Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
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The impact of school activities carried out in vegetable gardens on the eating habits of elementary school students: an integrative review
2026Joana Baier, Karla P. Machado, Luiz Ernesto Costa‐Schmidt · Figshare · Global
This study analyzed the impacts of activities developed in school gardens on the eating habits of children in the early years of Elementary School through an integrative literature review. Searches in PubMed, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library databases for articles published from 2015 onward identified 24 eligible studies. The studies showed positive effects of garden-based interventions on consumption, acceptance, preference, nutritional knowledge, and attitudes toward fruits and vegetables, with some also reporting positive effects on anthropometric and metabolic parameters. Recurrent limitations included short intervention durations, low caregiver involvement, and high demand for human, structural, and material resources.
Food educationHealthConhecimento sobre plantas alimentícias não convencionais e produção da farinha de cansanção (Urera baccifera)
2026Maísa Aparecida da Costa · Brazilian Journal of Development · Brazil (Sete Lagoas)
This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of unconventional food plants (PANC) among high school students' families in a private school in Sete Lagoas, Brazil, and to prepare flour from cansanção (Urera baccifera) leaves and assess its nutritional potential. While 54.1% of participants claimed to know the term PANC, consumption was low, with 62.2% reporting rare intake. Analysis of cansanção flour revealed high levels of protein (25.58 g/100 g), fiber (9.14 g/100 g), and calcium (5185 mg/100 g), highlighting its nutritional value.
Food educationCommunityHealthSoil Fertility Management Training for Urban Women Farmers Using PUTK and PUPO: A Participatory Rural Appraisal Approach in KWT Roay Lestari, Indonesia
2026Anita Dwy Fitria, Dwi Wijayanti, Kusuma Agdhi Rahwana, Missi Hikmatyar · ABDIMAS Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat · Indonesia
This community service program in KWT Roay Lestari, Indonesia, aimed to improve soil fertility management skills among urban women farmers using simple soil and fertilizer testing tools. A Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) approach was applied, involving active farmer participation in training and field practice. Pre- and post-training questionnaires showed an increase in participants’ knowledge by over 80% and an initial-final knowledge increase of over 50%. Soil analysis revealed moderately fertile soil with slightly acidic pH, moderate phosphorus, low potassium, and low organic matter, leading to recommendations for the application of 20–25 tons/ha of manure, 20 ml/L of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, and 3 tons/ha of lime. The program effectively enhanced farmers’ capacity to independently manage soil fertility in urban farming systems.
DIYFood educationCommunityOrganic cycleGardeners’ knowledge of arthropod ecological roles is shaped by experience, education, and gender
2026Edith Gonzales, Brenda B. Lin, Heidi Liere, Shalene Jha, Stacy M. Philpott · Figshare · United States (California)
An online survey of community gardeners in California, United States, assessed their knowledge of arthropod ecological roles. Gardeners demonstrated high knowledge, correctly classifying 71–83% of arthropod images. Female gardeners more accurately classified pollinators, while those who participated in a Master Gardener program more accurately classified herbivores and natural enemies.
CommunityBiodiversityPollinatorsFood educationIntersectando a agricultura urbana, o meio ambiente e a educação:
2026Rogers Hansine, Christine Bonnin, Inês Raimundo, Madal Artur, Cândida Bila · Revista Tamoios · Mozambique
The SYNERGI project, implemented from March 2023 to September 2025, aimed to promote urban community involvement in co-creating Socially Inclusive Edible Urban Green Infrastructure (IVUCs) in Maputo and Xai-Xai, Mozambique. The project successfully established IVUCs in six selected schools, increasing food production and educational opportunities. The project highlights the need for better institutional frameworks to support green infrastructure development.
Governance failureCommunityFood educationBiodiversityPolicyLearning Grassroots Regenerative Circularity: Food Forest Pedagogies of Praxis
2026Kensington Food Forest, Kensington Circular Economy Precinct Community Group, Nícolas Guerra-Tão, Corey Ferguson, Alexandre da Silva Faustino, Ana Lara Heyns, Zheng Chin, Stephanie Ochona, Benjamin Cooke · Australian Journal of Environmental Education · Australia (Melbourne)
Research conducted with the Kensington Circular Economy Precinct Community Group in Naarm/Melbourne, Australia, examined the Kensington Food Forest, an urban ecological site within public housing estates. This study co-created indicators to capture the ecological, social, and pedagogical values generated by grassroots initiatives, showing how communities learn with their environment and each other. The findings position regenerative circularity as an embodied, relational, and pedagogical praxis.
CommunityBiodiversityOrganic cycleFood educationPemberdayaan Kelompok Tani Urban Farming Melalui Integrasi Teknologi Budikdamber Untuk Mendukung Ketahanan Pangan
2026Imtihan, Lisa Mayasari, Sanny Edinov · Jurdimas (Jurnal Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat) Royal · Indonesia (Padang)
This community service program empowered the Sumber Harapan Farmers Group in Padang City, Indonesia, by applying BUDIKDAMBER (Fish Cultivation in Buckets) technology. The program, which included socialization, training, and mentoring, equipped the group with skills in integrating catfish cultivation with vegetable crops. Knowledge and skills of the farmers group increased from 20% to 87.31%, demonstrating the technology's effectiveness in enhancing participation and food security.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceFood educationPEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT MELALUI BUDIDAYA IKAN DALAM GALON SEBAGAI SOLUSI KETAHANAN PANGAN DI DESA CISALAM, KECAMATAN BAROS, KABUPATEN SERANG
2026Rini Yanuarti, Muhammad Niswan, Rizka Fasliana, Sindi Abeliana, Suci Sri Rachmawati · Journal of Maritime Empowerment · Indonesia (Serang)
A community empowerment program in Cisalam Village, Serang Regency, Indonesia, provided knowledge and education on fish cultivation in gallons (BUDIGALON) and water spinach planting. This initiative aimed to address food shortages and promote healthy living due to the community's reliance on rain-fed rice fields. An evaluation showed that participants' knowledge and understanding of these practices increased by an average of 63%.
DIYFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityFood educationBEHAVIOURAL DETERMINANTS OF URBAN FARMING ADOPTION IN MALAYSIA: A QUALITATIVE STUDY USING THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOUR
2026Hamed Faghiri, Zulkornain Yusop · International Journal of Innovation and Industrial Revolution · Malaysia
This qualitative study investigated the behavioral intentions of urban citizens towards urban farming in Malaysia, using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework. Semi-structured interviews with 50 participants from major urban centers in Peninsular Malaysia revealed that positive attitudes, such as valuing food freshness, health benefits, and environmental impact, strongly motivate participation. Subjective norms are shaped by family support, community inspiration, and the growing visibility of urban farming, while perceived behavioral control depends on factors like space, time, and access to knowledge and technology. Participants with higher self-efficacy and greater community involvement showed more willingness to engage in urban farming.
CommunityHealthFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsFood educationDoes gardening make us feel better? Assessing the motivations and perceptions of urban gardeners in Bogota, Colombia
2026Laura Rojas-Pardo, Tereza Pilařová, Kindah Ibrahim, Patrick Van Damme, Vladimír Verner · Local Environment · Colombia (Bogotá)
This study assessed the self-reported motivations for urban homegardening in Bogota, Colombia, through thematic content analysis of 119 semi-structured interviews. Three main motivations were identified: enjoyment, food self-provision, and social connection, which were associated with gardeners' socioeconomic strata and garden location. Enjoyment was a significant factor for over 70% of respondents in central and northern areas, while aesthetic appeal and economic constraints were prominent in the southern periphery, with only lower socioeconomic strata reporting economic reasons for gardening.
HealthFood educationCommunityEconomicsEmpowering Communities Through Sustainable Urban Agriculture: A Case Study of Farmer Training Program for Resettled Refugees
2026Joonmo Kang, Euijin Jung, Cheryl Holmes, Benjamin Carpenter, Kristin Selby · Journal of Community Practice · United States (Kansas City)
A case study was conducted on New Roots, a farmer training program for resettled refugees and immigrants in Kansas City, USA. The research team participated in the program for a year before interviewing farmers and staff to gain insights into the program's impact. Findings revealed that farmers were drawn to New Roots for its flexibility, perceived benefits for mental well-being, and opportunities for social connection. The program was shown to offer a path to independence and cultivate a sense of community among participants.
CommunityWelfareFood educationAprender com a Terra: a horta como prática pedagógica em Educação Ambiental e Alimentar na Educação Infantil
2026Vívian Ariane de Oliveira Costa, Raíssa Aline Pereira, Mariana Azevedo Rabelo, Paula Montenegro Euzébio, Angela Liberali Pinheiro, Gabriella Ribeiro · Revista Brasileira de Educação Ambiental (RevBEA) · Brazil
This article reports on a school garden implemented in Early Childhood Education at Cirandinha School, in partnership with the Poços de Caldas Botanical Garden Foundation, after in-person classes resumed post-COVID-19. Using a qualitative and descriptive approach, the experiment aimed to promote critical environmental education and healthy habits. Results indicated active participation by children, increased autonomy, and environmental awareness, showing the garden as an integrative resource linking school, family, and community.
Food educationCommunityHealthBiodiversityA University–School Partnership Model for Sustainability Teacher Training: Integrating School Gardens into Basic Education
2026Yadeneyro de la Cruz Elizondo, Reyna Nirvana Montiel Rodríguez, Rosa María Arias Mota, Nancy Domínguez González, María de los Ángeles Chamorro Zárate · Sustainability · Mexico (Veracruz)
In Veracruz, Mexico, a university-school partnership model for teacher training in integrating school gardens into basic education was evaluated. A mixed-methods design involved a diagnostic survey of 71 teachers and subsequent training workshops for 34 teachers. Results showed high teacher motivation despite limited institutional infrastructure, and training strengthened pedagogical capacities. However, the integration of school gardens into formal curricula remains limited due to structural constraints and insufficient teacher preparation.
Governance failureFood educationCommunityPolicyINFLUENCING FACTORS OF FARMER'S DIGITALIZATION READINESS IN SURAKARTA: AN INTERPRETIVE STRUCTURAL MODELING APPROACH
2026Lusi Handayani, Rifka Atmajaya, Asnawati La Hisi, Risca Metanifa, Najma Arum S. Lessy, Aisyah Yunisa Amir Hamzah, Nissa Rawindadefi, Hendra Okta Randi, Usmina Wonda, Ali Akbar Wahab, Sisilia Dorcelina Sapranim, Refa Andrean Tri P., Maftuh Rahmah Hanifa, Fitriana Riscadewi Warisno, Maria Adriane Bengan, Ina Aplena Marani, Aventus Purnama Dep, Amida Maria Baibaba, Rahmaniar Nur Syahib · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Indonesia (Surakarta)
This study investigated the digitalization readiness of urban horticultural farmers in Surakarta, Indonesia, using Interpretive Structural Modeling and MICMAC analysis with data from 20 key informants. Five principal factors were identified: agricultural technology availability, digital literacy, training and capacity building, institutional support, and government involvement, with government involvement being the dominant driving force. The study proposes four strategic interventions to support digital transformation.
Digital agriculturePolicyCommunityFood educationDiversity of School Gardens: Finding a Partner School Garden
2026Birgitta Goldschmidt · International explorations in outdoor and environmental education · Global
This chapter discusses school garden partnerships between schools in different countries, highlighting how gardening methods vary globally due to geographical, climatic, and traditional factors. Such partnerships can foster international and intercultural understanding, develop communication skills, and promote education for sustainable development by allowing students to identify similarities and differences. The paper suggests that geographically and culturally distant partnerships, especially North-South collaborations, are most effective for global learning despite being challenging.
Food educationCommunityIntegración 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 changeBiodiversityDesigning for Health and Learning: Lessons Learned from a Case Study of the Evidence-Based Health Design Process for a Rooftop Garden at a Danish Social and Healthcare School
2026Ulrika K. Stigsdotter, Lene Lottrup · Buildings · Denmark
This case study from a Danish Social and Health Care School examines the Evidence-Based Health Design in Landscape Architecture (EBHDL) process for a rooftop garden. The garden was designed to promote student health and integrate nature-based teaching. The study identifies lessons learned regarding governance, stakeholder roles, site selection, and the EBHDL model's alignment with construction phases, demonstrating how evidence-based and participatory approaches can structure complex design processes.
HealthFood educationCommunityThe Narratives of Community Garden Beneficiaries of Gawad Kalinga ERH Village: A Social Behavioral Change Evaluation
2026Joshua Eusebio Jr · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Philippines (Bacolod City)
This study assessed the social and behavioral changes of Project Kauswagan, a youth-led community garden initiative in Gawad Kalinga ERH Village, Bacolod City, Philippines, implemented from May 2024 to March 2025. Data from focus group discussions with key community leaders revealed six major themes, including empowerment, formation of community habits, shifts in attitudes toward sharing and collaboration, and positive impact on food security. The project strengthened collaboration and enhanced food accessibility for marginalized groups, particularly women.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceWelfareFood educationDIYEl conuco como estrategia pedagógica para contribuir al rescate de las tradiciones ancestrales en la comunidad indígena Achagua (resguardo Umapo) municipio de Puerto López, Colombia
2026Monica del Pilar Rodriguez Rodriguez, Jorge Luis Triana Riveros, NEWTON NARCISO GOMES · Revista Brasileira de Educação do Campo · Colombia
This study investigated "conuco" (traditional food production) as a pedagogical strategy to rescue ancestral traditions in the Achagua indigenous community of Umapo reserve, Puerto López, Colombia. Facing a historical loss of customs due to settler companies and communities, an ethnographic methodology was implemented, involving intergenerational dialogue between elders and youth, and the creation of a school garden cultivating traditional foods. This agricultural intervention was concluded to be a fundamental educational strategy against acculturation, revitalizing at-risk eating habits, promoting the effective rescue of ancestral traditions, and consolidating the cultural identity of new Achagua generations.
Food educationCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceUrban 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 changeDIYWelfareMenjaga Keindahan Lingkungan dengan Kampung Asri sebagai Model Pemberdayaan Lingkungan
2026Natasya Ainul, Cynthia Eka Violita, Fitri Mas'ula, M. Zidnal Falach, Naili Fatimatuz Zahroh, Rojhaniyatul Islamiyah, Muhammad Ainur Vemas, Jihan Salsabila Maulidil Rohma, M Haudu Ulumudin R, Yayang Niken Almaneha, Azhari Ramadhan, Hilmi Ubaidillah, Maulidatul Qomaria, M Dafa Abiyyu Syafiq, Mu'afi Muslekh, Rangga Dwi C, Ayutah Ryanda Maghfiroh · Nusantara Community Empowerment Review · Indonesia
The "Beautiful Village" program in Sidokepung Village is an environmental empowerment initiative focused on utilizing vacant land and used materials to create a beautiful and productive environment. This program involves active community participation in landscaping, using used bottles and gallon jugs as planting media, and planting ornamental and edible crops like basil, bok choy, and eggplant. Implementation results showed improved environmental aesthetics, availability of household-scale food sources, and increased community awareness of cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
CommunityDIYFood education<b>HORTA ESCOLAR COMO INSTRUMENTO DE EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL: UMA ANÁLISE DOS FUNDAMENTOS PEDAGÓGICOS E DIMENSÕES FORMATIVAS</b>
2026Thiago Correia · INTERNATIONAL INTEGRALIZE SCIENTIFIC · Global
This qualitative bibliographic research investigates the school garden as a pedagogical tool for ecological knowledge and critical individual formation within environmental education. It analyzes theoretical-methodological foundations, discussing school gardens as spaces for non-formal and experiential learning, their interface with the curriculum, and contributions to ecological sensitivity. The research indicates that school gardens serve as fertile pedagogical territories for interdisciplinarity, care, and transforming human-nature relationships.
Food educationCommunityBiodiversityImpact Study of the Community Project in Purok 21, Barangay Mintal, Davao City
2026Matias Jr. Mercado, Glessie Jean Langtad, Martin Corador · International Journal of Sustainability and Advanced Integrated Research · Philippines (Davao City)
This study evaluated the perceived impact and overall success of the Holy Cross of Mintal (HCM, Inc.) community extension program in Purok 21, Mintal, Davao City, Philippines. A convergent parallel mixed-methods design, utilizing surveys from 150 respondents and in-depth interviews with 15 participants, was employed. Findings revealed a very high level of perceived program impact (M = 4.66) and overall success (M = 4.65) across five program dimensions: Education, Livelihood, Feeding, Urban Gardening, and Catechism. All dimensions significantly predicted success, with the Feeding program being particularly impactful, and qualitative results highlighted themes such as spiritual strengthening, improved health, knowledge development, environmental awareness, and economic empowerment.
CommunityFood educationWelfareSchool Gardens in Vanuatu—Promoting Local Traditional Knowledge and Agricultural Resilience
2026Matthias Kowasch, Pierre Metsan, Adeline Mweleul, Helena Tischler · Geo Geography and Environment · Vanuatu
This paper investigates how school gardening contributes to the re-valorization of local knowledge and the decolonization of the educational system in Vanuatu. An empirical study in five secondary schools on Efate and Tanna islands, combined with curriculum analysis and participatory observation, revealed that most students regularly work in school gardens, cultivating various crops using mixed cropping and fallow land. Students are familiar with the yam seasonal calendar, but while sustainability topics are in curricula, discussions of traditional worldviews are lacking. School gardening enhances agricultural resilience, connection to land, kastom, and food sovereignty, leading to recommendations for stronger inclusion of local knowledge, field trips, and collaboration with kastom schools.
Food educationCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeVertebrate Diversity in School Gardens
2026Ina Schanz, Martin Remmele · International explorations in outdoor and environmental education · Global
This chapter addresses the initiation of scientific skills while experiencing vertebrates in school gardens and provides concrete suggestions for proactive action to protect the vertebrate fauna. School gardens offer important refuges for mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish in urban environments, thus promoting the development of species literacy. Species literacy is considered a key predictor for the development of positive attitudes towards nature and nature conservation in the sense of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15 “Life on Land”. Learners develop scientific skills by identifying birds through observation, recording amphibian development at a pond, or experimenting with nesting aids. They can also take a protective role by improving habitats for reptiles when planting hedges or creating cairns.
BiodiversityFood educationCommunity