Research & reports

Sheetal Patil, Simi John, Pooja Sagar, Narmada A. Khare, Kruthika Ganesh · · India

This book explores the integration of regenerative urban agriculture within sustainable cityscapes, using the IIHS Kengeri Campus in India as a case study. The campus functions as a 'living lab' for sustainable soil and water management, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, and urban food production. By experimenting with interdisciplinary approaches, the book highlights innovative models for food and water security in rapidly urbanizing environments.

A.R. Taufiq Satria Azhar, Irnawaty Idrus, Citra Amalia Amal, Muhammad Syarif, A. Syahriyunita Syahruddin, Siti Fuadillah A. Amin · Journal of Muhammadiyah’s Application Technology · Indonesia

This study explored the application of biophilic architecture concepts in the design of a hybrid library in North Luwu Regency, Indonesia. A descriptive comparative method, using literature review and case analysis, identified biophilic design elements such as natural materials, natural lighting, and cross-ventilation. The research found that the hybrid library fully implemented biophilic concepts, particularly in specific areas like reading rooms, lobbies, and rooftop gardens.

Desie Andreastuti, Bimantara Nur Alim · Journal Ilmu Sosial Politik dan Pemerintahan · Indonesia (Kutai Kartanegara)

This study analyzed urban farming as an innovative strategy in public management in Kutai Kartanegara. Using a qualitative methodology based on a literature review, it identified the opportunities, challenges, and impacts of urban farming implementation. The findings indicate that policy support, training, and stakeholder involvement are key to success, demonstrating a collaborative model among government, community, and the private sector to achieve social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

Tresia Manalu, Nadya Stefania Hutauruk, Sri Rahayu Sinaga, Riza Indriani · Jurnal Ecoment Global · Indonesia (Medan)

This descriptive qualitative study analyzed external factors affecting the Rumah Anggur Ardo nursery business in Medan, Indonesia, using PESTEL and Porter's Five Forces frameworks. Findings indicate a relatively favorable competitive environment, with urban farming as a hobby presenting a main opportunity. However, significant challenges include high rainfall damaging seedlings and the absence of material support from the government.

Erwin 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.

An The Huynh, Ho Bich Lien, Đức Đạt Đức Nguyễn, Đào Minh Trung · Tạp chí Khoa học Đại học Công Thương. · Vietnam

A study in Tan Uyen City, Binh Duong Province, assessed the potential for reusing treated domestic wastewater for urban agriculture. Data from the city's wastewater treatment system showed high efficiency, with COD reduced by 94.49% and BOD5 by 97.1%. The treated water met QCVN 39:2011/BTNMT requirements and is suitable for irrigating landscape greenery, vegetables, or short-term industrial crops.

Ghana Shyam Yurembam, Malay Pramanik, Ranjana Devi Yengkhom, L. Hemochandra, Bivek Chakma, Deepak Jhajharia, G. T. Patle · Journal of Agricultural Engineering (India) · Asia

This systematic review examined urban farming systems in South and Southeast Asian countries to address research gaps in technology adoption, costs, environmental benefits, and policy. Using the PRISMA method and Scopus/Web of Science databases, the review found that urban farming contributes to sustainability by reducing environmental impacts, improving water usage, and managing waste. It also noted that energy-efficient technologies and automation can decrease carbon emissions and optimize land use for increased yields, fostering self-reliant food systems.

Nana Kariada Tri Martuti, Muh Sholeh, Rossi Prabowo, Inaya Sari Melati · ABDIMAS UNWAHAS · Indonesia (Semarang)

In Tambakrejo Village, Semarang City, Indonesia, a challenge exists due to the low human resource capacity in managing integrated urban farming. This program aims to enhance partners' capacity to develop an integrated farming system combining urban farming and aquaculture. As a result of the activities, the Tambakrejo farmer group received facilities such as rainwater harvesting installations, vertical gardens, various vegetable seeds, and compost, along with training on strengthening farmer group institutions and technological innovation in vegetable and fish cultivation through aquaponics.

Yuanchao Hu, Prajal Pradhan, Haoran Zhang, Zhen Wang, Qianyuan Huang, Qiqi Jia, Xihong Lian, Chao Xu, Rui Yang, Yuxi Tian, Zhibang Xu, Limin Jiao, Jürgen P. Kropp · Resources Environment and Sustainability · China

This study constructed a new dataset of urban productive spaces for 124 large Chinese cities to assess the potential of urban agriculture. It found that approximately 30% of urban vegetable demand could be met by utilizing spaces such as rooftops and open areas. However, urban agriculture showed little potential for greenhouse gas emission mitigation, with an average intensity (0.30 kgCO2e/kg) similar to traditional agriculture (0.31 kgCO2e/kg).

Adi Mahmud Jaya Marindra, Dwi Surya Santaki, Deny Kurniawan, Ferdian Ilham Maulana, Raihan Adji Widjaksana, Muhammad Irham Amzari, Pandu Jati Bayu Saputra, Chenny Azalia Eka Putri Minggus, Rafi Fauzan · Jurdimas (Jurnal Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat) Royal · Indonesia (Balikpapan)

This project addressed power outages affecting hydroponic gardens of the Women Farmers Group (KWT) Sepinggan Raya in Balikpapan, Indonesia, by implementing a solar-powered water pump and a water quality monitoring system. The program included a survey, system installation, and training. Results indicate that the system improves hydroponic productivity and reduces operational costs previously dependent on the national electricity grid, also empowering the local women's group with renewable energy knowledge.

Zih‐Ee Lin, Yin-Chi Lin, Mengshan Lee, Pei-Te Chiueh, Chun-Wei Wu, Yu-Sen Chang · Sustainable Environment Research · Taiwan (Taipei)

This 2025 study proposed an integrated framework for urban agriculture planning, incorporating land use classification, design scenarios, and quantitative environmental impact assessment. Applied to Taipei, Taiwan, the framework identified 9.4% of the city's area as potential urban agriculture sites, with half being small ground plots. The analysis of 16 scenarios revealed trade-offs, such as food crops enhancing supply versus ornamental plants mitigating the urban heat island effect.

Azka Madihah, Aliifah Ghassanii · Atlantis highlights in social sciences, education and humanities/Atlantis Highlights in Social Sciences, Education and Humanities · Asia

This study examined eco-urban diplomacy through urban farming and environmental horticulture in Jakarta-Tokyo and Surabaya-Kitakyushu sister-city partnerships. Jakarta-Tokyo collaboration promoted participatory urban farming and rooftop greening, raising Tokyo's vegetable self-sufficiency from 4.27% to a potential 11.73%. Surabaya-Kitakyushu cooperation achieved a threefold mangrove expansion and 20% waste reduction, but financial constraints, communication gaps, and land insecurity persist, risking exclusion of marginalized groups.

Khati Malo, Dharmendra Singh Lagoriya, Rakesh Kumar, Anil Bhushan, Sandeep Chopra, R. K. Samnotra, Sumiya Afreen · Ecology Environment and Conservation · India

This review explores various urban farming models as sustainable solutions to address food insecurity, malnutrition, and environmental degradation, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions like India. It examines the role of urban agriculture, through both traditional systems (e.g., kitchen gardens, rooftop and community gardens) and modern approaches (e.g., hydroponics, aeroponics, vertical farming), in building resilient food systems, and the importance of combining traditional practices with technological innovations and supportive governance. Challenges such as infrastructure limitations, policy gaps, and lack of technical expertise are also faced.

Pius Sugeng Prasetyo, Theresia Gunawan · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Indonesia (Bandung)

The Buruan SAE initiative in Bandung, Indonesia, integrates indigenous Sundanese practices with modern urban farming to strengthen urban food systems. This community-driven program uses organic methods and waste recycling, showing contributions to food security, improved nutrition, economic opportunities, and environmental benefits like reduced carbon footprints and enhanced biodiversity. The initiative also supports local businesses by supplying fresh produce.

Thi Tuyet To, Thi Ngoc Anh Tran · Advances in Modern Agriculture · Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City)

This review paper discussed leveraging and combining resources for sustainable urban agriculture development in major Vietnamese cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City. It synthesized, analyzed, and evaluated the individual effects and collaborative interactions of diverse resources with urban development, presenting the main benefits and challenges in optimizing resource utilization. Strategies for establishing a sustainable, adaptable, and efficient urban agricultural system were also suggested.

Sitong Liu, Meili Feng, Linjun Xie, Faith Ka Shun Chan · Nature-Based Solutions · China

This study systematically reviewed 464 global publications, including 85 focused on China, to address gaps in understanding urban green infrastructure (UGI) for carbon neutrality. It categorized UGI's carbon mitigation mechanisms and aligned them with quantification methods across carbon sequestration, thermal regulation, and urban agriculture, highlighting strengths and limitations. The research identified critical factors influencing mitigation outcomes, assessed methodological trade-offs, and explored UGI-related carbon initiatives in China, offering policy recommendations.

Y. Shukla, RC Jain, Saket Dubey, Sarat Sekhar Bora, Subrat Kumar Senapati, Neetu Saini · International Journal of Environment and Climate Change · India

This review investigated how Indian agriculture is affected by climate change and adaptation strategies. Climate change causes extreme weather events and rising temperatures, leading to crop heat stress and reduced yields. Initiatives such as precision farming, urban food production, and soil conservation support resource recycling and food security, concluding that context-specific climate-smart agricultural technologies are essential for smallholder resilience and food security.

Mahsa Khanpoor Siahdarka, Mohammad Reza Masnavi · Energy Nexus · Asia

A mixed-method study in Tehran's District 10 investigated the potential of community gardens to address environmental and social challenges. Envi-Met® simulations showed CO₂ reductions of 77.74 mg/m³ around broadleaf trees and 84.37 mg/m³ with native grasses and phytoremediation plants, a 6.43°C reduction in mean radiant temperature, and a 7% increase in relative humidity. Social analyses revealed community preferences and gendered trends influencing garden design and plot arrangements.

Stefani Natalia Sabatini, Paulus Bawole, Haryati Bawole Sutanto · Jurnal Atma Inovasia · Indonesia (Yogyakarta)

This study discusses assistance provided to the Migunani Farmer Group in Cokrodirjan, Yogyakarta City, regarding household wastewater management for urban agriculture development. The assistance included education on wastewater management, education and simulation of urine processing into liquid fertilizer, and a workshop on simple garden reactor creation. While education and simulation activities increased the farmer group's capacity, the construction of the garden wastewater treatment reactor was hindered by difficulties in adjusting the location of the wastewater source.

Rupanagudi Unesha Fareq · AGRIBIO INNOVATIONS · India

This paper discusses urban rooftop farming in India as an effective solution to declining agricultural land and rising food demand due to rapid population growth and urbanization. Rooftop farming, a type of urban agriculture utilizing unused spaces, can improve environmental stress, increase urban resilience, and produce nutritious food. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted its importance for sustainable urban food systems and local food production.

Jyotsana Agarwala · · India

This case study examines the potential of rooftop organic farming and novel supply chain tactics in Badlapur, Maharashtra, India. It evaluates a rooftop organic farming initiative, assessing elements like input procurement, farming methods, logistics, and technological innovations. Research indicates that decentralized food production, such as rooftop gardening, diminishes reliance on rural agriculture, lowers carbon emissions, and improves urban food sovereignty. The study also identifies obstacles including scalability, standardization, legal impediments, and insufficient customer awareness.

Muhammad Fadeli, Tri Prasetijowati, Julyanto Ekantoro · Jurnal Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat UBJ · Indonesia (Surabaya)

This ecopreneurship program for university students at Universitas Bhayangkara Surabaya integrated urban farming practices with green business innovation by utilizing unused campus land for cultivating productive crops. The program enhanced ecological awareness, entrepreneurial skills, and the development of partnership networks with various stakeholders. Its implementation results indicated that urban farming ecopreneurship has significant potential to be replicated and developed as an innovative and contextual learning model with integrated social, economic, and ecological impacts.

Henri P. Uranus, Reinhard Pinontoan, Dwi H. Yulian, Rianto Mangunsong · Springer Link (Chiba Institute of Technology) · Indonesia

This paper presents the design and implementation of an off-grid solar power system for rooftop farming in Tangerang, Indonesia. The system, monitored via an IoT-based data logger, showed stable operation with an average daily energy production of 1.6 kWh, sufficient for 2 hydroponic and 1 aquaponic system's 0.9 kWh daily load during the rainy season. The system reduces carbon emissions by 313.7 kg per year compared to coal-based grid power.

T. JHANSI, Kamaruddin Rani, T. S. Swapna · ˜The œBioscan. · India (Tenali)

This thesis explores the strategy of transforming derelict spaces in Tenali into green urban landscapes for sustainable urban regeneration. The study aims to identify underutilized areas and propose their redevelopment into green urban landscapes such as parks, community gardens, and recreational zones, to enhance the city's ecological footprint, social cohesion, and urban aesthetics. It will provide a framework for transforming these spaces through a comprehensive analysis of existing derelict sites, green space design principles, community involvement strategies, and sustainable urban design approaches.

Yukarie Ayu Wulandari, Ade Sumiahadi, Dirgahani Putri, Helfi Gustia, Rosdiana · Jurnal AGROSAINS dan TEKNOLOGI · Indonesia (Jakarta)

This study, conducted from March to June 2025 in East Jakarta, investigated heavy metal contamination levels in mustard greens grown through urban agriculture. Mustard green samples were collected from five sub-districts, and lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) content was measured. Results showed that Cd absorption in mustard greens was very low, well below national and international maximum standards, but Pb absorption exceeded both national (0.5 ppm) and international (0.3 ppm) maximum permissible standards. No strong correlation was found between air quality and Cd or Pb content in the mustard greens.