Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
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1545 results(2 / 62)
Physicochemical Characterization of Surface Waters under Lettuce and Rice Cultivation in the City of Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire
2026Bahi Aristide Armand, Ohou-Yao Marie Jeanne, Kouamé Leonard Kouadio, Sahiri Grâces Kérène, Akpètou Lazare, Akessé Djamatché Paul, Koné Oumar, Dongui Bini Kouamé · International Journal of Environment and Climate Change · Côte d’Ivoire (Daloa)
This study characterized the physicochemical quality of surface waters at 30 sampling points in lettuce and rice cultivation areas in Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire, from January 2024 to January 2025. Physicochemical analyses revealed spatial variability in water quality parameters, with marked fluctuations influenced by agricultural activities. The findings indicate that surface waters are exposed to contamination from farming practices, domestic activities, and rapid urbanization.
Contamination & food safetyHealthClimate changeOrganic cyclePreliminary Evaluation of the Morphophysiological Performance of Three Indonesian Garlic Varieties under Urban Lowland Conditions
2026Erna Siaga, Benyamin Lakitan, Fitra Fadhilah Rizar, Susilawati · Springer Link (Chiba Institute of Technology) · Indonesia
This study evaluated the growth of three Indonesian garlic varieties (Lumbu Sembalun, Lumbu Kuning, Lumbu Hijau) intercropped with yard-long beans as a living shade crop at Sriwijaya University's Greenhouse from July to November 2025. Lumbu Hijau and Lumbu Kuning showed superior growth characteristics, including higher germination and more vigorous early vegetative growth, compared to Lumbu Sembalun. Specifically, Lumbu Hijau exhibited significantly greater shoot length, leaf number, relative chlorophyll content, bulb diameter, and total fresh biomass four weeks after planting.
DIYClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceFood Green Cities for Urban Sustainability (Book)
2026Ambika P. Adhikari, Keshav Bhattarai, Drona Rasali, Sunil Babu Shrestha · UNM’s Digital Repository (University of New Mexico) · Global
This book explores the role of urban agriculture, forestry, and sustainable practices in ensuring food security and addressing climate change and urbanization challenges. It emphasizes urban greening and sustainable land use as strategies for creating livable cities and mitigating environmental degradation. The book compiles research, practical solutions, and transferable strategies applicable to developing countries.
Urban–rural linkageFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeCommunityEVALUACIÓN DE LA SUSTENTABILIDAD DE HUERTOS URBANOS DEL MUNICIPIO DE PUEBLA, PUEBLA, MÉXICO
2026Héctor Bernal-Mendoza, Daniel Jiménez-García, Natyeli Matus Angulo, Miguel Ángel Escalona Aguilar · Agroecología · Mexico (Puebla)
This study evaluated the sustainability of 18 urban gardens in Puebla, Mexico, from 2020 to 2021. The MESMI methodology was applied using 14 indicators across economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Two alternative systems were identified: transitional to conventional and transitional to agroecological, with the latter showing the highest values in 7 indicators and thus concluded to be the most sustainable.
CommunityEconomicsOrganic cycleClimate changeHeat exposure and agricultural workers' health: A global systematic review with implications for Peri-urban and semi-urban Southeast Asia
2026Nu Quy Linh Tran, Cordia Chu, Hai Phung, Son Nghiem, Han Le, Tuyet-Hanh Tran, Dung Phung · Urban Climate · Global
This global systematic review analyzed 97 studies from 27 countries on heat exposure and agricultural workers' health. The majority of studies (54.6%) were from North America, with Africa, South America, and Asia significantly underrepresented. Common health outcomes included self-reported heat-related illnesses (27.8%) and kidney issues (20.6%), but cardiovascular health, mortality, and mental well-being remain significantly understudied. In Southeast Asia, urbanization increases heat risk for peri-urban agricultural workers, as these zones often lack infrastructure, healthcare, and regulatory protections, exacerbating exposure to extreme heat, particularly from the urban heat island effect.
Environmental trade-offsHealthClimate changePeri-urban agricultureLeveraging circular nutrients to improve the sustainability of peri-urban agriculture
2026Angelica Mendoza Beltrán, Susana Toboso‐Chavero, Juan David Arosemena Polo, Adriana Lucia Romero Lestido, gara villalba · npj Urban Sustainability · Spain (Barcelona)
This study investigates the spatial and temporal effects of nutrient circularity strategies in peri-urban agriculture (peri-UA) using a regionalized life cycle assessment tool, focusing on the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona. It examines how nutrient recovery from municipal waste impacts climate change, eutrophication, resource depletion, and water consumption. The research finds that applying compost with current waste management infrastructure can reduce the carbon footprint of peri-UA areas by up to 85%.
Organic cycleClimate changePeri-urban agricultureOptimization of the Urban Food-Energy-Water Nexus: A Micro-Supply Chain and Circular Economy Approach
2026Marwen Elkamel, Luis Rabelo · Sustainability · United States (South Florida)
This paper presents a mathematical programming model to optimize the design and sustainability performance of the urban food–energy–water (FEW) nexus. The model incorporates a micro supply chain and addresses the supply-demand balance within existing and future FEW systems using cost and carbon footprint indicators. It is applied to an urban agriculture network in South Florida, integrating renewable energy technologies, combined heat and power units, reclaimed wastewater and stormwater, and electric vehicles. The optimization process identified effective infrastructure investment, resource allocation, and technology configurations to support circular economy and sustainability.
EconomicsClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceOrganic cycleKajian Kinerja Kelompok Tani dan Manfaat Pertanian Perkotaan di Wilayah Kota Bogor
2026Sukma Aprilia Islami, Tati Budiarti, Afra Donatha Nimia Makalew · Jurnal Lanskap Indonesia · Indonesia (Bogor City)
This study in Bogor City, Indonesia, identified agricultural landscapes in six districts and around farmer groups' gardens, analyzing environmentally friendly urban agriculture practices and benefits. Data from 40 farmer groups and Sentinel-2 image analysis showed South Bogor had the largest agricultural land (10.70%) and Central Bogor the smallest (0.04%). While farmer groups adopted environmentally friendly systems, the application of technologies faced challenges related to cost and technical knowledge.
Governance failureCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceOrganic cycleClimate changeA fenntartható városi infrastruktúra szerepe az életminőség javításában = The role of sustainable urban infrastructurein improving the quality of life
2026Róbert Nagy · Repository of the Academy's Library (Library of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences) · Global
This systematic literature review analyzed 33 Scopus-indexed studies published between 2020 and 2026 on sustainable urban infrastructure investments. It concluded that Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) and urban energy infrastructure significantly contribute to improving mental health, mitigating urban heat island effects, and reducing household energy costs. However, the review also identified structural barriers to BGI adoption, including capital shortages and lack of institutional coordination.
Climate changeHealthBiodiversityCommunityPerceived sustainability impacts of converting to community‐supported agriculture
2026Lukas Egli, Jana V. Schmidt, Hanna‐Sofie Haf, Mirco Zech · Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems · Global
This exploratory quantitative survey assessed farmers' perceived sustainability impacts of converting to Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA). While most perceived impacts were positive, adverse impacts were anticipated regarding climate and water, such as increased water usage from vegetable production. Farmers in CSAs with medium to high member participation perceived significantly higher biodiversity impacts and more positive sustainability impacts for members.
Environmental trade-offsCSA & TeikeiClimate changeBiodiversityEconomicsEkosistem Restorasyonu ve Doğa Temelli Çözümlerle Gıda Sistemlerinin Güçlendirilmesi
2026Çiğdem Coşkun Hepcan · · Global
This study examines how ecosystem restoration and Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) can transform food systems. It highlights that ecosystem degradation threatens essential services, and NbS offer an integrated approach to restoring degraded ecosystems by enhancing soil fertility, improving water retention, and reducing pollution. Integrating NbS into various ecosystems provides a holistic strategy for strengthening ecological integrity and food system resilience, contributing to climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and disaster risk reduction.
BiodiversityClimate changeOrganic cycleFood sovereignty & justiceShrinking agriculture in the arid landscapes of the Cholistan Desert: a geospatial assessment of urban expansion and its implications for the sustainable future of Multan City, Pakistan
2026Muhammad Hussain, Saima Shaikh, Zahir Ahmad, Ihsanullah, George Kontakiotis, Andreas Dittmann · Ecological Questions · Pakistan (Multan City)
This study analyzed urban expansion patterns and their impact on agricultural land in Multan City, Pakistan, using remotely sensed data from 1990 to 2020. The built-up area increased from 75 km² in 1990 to 299 km² in 2020, representing an annual increase of 9.5%. This growth converted approximately 31% (100 km²) of fertile agricultural land into built-up areas, with predictions of further increases of 54% by 2030 and 67% by 2040.
Governance failurePolicyUrban–rural linkageClimate changeModel dan Tata Kelola Pertanian Kota Berbasis Ekonomi Hijau pada Rumah Susun di DKI Jakarta
2026Aliyah Revitaningrum Revitaningrum, Arif Rizqi Azhari, Ahmad Arifuddin, Derryl Fadhlurrahman Abdul Rozzaq · PENA BANGSA Bisnis dan Tata Kelola Publik Adaptif · Indonesia (DKI Jakarta)
This qualitative literature review aimed to formulate a conceptual model for integrating urban agriculture and green economy principles in apartment housing in DKI Jakarta, Indonesia. Based on previous studies, the findings suggest that urban agriculture can be implemented through a modular vertical bioclimatic skin concept. This model has the potential to improve energy efficiency, reduce water consumption, support carbon-emission reduction, strengthen food resilience, create green economic opportunities, and enhance social cohesion.
CommunityOrganic cycleClimate changeEconomicsIntegración de huertos escolares como estrategia didáctica para fortalecer el aprendizaje sobre ecosistemas y sostenibilidad en estudiantes de Educación Básica.
2026Gema Paola Loor Bravo, Carmen Fernanda Sandoval Lloacana, Viky Beatriz Batallas Huera, Verónica Leonor Loja Caló, Nuve del Cisne Matute Maldonado · Perspectiva XXI · Global
A quasi-experimental mixed-methods study investigated the integration of school gardens as a pedagogical resource in basic education. The intervention, using project-based learning and scientific inquiry, aimed to enhance learning about ecosystems and sustainability. Findings indicated that students improved ecological knowledge, systems thinking, and environmental problem-solving skills, while also strengthening autonomy, environmental responsibility, and socio-emotional abilities.
Food educationCommunityClimate changeBiodiversityIntegrating vertical and urban farming into sustainable food systems: a comprehensive review
2026Thulisekari Prasanna, Guda Bhargavi, Murugesan Mohana Keerthi · Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems · Global
This comprehensive review synthesizes literature on vertical and urban agriculture within sustainable food systems, identifying production models and technical advancements. Empirical evidence indicates these systems can improve water/land-use efficiency, yield stability, and reduce post-harvest losses. However, significant challenges persist, including high capital and energy prices, inadequate crop diversification, technical complexities, and regulatory constraints, impacting their economic viability.
Economic viabilityUrban–rural linkagePeri-urban agricultureClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsPolicyDigital agricultureLife Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Urban Wastewater Reuse: Successes, Persistent Pitfalls, and a Practical Path Forward
2026Eleonora Santos, Zeeshan Arshad · Sustainability · Global
This critical narrative review synthesized evidence from 25 peer-reviewed studies on Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) applications in urban municipal wastewater reuse. While positive outcomes were reported under specific conditions like low-carbon energy grids and short transport distances, persistent methodological pitfalls were identified. These include weak pillar integration, an underdeveloped social dimension, inconsistent system boundaries, and insufficient consideration of absolute sustainability.
Methodological critiqueClimate changeOrganic cyclePolicyClimate change impact on urban food gardens: implications for adaptation strategies and food and nutrition security in townships in Pietermaritzburg Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
2026Nthabeleng Tamako, Joyce Chitja · Agriculture & Food Security · South Africa
This study examined the impact of climate change on urban food gardens in Sobantu and Mpophomeni townships in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Face-to-face interviews with 103 randomly selected participants revealed that climate change disproportionately affects resource-limited urban farmers, leading to erratic rainfall, pests, and natural disasters. Elevated temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and new pests and diseases significantly impact food gardens, affecting seed and crop selection and contributing to food insecurity.
Environmental trade-offsClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceWelfareUrban–rural linkageGeospatial Dynamics of Urban Irrigation Agricultural Land Use for Sustainable Income Generation on the Jos Plateau
2026Dr. Emmanuel Omomoh, Sunday Nannim, Dr. Rogers Rengje. Danlami Gujahar, Moses Omitunde Omirinde, Gwamzhi Ponsah Emmanuel · International Journal of Latest Technology in Engineering Management & Applied Science · Nigeria (Jos)
A study analyzed urban irrigation agricultural land use changes in Jos South Metropolis, Nigeria, over a ten-year period (2014–2024) using geospatial techniques and fieldwork. Market garden area declined by 5.84%, while settlements expanded by 34.76%. Key constraints to sustainable urban agriculture were identified, including land tenure insecurity (63% of dry-season farmers were landless), limited access to irrigation water, pest and disease pressure, inadequate fertilizer supply, and increasing competition for land from urban development.
Governance failureEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changePolicyUrban farming through Student READY in ICAR-SAU System for comprehensive food security
2026V.Rajendra Prasad, D.Chinnama Naidu, M.Suresh Kumar · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · India
This abstract proposes integrating urban farming into the Student READY program within the ICAR-SAU System in India to enhance food and nutritional security. It suggests introducing urban farming into the program's five components, including Experiential Learning and Hands-on training. Proposed activities for undergraduate students include aquaponics, rooftop farms, and growing specialty crops, while methodologies involve utilizing underutilized spaces, creating care farms, and establishing community gardens.
Food educationFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeDIYWelfareA review on urban horticulture: An innovative approach for smart cities
2026Davendra Kumar, Krishan Pal, Ashish Kumar · International Journal of Advanced Biochemistry Research · Global
This review discusses urban horticulture as a viable method to address challenges arising from rapid urbanization, population growth, food crisis, and climate change. It notes that by 2050, 40.76% of India's population is projected to live in urban areas, increasing pressure on urban resources and rural agricultural production. Urban horticulture is presented as a sustainable way to reduce agricultural pressure and combat food crisis.
Food sovereignty & justiceClimate changeEconomicsUrban–rural linkageTides of Change
2026Teesa Sindhu P. Thomas · · Global
This paper discusses four transformative strategies—biogas production, algae-based fertilizers, hydroponics, and community gardens—to enhance the resilience of coastal communities worldwide against climate change impacts. The findings highlight the potential of these sustainable practices to transform coastal communities into resilient, economically stable, and ecologically sustainable hubs.
CommunityClimate changeCrop Diversification in Kaluvankulam: Replacing Paddy with Flower Crops under Pollution Stress
2026Pari Diwahar, Chandran. S, Paramasivan SatheeshKumar · International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology · India (Madurai District, Tamil Nadu)
This study in Kaluvankulam, Madurai District, India, assessed the adaptability of treated municipal wastewater for marigold irrigation, where paddy yields have declined. Analysis of treated wastewater showed oil and grease and chemical oxygen demand (COD) levels exceeded permissible irrigation standards. Soil analysis revealed elevated phosphorus, potassium, and iron concentrations, indicating nutrient accumulation.
Contamination & food safetyPeri-urban agricultureClimate changeBiodiversityURBAN SUSTAINABILITY, GREEN SPACES, AND ECO-CITY PLANNING
2026Meenakshi Bisht, Amisha Bisht, Sanjay Kumar, Subhash Chandra · · Global
This chapter explores the interrelationship between urban sustainability, green spaces, and eco-city planning, highlighting key concepts, strategies, benefits, challenges, and policy frameworks. Urban sustainability aims to balance economic prosperity, environmental protection, and social well-being, while green spaces enhance environmental quality and mitigate climate change impacts. Eco-city planning integrates ecological principles and sustainable technologies to create environmentally responsible and climate-resilient cities.
CommunityBiodiversityClimate changeHealthPolicyKey catalysts and constraints of urban agriculture for sustainable food systems: A case study of Thiruvananthapuram, India
2026Sreedaya G S, Smitha S, Mathew Riza, Somashekar Patil Sheetal, K Sreelakshmi, Krishna R Aswathi, V S Chinchu, Somanath Gopika, J R Shalini · Plant Science Today · India (Thiruvananthapuram)
This study examined catalysts and constraints of urban agriculture (UA) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, collecting data from 124 urban farmers across 20 wards in 2024 using mixed methods. Catalysts were categorized as socio-economic benefits, ecosystem services, and fitness and well-being, with fitness and well-being being the most influential. Constraints included institutional barriers like lack of timely information and socio-economic challenges such as poor soil fertility.
EconomicsHealthClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceThe association between climate-smart agriculture practices adoption and farm income and wealth of small-scale urban crop farmers in eThekwini municipality, with implications for food and nutrition security
2026Khumalo N. Z., Sibanda M., Mdoda L. · Frontiers in Nutrition · 南アフリカ・エテクウィニ市（ダーバン）
A multi-stage sample of 412 small-scale urban crop farmers in eThekwini municipality, South Africa, with a conditional mixed process model relating a composite index of climate-smart agriculture adoption (agroforestry, conservation agriculture, crop diversification, rotation, cover crops, drought-tolerant crops, mulching, organic manure, wetland use, soil conservation) to farm income and a wealth index. Adoption was positively associated with both, but the authors state the estimated income association is "relatively modest" and should be read with caution. Several socio-economic variables showed counterintuitive associations, and because existing agricultural training showed a weak association with income-enhancing adoption, the authors call for context-specific, outcome-oriented training and extension rather than more of the same.
Limited or null effectEconomicsClimate changePolicy