Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
2530 results(22 / 102)
Rede Carioca de Agricultura Urbana: mudança social, comunicação e cidadania
2024Rodrigo Rossi Morelato · MEDIACIONES · Brazil
This article addresses the communication practices of agroecological-based social movements in Rio de Janeiro, correlating them with theories of communication for social change. Based on extensive participatory research with the Rio de Janeiro Urban Agriculture Network (Rede CAU), it concludes that agroecology is capable of promoting processes of citizenship and social change through popular communication.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceFood educationDes cultures politiques situées à un environnementalisme ordinaire commun dans les jardins partagés
2024Victoria Sachsé · Développement durable et territoires · Italy
This study explored two shared gardens in Rome and Strasbourg using qualitative research (participant observation and interviews) to highlight the diversity of political cultures animating these spaces. The garden in Rome showed a dynamic of public space appropriation, partly in conflict with local institutions, expressing the right to the city. In contrast, the Strasbourg garden revealed a dynamic of alliance between the association and institutions through the creation of a permaculture shared garden.
CommunityPolicyClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceWho's near the local food? A regional proximity analysis of short food supply chain types in southern New England
2024Shawn A. Trivette, Shannon McCarragher · Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems · United States (New England)
This paper examined three types of locally oriented Short Food Supply Chains (SFSCs) in southern New England and their spatial alignment with demographic factors. The findings indicate that pay-as-you-go operations are more prevalent in predominantly White areas and, to some extent, higher-income areas. Box share arrangements (community-supported agricultures) showed stronger associations with educational attainment. The study concludes that local food availability is a systematically uneven phenomenon, varying with both outlet type and social characteristics.
Equity & displacementCSA & TeikeiEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceWelfareThe Role of Social Innovation in Confronting the Challenges of Quarantine during the COVID-19 Period a literature review analysis
2024Mohammed Bouguelaa · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Global
This literature review analyzes the role of social innovation in confronting challenges posed by COVID-19 quarantine measures. Through a systematic review of articles, reports, and case studies, the paper explores the conceptual framework and theoretical perspectives of social innovation. It identifies and analyzes initiatives such as alternative food networks and urban agriculture, highlighting their effectiveness in mitigating adverse effects of quarantine and promoting community resilience.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceHealthWelfareClimate changeMapping seeds of freedom with Red de Huerteros Medellín
2024Paula Restrepo · · Colombia (Medellín)
As part of the Red de Huerteros Medellín (RHM) collective, urban agriculture in Medellín was mapped to identify its features and problems. A main problem found was a poor or non-existent connection between urban farmers and key organizations like seed keepers. Few urban farmers had knowledge about the ecopolitical implications of the seed business, and even fewer obtained seeds from seed keepers or showed consideration for their labor.
Governance failureCommunityFood sovereignty & justicePolicyHeirloom & landraceUrbanization effects on urban vegetable farmers adaptation: Evidence from Ghana
2024Michael Tuffour, George Owusu, Daniel Bruce Sarpong · Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems · Ghana
This study investigated the effects of urbanization on urban vegetable farmers' adaptation in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), Ghana, using an exploratory sequential mixed method. Qualitative data involved 29 farmers from 10 farm sites, and quantitative data involved 251 farmers from 16 farm sites. Changes perceived by farmers included climate, land scarcity, increased population, and lifestyle dynamics, with population increase negatively resulting in polluted streams and farmer evictions due to land scarcity. Farmers adapted by using multiple water sources, intensification, and relocating to cheap lands.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeEconomicsDeterminants of urban household vulnerability to food insecurity in southern Ethiopia
2024Abraham Woru Borku, Abera Uncha Utallo, Thomas Toma Tora · Discover Food · Ethiopia
A mixed-methods study in selected towns in Southern Ethiopia surveyed 310 households to identify determinants of urban household vulnerability to food insecurity. The results indicated that 41.3% of households were highly vulnerable, 48.3% moderately vulnerable, and 10.6% not vulnerable. Significant determinants included household ownership of houses, health status, urban agriculture, socio-cultural practices, asset ownership, age, and average monthly income.
Food sovereignty & justiceEconomicsHealthCan Agroecology Close the Health Disparities Gap for Urban Vulnerable Communities in South Africa?
2024Michael Rudolph, Evans Muchesa · Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir landbouvoorligting/South African journal of agricultural extension · South Africa (Johannesburg)
This article explores the potential of agroecology to address health disparities in urban communities in South Africa, where approximately 34% of Johannesburg households face food insecurity. A transdisciplinary literature review, using secondary data from the University of Johannesburg and Siyakhana Growth and Development, posits that an agroecological approach can effectively address food and nutrition insecurity. The study emphasizes the importance of localized food production, personalized training, and a supportive policy framework for urban farming and agroecology.
HealthFood sovereignty & justiceWelfareCommunityGlobal health and environmental sustainability
2024CHIBUISI FRANCS OGBUKA, NGOZI O IZUCHUKWU, OGWO ELISHA UKO, OGECHI JULIANA OGBODO, OBI VICTORY IJEOMA · World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews · Global
This paper argues for a re-evaluation of current trends in assessing global health and environmental sustainability through the prevalence of diseases and natural resource availability. It suggests that achieving present needs without compromising future generations requires evolutionary and swift transformation in health for all programs, eco-friendly production and consumption, and urban farming. Global health and environmental sustainability should be summarized as the study and application of attaining welfare equity for all people in a sustainable environment.
HealthClimate changeUrban–rural linkageFood sovereignty & justiceDeterminants of adoption of urban agriculture (UA) as climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices and its impact on food security: evidence from Wolaita Sodo city, South Ethiopia
2024Mamush Masha, Elias Bojago, Innocent Ngare · Discover Sustainability · Ethiopia
This study investigated the factors influencing the adoption of urban agriculture (UA) as climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices and its impact on food security in Wolaita Sodo City, South Ethiopia. Data from 384 randomly selected urban households showed that 53.53% adopted UA, with significant differences between adopters and non-adopters in employment, UA attitudes, and household size. A logistic regression model identified family size, home ownership, household head's occupation, UA perceptions, market demand, and access to training as determinants of adoption. Propensity score matching confirmed that UA adoption significantly improved food security by 0.685-fold.
Climate changeFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsUneven Ground
2024Ángeles Donoso Macaya, Kendra Sullivan · · United States (New York City)
This chapter explores the experiences of co-authors in the "Archives in Common (AiC)" project, which aimed to strengthen public humanities infrastructure within and beyond CUNY’s Graduate Center. Conducted across three locations in New York City, the project highlighted institutional norms that fail to adequately support community-led research practices or acknowledge and reward diverse expertise.
Governance failureCommunityPolicyFood sovereignty & justiceGrowing Sustainably: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Urban Horticulture in India
2024P. K. R. Deka, Nibir Pratim Choudhury · Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension Economics & Sociology · India
This article analyzes the challenges and opportunities in urban and peri-urban horticulture in India. It identifies issues such as urbanization encroaching on agricultural land, resource competition, land-use disputes, food security, and environmental sustainability. The paper also explores conventional growing methods like home gardening and community gardens, as well as novel alternatives such as soilless cultures and indoor farming systems.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeEconomicsPublic Engagement in Community Gardens: Communicating to Prepare for a Changing Climate
2024Olivia M. Erskine, Alexa J. Lamm, Kevan W. Lamm, Catherine E. Sanders · Journal of Applied Communications · United States
A study in the United States analyzed U.S. adults' motivations for engaging in community gardens and the perceived importance of climate-smart adaptations. Respondents primarily engaged in community gardens for health and social reasons and assigned some level of importance to climate-smart adaptations. Future research should explore the impact of rurality, food accessibility, and socioeconomic status on reasons for engagement and the associated importance of climate-smart adaptations.
CommunityClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceHealthUrban horticulture for sustainable living
2024Riya Mittal, Juhi Sharma · International Journal of Research in Agronomy · Global
This review states that urban horticulture is essential for addressing food security, urban growth, and environmental issues. It examined techniques such as vertical gardening, rooftop gardens, protected cultivation, and Dutch grow buckets, showing they optimize space, reduce resource use, and enhance crop yields. These methods conserve water, increase biodiversity, and enable year-round production.
Climate changeBiodiversityFood sovereignty & justiceDIYImplementasi Teknologi Tepat Guna Alat Penyiraman Otomatis Sebagai Penunjang Ketahanan Pangan Keluarga Berbasis Pertanian Urban
2024Anggi Indah Yuliana, Achmad Agus Athok Miftachuddin, Rohmat Hidayat, Rindhi Dwi Fibrianti, Erfan Nur Huda, Ziyyana Fitra, Yoga Firmansya · Jumat Informatika Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat · Indonesia
An urban farming support program in the Murukan village community in Indonesia used the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) method to design, manufacture, and implement an automatic watering tool. The program resulted in a 50% improvement in participants' basic knowledge, a 60% improvement in practical abilities, and a 70% improvement in technical skills. Additionally, participant confidence improved by 40%, productivity by 55%, and tool usage efficiency by 65%.
DIYFood sovereignty & justiceFood educationDigital agricultureUrban farming and food supply: A comparative review of USA and African cities
2024Adekunle Stephen Toromade, Deborah Aanuoluwa Soyombo, Eseoghene Kupa, Tochukwu Ignatius Ijomah · International Journal of Advanced Economics · United States
This comparative review examines urban farming dynamics and its impact on food supply in the United States and African cities. It explores challenges and opportunities, considering factors such as infrastructure, socio-economic conditions, and agricultural practices in both regions. The review highlights policies and technological advancements in the USA, while discussing rapid urbanization and limited resources as challenges in African contexts.
Food sovereignty & justicePolicyEconomicsCommunityDigital agricultureCSA & TeikeiUsing visual methods to map green infrastructure for a sustainable food economy in Letchworth Garden City
2024Amélie André · · United Kingdom
This case study of Letchworth Garden City examined the interplay between the town's layout, social practices, and governance supporting a local sustainable food economy. Food mapping and an ethnographical approach showed how Letchworth's masterplan provides a backbone for alternative food infrastructure, though the edible landscape is not always visible or effective for residents. Discussions with experts also pointed to a gap in coordination among key local stakeholders, which would be beneficial for improving the local urban food strategy.
Governance failureCommunityPolicyEconomicsFood sovereignty & justicePemberdayaan Generasi Muda Kota Banjarmasin pada Kegiatan Urban Farming dengan Metode Hidroponik Sistem Wick
2024Fuzi Maulana Ash’ari, Gt. Khairun Ni’mah, Yarna Hasiani, Ilhamiyah · Jurnal Abdimas Mahakam · Indonesia (Banjarmasin)
This community service activity was conducted for 11th-grade high school students at SMAS PGRI 1 in Banjarmasin City, Indonesia. The activity consisted of delivering material, discussions, introducing tools and materials for the hydroponic wick system, and practical demonstrations. The activity aimed to increase the knowledge of young people in Banjarmasin City regarding urban farming, especially cultivation using the hydroponic wick system.
Food educationFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityPeri-urban agriculture and household food and nutrition security around Eldoret, Kenya
2024Ivica Petríková, Melvine Anyango Otieno, Gertrude Were, Mahmoud Eltholth, Ana Rodriguez‐Mateos, Seeromanie Harding, Victoria Hall Morán, Odipo Osano, Jennifer Cole · Food Security · Kenya
This study investigated the links between peri-urban households' engagement in agriculture, their dietary behavior, and their children's nutrition outcomes around Eldoret, Kenya. Survey data collected from 518 households indicated that peri-urban households involved in agriculture, particularly crop growing and sales, had more diverse and nutritious diets than non-engaged households. However, a significant improvement in children’s health outcomes in these households was observed only when coupled with improved water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions.
Limited or null effectPeri-urban agricultureHealthFood sovereignty & justiceExploring school food provision programs and links to local foods in Pacific Island countries
2024J. Perry, Bridget Horsey, J. Raneri, Danny Hunter, Scott O'Connor, M. Hyland-Wood, Elodie Casey, Sarah Burkhart · Proceedings of The Nutrition Society · Oceania
A scoping study was conducted in Pacific Island countries to understand school food activities and their links to local agriculture, covering 22 countries through a literature review (2007-2022) and interviews with 30 key stakeholders from 15 countries. Diverse activities were identified, including school feeding programs (16) and school garden programs (12), with varying links to local agriculture. Challenges in linking local agriculture to school food provision were reported for 17 activities, with common issues including limited funding, inflation, Covid-19, and inadequate produce supply for program scale.
Food educationCommunityHealthEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceAgricultura urbana bajo los principios IAR- FAO para contrarrestar el COVID-19
2024Universidad Politécnica Salesiana (Ecuador), Fredi Portilla Farfán, María José Quizhpi Pintado, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana (Ecuador), Tania Alexandra Sarango Guamán, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana (Ecuador) · · Global
The COVID-19 pandemic caused an economic crisis, endangering global food and nutritional security, particularly in the authors' country due to isolation-induced deterioration of essential goods and services. This crisis incentivized people to promote urban agriculture activities, adapting home spaces for growing fruits and vegetables as a form of self-sufficiency during the pandemic.
DIYFood sovereignty & justiceHealthWelfarePengembangan Masyarakat Melalui Program Urban Farming di Kelurahan Kutisari, Kota Surabaya
2024Dini Ayu Triwahyuni, Agief Julio Pratama, Tri Budiarto · AGRIEKSTENSIA · Indonesia (Surabaya)
This research aimed to describe the internal and external factors influencing the development of urban farming communities in Kutisari Village, Surabaya City. A mixed-methods research approach collected data through observation, interviews, documentation, questionnaires, and literature studies. Research results indicated that internal factors included a middle education level, with most community members being male private employees aged 40-49. External factors regarding access to information and accountability were in a high category, while community participation was in a medium category.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsPlacing community supported agriculture in local food systems
2024Jairus Rossi, Tim Woods · International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability · United States
This study examined the perceived links between Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) and local food systems (LFSs) among consumers in 13 communities in the Southeastern United States, using survey responses. It found that residents were more aware of CSA if they knew about other direct markets or were exposed to local food campaigns. Consumers also evaluated CSA performance more positively if they had similar evaluations of direct markets and experience with on-farm activities, with these patterns varying by location.
CSA & TeikeiCommunityEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceCultivating change: Exploring policies, challenges, and solutions to support city region food systems development in six European countries
2024Ann-Kristin Steines, Michele D’Ostuni, Anna Wissman, Kathrin Specht, Chiara Iodice, Runrid Fox-Kämper, Francesco Monticone, Isabella Righini, Véronique Saint-Gès, Antonella Samoggia, Francesco Orsini · Cities · Europe
This research addressed international and national policies, as well as related constraints and challenges affecting City Region Food System (CRFS) development in six European countries. Data was collected through desktop research, stakeholder interviews, and a workshop. The study found that planning laws restrict possibilities for food production in cities, and legal frameworks prevent the marketing and sale of food produced by non-commercial actors or informal farmers. It also identified a need to expand vocational training in the agricultural sector.
Governance failurePolicyUrban–rural linkageFood sovereignty & justiceModelación de ecuaciones estructurales aplicada al estudio de Agricultura Apoyada por Comunidades (AAC) ubicadas en la región Sudeste de Brasil
2024Gustavo Alves de Melo, Luiz Gonzaga de Castro Júnior, Eduardo Gomes Carvalho, Maria Gabriela Mendonça Peixoto, Samuel Borges Barbosa, Patrícia Guarnieri dos Santos, André Luiz Marques Serrano, Lucas Oliveira Gomes Ferreira, José Baltazar Salgueirinho Osório de Andrade Guerra · Magazine Portal Bibliotech Digital (Universidad Nacional de Colombia) · Brazil
This descriptive, quantitative study investigated the relationship between various Communities Supported Agriculture (CSA) variables in Southeastern Brazil using Structural Equation Modeling. The study confirmed that socioeconomic characteristics positively influence CSAs’ performance. However, limitations were identified regarding the data collection method and difficulties imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Methodological critiqueCSA & TeikeiEconomicsFood sovereignty & justice