TASIKMALAYA, INDONESIA
2025Universitas Perjuangan, Ristina Siti Sundari, Lies Sulistyowati, Universitas Padjadjaran, Trisna Insan Noor, Universitas Padjadjaran, Iwan Setiawan, Universitas Padjadjaran, Farhan Ahmad, Universitas Padjadjaran, RAFIF NAUFAL ASSADEL TARIGAN, Universitas Siliwangi · Journal of Sustainability Science and Management · Indonesia (Tasikmalaya)
This study, conducted from February to December 2021, investigated women's implementation of urban agriculture in Tasikmalaya, Indonesia, involving 250 participants from 136 urban farming collectives. Despite 100% institutional support, urban farming faced significant challenges in market access, resource allocation, and regulatory frameworks. The findings highlighted the importance of urban farming for empowering women, reducing poverty, and promoting environmental sustainability.
Economic viabilityCommunityEconomicsPolicyFood sovereignty & justiceSustainability of Peri-Urban Rice Farming Practices in Ilorin, Nigeria
2025A. K. Ahmed, Rasheed Abiodun KURANGA, Oluwadara Latifat ISOLA-MUYIDEEN · International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science · Nigeria (Ilorin)
This study assessed the sustainability of environmental management practices among peri-urban rice farmers in Ilorin, Nigeria, using a sustainability index. It found that many practices were less sustainable, with 69.51% of farmers relying on chemical sprays and 69.85% using chemical fertilizers. The overall Environmental Management Practices Sustainability Index (EMPSI) for all farmers was 0.492, placing them in the moderately sustainable category.
Environmental trade-offsPeri-urban agricultureFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeEconomicsUrban Vegetable Clusters as Engines of Sustainable Urban Livelihood: A Case Study of Narkara, Srinagar
2025Sehreena Maqbool · International Journal for Research in Applied Science and Engineering Technology · India (Srinagar)
This study examined the socio-economic viability and sustainability of vegetable cultivation in urban clusters, specifically the Narkara belt of Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. Analyzing primary data from 60 urban vegetable growers and market functionaries, the research found that vegetable farming substantially contributes to household income and nutrition. It also suggests that institutional support and market reforms could enhance its performance, proposing recommendations for urban agricultural policy.
EconomicsFood sovereignty & justicePolicyCommunityAnalyzing the prospects and hurdles of urban agriculture an examination of economic landscapes and versatile approaches in Ethiopia
2025Mohammed Adem Ali, B. Lilly Grace Eunice · Discover Sustainability · Ethiopia
Urban agriculture in Ethiopia is a vital livelihood strategy, contributing to employment, income, and food security. Despite its significant contributions to GDP and urban employment, its potential is insufficiently utilized due to structural obstacles. These hurdles include restricted access to land and water, deficient regulatory frameworks, poor institutional support, social stigma, and environmental risks, and it is insufficiently acknowledged in urban development strategies.
Governance failureEconomicsFood sovereignty & justicePolicyCommunityKomunikasi Partisipatif dalam Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Oleh PT. Saka Energi Muriah Limited Melalui Program Urban Farming di Kelurahan Tambakredjo
2025Yunita Dwi Astuti, Chrisdina Wempi · Jurnal Sosial Teknologi · Indonesia
In Tambakredjo Village, Indonesia, the impact of participatory communication within PT. Saka Energi Muriah Limited's urban farming program was analyzed using a qualitative descriptive case study. Findings indicated that participatory communication contributed to increased community empowerment, self-confidence, and farming skills. Economically, the program strengthened food security and created new business opportunities, and social interaction in training strengthened relationships among residents.
CommunityFood educationEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceURBAN AGRICULTURE AND INCOME CONTRIBUTION: EVIDENCE ACROSS HOUSEHOLD INCOME GROUPS IN YOGYAKARTA
2025Hedwig Ajeng Grahani, Seno Budhi Ajar · Jurnal Ilmiah Ekonomi Bisnis · Indonesia (Yogyakarta)
This study investigated how urban farming contributes to household income and shapes income disparities among urban farmers in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, using data from 217 urban farming households. Urban farming's contribution to total income was lowest among low–middle income households (1.38%) and highest among middle–high income households (50.06%), with an overall average of 30.98%. Regression analysis confirmed that higher-income households gain more from urban farming, while other income sources reduce its relative importance. These results suggest urban farming serves as a key income generator for wealthier households but remains supplementary for poorer ones.
EconomicsWelfareInternet of Things-Based Smart Precision Farming in Soilless Agriculture: Opportunities and Challenges for Global Food Security
2025Monica Dutta, Deepali Gupta, Sumegh Tharewal, Deepam Goyal, Jasminder Kaur Sandhu, Manjit Kaur, Ahmad Ali AlZubi, Jazem Mutared Alanazi · IEEE Access · Global
This comprehensive study, utilizing bibliometric and comparative analysis, explored the opportunities and challenges of IoT-based soilless agriculture for global food security. While these advanced farming methods offer benefits like increased productivity and resource conservation, they also face significant challenges including high initial investment, technological dependency, and energy consumption. The research highlights current trends and research gaps in this field.
Economic viabilityDigital agricultureFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsBenefits from circular economy
2025Rolf Morgenstern, Bernd Pölling · · Global
This chapter explores the economic benefits and challenges of integrating nature-based solutions (NBS), including urban farming, into circular economy frameworks in urban environments. Using the proGIreg framework and an Economic and Labour Market Questionnaire, it reveals financial impacts of NBS implementations. Case studies from Zagreb, Turin, and Dortmund illustrate diverse economic outcomes, demonstrating both direct financial returns and broader economic value created by NBS.
EconomicsBiodiversityPollinatorsClimate changeFarmer awareness of heavy metal contamination in urban roadside vegetables along the Accra–Tema motorway, Ghana
2025Ebenezer Boahen · Discover Agriculture · Ghana
This study assessed the awareness and practices of 50 purposively selected vegetable farmers along the Accra-Tema Motorway, Ghana, regarding heavy metal contamination from vehicular emissions and its potential health implications. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and one-on-one interviews. Results showed that 96% of the farmers were unaware of heavy metal contamination, though 80% expressed a willingness to discontinue farming near the motorway if they were informed of the risks. Farmers face challenges such as limited access to clean irrigation water and dependence on informal agricultural knowledge. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted educational interventions to raise awareness about the risks of heavy metal exposure and to encourage safer farming practices.
Contamination & food safetyHealthEconomicsFood sovereignty & justicePemberdayaan Perempuan Melalui Inovasi Urban Farming di Kampung Ijo Kelurahan Kendangsari Kota Surabaya
2025Manda Ayu Febrianti, Dewi Casmiwati · JIIP - Jurnal Ilmiah Ilmu Pendidikan · Indonesia (Surabaya)
A qualitative descriptive study in Kampung Ijo, Surabaya City, Indonesia, investigated women's empowerment through urban farming innovation. Focusing on three stages—awareness, capacity building, and empowerment—the study found that urban farming provided economic, social, and environmental benefits to the local community. However, limitations such as minimal local government support and technical challenges during the rainy season were also identified.
CommunityWelfareEconomicsFood educationFuture climate risks and sectoral vulnerabilities shaping resilience in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana
2025Yaw Agyeman Boafo, Bob Offei Manteaw, Philip Antwi‐Agyei, Portia Adade-Williams, Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Kofi Asare, Doreen Larkailey Lartey, Bernard Ayittiah · Discover Cities · Ghana
This study assesses future climate risks and sectoral vulnerabilities in Ghana's Cape Coast Metropolis using meteorological data and downscaled climate projections through 2100. Findings indicate significant warming trends and heightened rainfall variability, which render peri-urban agriculture highly susceptible to crop failure, fishery declines, and water scarcity. Informal economic sectors are also at risk from infrastructure damage and income impacts.
Limited or null effectClimate changePeri-urban agricultureEconomicsIntegrasi Perencanaan Pertanian dan Pengembangan Pariwisata
2025Erwin Wisnubroto, Maurus Barrawiadi · JURNAL PERTANIAN · Indonesia (Batu)
This study in Batu City, Indonesia, evaluated the sustainability of agricultural production in three sub-districts—Batu, Junrejo, and Bumiaji—using the PROMETHEE method. Data were collected through FGDs, interviews with key stakeholders, and secondary statistical sources, analyzing five sustainability indicators including horticultural vegetables, biopharmaceutical crops, ornamental plants, fruit crops, and small farmer labor availability. The results showed that Bumiaji sub-district had the highest net flow value for sustainability, while Batu sub-district showed declining performance.
Economic viabilityPeri-urban agricultureEconomicsClimate changePolicyGREEN BUSINESS CANVAS: KIOSCHEBIBIT'S ENTREPRENEURIAL STRATEGY IN PLANT SEEDLING SUPPLY
2025Yuni Arianti, Ridlwan Muttaqin · Jurnal Dinamika Ekonomi Syariah · Global
This paper focuses on formulating development strategies for Kioschebibit, a micro-enterprise specializing in plant seedling supply, using the Business Model Canvas (BMC) approach alongside a SWOT analysis. A qualitative descriptive case study revealed Kioschebibit’s strengths in product variety, competitive pricing, and social media marketing, but noted challenges in distribution reach and digital marketing execution. External opportunities like gardening trends and green initiatives present substantial growth potential, though threats such as extreme weather and raw material fluctuations must be addressed. By integrating BMC and SWOT frameworks, this study proposes an adaptive and data-driven entrepreneurship strategy as a foundation for sustainable business development.
EconomicsDigital agricultureDIYShorter Food Chains
2025Jeffery W Bentley, Paul Van Mele · CABI eBooks · Global
Supermarkets dominate the food market, resulting in lower prices for farmers and the decline of smaller shops, impacting local sourcing and quality. The abstract states that consumers and local governments can support family businesses, farm shops, and farmer markets, with examples from France to Ecuador. Allotment gardens and innovations like the Belgian ‘Juice Mobile’ are also noted for providing fresh food, social interaction, exercise, and a connection to nature.
Food sovereignty & justiceCommunityHealthEconomicsInformation Management and Utilization in Urban Agriculture and the Impact of Farm Diversification
2025Mitsuhito HOSAKA, Mitsuyo UEMATSU, Hironori Yagi · 農村計画学会誌 · Japan
This study identified the relationship between information management and farm diversification in urban areas using quantitative analysis from the Census of Agriculture and Forestry and a multiple case analysis of seven farmers using farm management information systems (FMIS). Regression analysis revealed that farmers who diversify their businesses, especially those selling directly to consumers or food manufacturers/services, are likely to manage their business information. Multiple case analysis indicated that diversified farmers focus on searching for pesticide information and simplify the management of scheduled and actual farm work.
EconomicsDigital agricultureCSA & TeikeiDigital Land Governance and Gendered Credit Access: A Peri-urban Theoretical Framework for Kigali, Rwanda (2000–2026)
2025Marie Claire Uwase, Jean de Dieu Uwimana · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Rwanda (Kigali)
This article develops a theoretical framework to analyze how digital land registries in Rwanda, specifically in Kigali's peri-urban areas, mediate women's access to formal agricultural credit. The framework posits that despite formal legal equality, digitization can paradoxically solidify existing patriarchal biases within credit assessment algorithms. It reveals that digital land governance is not a neutral solution for gendered credit gaps and can entrench barriers to women's financial inclusion in peri-urban agriculture by systematically undervaluing women's communal land use practices as collateral.
Equity & displacementPeri-urban agriculturePolicyEconomicsDigital agricultureDeveloping Sustainable Urban Agriculture in Research and Innovation Smart Specialisation Strategy to Implement the Quintuple Helix
2025Ana María Bartolomé Sualdea, Teresa Briz, Beatriz Urbano · Sustainable Development · Europe
This study analyzed socio-economic variables from 100 European regions to understand how urban agriculture (UA) development within Research and Innovation Smart Specialisation Strategy (RIS3) benefits regions. A binary logistic regression found that a 1% increase in the population over 65 could lead to a 72.75% increase in UA. ANOVA results indicated that regions benefit from UA in RIS3 through active aging, diversification, alleviating urbanization pressure, technology development, and improved governance and social capital.
PolicyEconomicsCommunityElderly