Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
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Insect Biodiversity: Drawing with Children as Approach to the World of Garden Insects
2026Marcia Eugenio-Gozalbo, Inés Ortega-Cubero, Rafael Suárez-López · International explorations in outdoor and environmental education · Spain (Soria)
This chapter describes an educational project conducted with 8-year-old children in the Organic Learning Garden of the Faculty of Education of Soria, University of Valladolid, Spain. The project aimed to promote detailed observation and learning about insect morphology and diversity through scientific drawing. The use of school gardens is proposed to foster children's knowledge and appreciation of insect biodiversity.
Food educationBiodiversityPollinatorsCommunity gardens as locally embedded nature-based solutions: a comparative study of Budapest and Turin
2026Luca Battisti, Adrienne Csizmady, Federico Cuomo, Luca Kristóf, Boldizsár Megyesi · Sustainability Science Practice and Policy · Hungary (Budapest)
This study examined how community gardens in Budapest and Turin function as locally embedded nature-based solutions (NbS) through the everyday practices of urban residents. Based on a qualitative analysis of 47 semi-structured interviews conducted in five gardens in Budapest and two in Turin, findings showed that gardeners practice NbS-aligned approaches. Socially, they foster well-being, inclusion, and community cohesion; technically, they adapt to resource constraints through low-tech experimentation and collaborative problem-solving; and ecologically, they support biodiversity, soil regeneration, and microclimate regulation through organic cultivation and composting.
CommunityBiodiversityCompostOrganic cycleHealthPolicyUrban Gardening in der Sozialen Arbeit und in Bildungseinrichtungen – ein Leitfaden aus dem Wassermelonengarten
2026Juliane Forßmann · OPUS der Technischen Hochschule Augsburg · Global
This guideline extracts successful urban gardening strategies and effective pedagogical interventions from a three-year social community garden project, "Wassermelonengarten," located on the grounds of a family collective accommodation for refugees. The garden served as a laboratory for social work students and residents to explore simple, cost-effective urban gardening techniques and group relationship and project design, aiming to improve the quality of life for all involved. The guideline is intended as a resource for those developing urban gardening projects in social work and educational settings, focusing on strengthening social cohesion and preserving healthy soils and biodiversity.
CommunityFood educationWelfareBiodiversityGreen Islands in the City: Allotment Gardens as Urban Biofilters and Cooling Spaces in Warsaw, Poland
2026Marta Melon, Tomasz Dzieduszyński, Piotr Sikorski, Beata Joanna Gawryszewska, Maciej Lasocki, Arkadiusz Przybysz · Sustainability · Poland (Warsaw)
The capacity of Family Allotment Gardens (FAGs) in Warsaw, Poland, to provide air-pollution filtration and microclimate regulation was quantified. Particulate matter, air temperature, and relative humidity were measured inside and outside three allotment complexes in autumn 2023. Results showed a moderate reduction in PM concentrations inside gardens (by about 2 µg/m³) and slightly higher humidity (2.1%). However, the cooling effect was weak (less than 0.3 °C), indicating a limited spatial range under autumn conditions.
Limited or null effectClimate changeCommunityBiodiversityRevisiting the secret garden: (de)territorialising student transience through stories from a university garden
2026Kirsten Lambert, Janene Sproul · International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education · Global
This research explored the experiences of university students participating in a university community garden project during and after the Covid-19 pandemic, using qualitative semi-structured interviews. The study found that the garden became a home for transient and often marginalized students by decentering normative conceptions of university space. It also highlights that community gardens offer divergent spaces for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ students.
CommunityFood educationBiodiversityWelfareRural–Urban Differences in Odonata Diversity and Population Dynamics across Agricultural Landscapes of the Eastern Gangetic Plains
2026Sneha Kumari Bharati, A. Pattanayak, Sidh Nath Prasad Yadav ‘Deen’ · Asian Journal of Environment & Ecology · Global
This study compared odonate diversity and population dynamics in rural (Manpur) and urban (Gaya city) agricultural landscapes of the Eastern Gangetic Plains from March 2022 to February 2024. The rural landscape supported 24 odonate species, while the urban landscape supported 17, showing only moderate similarity (SSI = 0.571) between the two assemblages. This indicates a lower diversity of odonates in urban agricultural areas compared to rural ones.
Environmental trade-offsBiodiversityUrban–rural linkagePhytoremediation potential of selected herbaceous species in vertical gardens for urban air pollution mitigation and integration with the EU Emissions Trading System
2026Agnieszka Klucznik-Tӧrő · Economics and Environment · Europe
This research investigated whether vertical gardens can effectively reduce urban air pollution, using Cracow as an example. Field experimentation, biochemical and laboratory studies, statistical analysis, and quantitative techniques were applied using plant species such as fennel spike, lemon balm, thyme, chives, dill, and common ivy. The analysis proved that a significant level of phytoremediation of air pollutants can be achieved with vertical gardens.
BiodiversityHealthClimate changeEquity-oriented GIS-MCDA mapping of urban rooftops for green roofs and photovoltaic systems: competition and synergies in Padua, Italy
2026Abdullah Ahmadi, Daniele Codato, Francesca Peroni, Massimo De Marchi · Urban Climate · Italy (Padua)
The Rooftops for Equity and Sustainability (RT4ES) model, a GIS-based multi-criteria decision analysis, was applied to Padua, Italy, to map suitable urban rooftops for green roofs and photovoltaic systems. The model identified 11.67 km² of suitable rooftops across 29,493 buildings, with rooftop greening offering 10.94 km² of additional vegetated surfaces and rooftop PVs potentially generating 302% of municipal household electricity. RT4ES prioritizes underserved neighborhoods by integrating social and environmental vulnerability.
CommunityClimate changeBiodiversityPolicyEdible architecture: seasonal green intervention through atmospheric design of tropical growing spaces
2026F. X. Teddy Badai Samodra, Rizky Nathania, Triono Bagus Saputro, Ike Phiri, Seonghwan Yoon · Frontiers in Built Environment · Global
This study proposed the concept of edible architecture, using plants as architectural elements for spatial flexibility, to address reduced green spaces and increased carbon footprints from urbanization. Through literature reviews, secondary data, location analysis, and design exploration with study models, it suggests that a refitable approach to edible landscapes allows modification based on needs and seasons, creating dynamic spaces. Integrating atmospheric design could lead to potential annual energy savings of 67,500 kWh/year in roof-based structures.
Climate changeUrban–rural linkageBiodiversityBloom Finder: A Smart Flower Recommendation System Using Machine Learning
2026Chaudhari Gunjan, Thakare S. W · International Scientific Journal of Engineering and Management · Global
Bloom Finder is an intelligent decision-support system designed to assist users in selecting suitable flower species based on environmental and personal preferences. This system integrates personalized flower care tips, optimized fertilizer guidance, and an expanded range of flower categories. Leveraging IoT-enabled sensors and machine learning algorithms, it provides precise, data-driven recommendations by continuously monitoring environmental parameters such as soil pH, moisture, rainfall, temperature, humidity, and light intensity.
Digital agricultureBiodiversityDIYEnvironmental and Social Relationship Changes Through Self-Governance Transition in a Rooftop Community Garden of Senior Residential Living Lab
2026YeunSook Lee, Jaehyun Park, Yumi Hwang · Journal of the Korean housing association · South Korea
A longitudinal qualitative case study in a South Korean senior public rental housing community examined the first transition to self-governance in a rooftop community garden. The transition led to ecological and sensory degradation, including disrupted ecological rhythm and reduced olfactory comfort, and social fragmentation with disputes and leadership frictions. These findings revealed limits of participation-heavy models without codified rules or procedural safeguards, indicating that effective self-governance requires visible rules, procedural fairness, embedded learning, and mediation structures.
Governance failureCommunityElderlyBiodiversityCarbon gardens: A nature-based approach for climate change mitigation and sustainable landscapes
2026Farooq Ahmad Khan, Faheemullah Khan, Sumati Narayan, Mohammad Amir, Zaffar Mahdi Dar · International Journal of Research in Agronomy · Global
This review synthesizes the concept, design principles, carbon sequestration mechanisms, storage potential, and environmental benefits of carbon gardens, which are multifunctional landscapes designed to maximize carbon sequestration and deliver a wide range of ecosystem services. The article highlights their application in urban and rural landscapes and their integration with carbon-negative farming through practices such as biochar use and compost recycling. It also discusses key challenges related to carbon measurement, establishment costs, land availability, and long-term management.
Governance failureClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceBiodiversityCompostRagamuffin Geographies: A Critical View of Informal Green Spaces Against Formality in Chinese Cities
2026S Wang · Advances in Economics Management and Political Sciences · China
This qualitative literature review examines informal green spaces (IGS) in Chinese cities, contrasting them with formal, hyper-managed landscapes. The study finds that while formal lawns incur high financial maintenance burdens and lower biodiversity, IGS, including spontaneous urban wilderness and community gardens, are often cleared despite offering higher biodiversity and zero maintenance costs. The research highlights a governance dilemma where the prioritization of neatness over ecology leads to the removal of IGS, which support psychological place attachment and spatial justice for marginalized groups.
Governance failureCommunityPolicyBiodiversityEconomicsWelfareCompanion Planting as Functional Diversity
2026Svenja Baumgartinger · International explorations in outdoor and environmental education · Global
Companion planting is a natural gardening practice where crops are grown together to support each other's growth and foster relationships within a larger network of organisms. This practice contributes to biodiversity by supporting natural processes in the garden. Designing school gardens as companion planting gardens can allow students to experience biodiversity and learn about organism interactions.
BiodiversityFood educationDIYBiodiversity Monitoring in Food Forests
2026Jana Marion Böhme · PubData · Europe
This study investigated the current state and professionality of biodiversity monitoring in food forest projects and influencing social-ecological factors through an online survey and interviews with German and Dutch experts. It found heterogeneous characteristics and professionality levels in monitoring activities, primarily due to context factors like actors, governance systems, and socio-economic settings. The professionality of monitoring depended on volunteer and expert availability and funding, indicating a lack of integrated, standardized, and systematic monitoring concepts and institutionalization.
Governance failureBiodiversityCommunityPolicyEconomicsIntegrating Biophilic Design and Productive Green Infrastructure as Urban Renewal Strategy for Mixed Use Development in Lagos Island
2026F. I. Alagbe, B. J. Adewumi, Mathew Dayomi, O. A. Ibitoye · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Nigeria (Lagos)
This study investigated the integration of biophilic design and productive green infrastructure (PGI) in mixed-use developments on Lagos Island, Nigeria, as an urban renewal strategy. Data from 303 architects, urban planners, and real estate developers revealed that while ecological regeneration opportunities exist, the area faces limitations from high density and inadequate infrastructure. Respondents showed moderate to high awareness of biophilic principles, and PGI incorporation was linked to perceived gains in social interaction, biodiversity, and economic value.
CommunityBiodiversityPolicyPeri-urban agricultureThe potential use of behavioural bioassays as a first-tier approach for screening urban soil biodiversity: a pilot study
2026Lorenzo Federico, Valeria Tatangelo, Francesca Pittino, Claudia Russo, Emanuele Vegini, Sandra Citterio, Andrea Franzetti, Sara Villa · Urban Ecosystems · Europe
This pilot study investigated the use of behavioral bioassays as screening indicators for invertebrate and bacterial biodiversity in three urban soils in Europe. While model organisms' behavioral responses consistently aligned with reductions in invertebrate biodiversity, these changes did not emerge from microbial analysis. The findings support behavioral bioassays combined with faunal diversity assessments as a first-tier screening tool for urban soil health, but suggest further investigation is needed for links with microbial diversity.
BiodiversityClimate changeDecolonizing the Narrative of Indigenous Food Sovereignty: A Scoping Review
2026Ines Sebai, G. Berron Cadenas, C. Furgal, A. Argumedo, T. Delormier · Current Developments in Nutrition · Global
This scoping review explores Indigenous food sovereignty (IFS) as a decolonizing framework grounded in Indigenous cultural, spiritual, and ecological values. By synthesizing existing literature, the review identifies core IFS principles such as community governance, revitalization of traditional practices, and respectful environmental relationships. Examples like community gardens and traditional hunting illustrate how Indigenous communities adapt these principles to foster cultural renewal and sustainability. The findings emphasize the need for policy advocacy and support for Indigenous rights, including land restoration and protection of traditional knowledge.
Food sovereignty & justiceCommunityBiodiversityHeirloom & landraceAdvancing Resilient Biodiversity through Outreach, Repair, Education, Teamwork, Unity and Mentorship
2026Isaiah Sawyer, Reginald Andre, Yotam Shanun, Brendan Casal · Journal of International Crisis and Risk Communication Research · United States
This project, in partnership with the UCF Arboretum in the United States, involved activities such as clearing invasive vines, weeding and remulching beds in a community garden, and documenting local biodiversity across campus areas. Participants documented their service work through a culture audit to analyze the project's impact and leadership strategies. These activities contributed to building leadership skills, analytical tools, and a deeper sense of ownership over the campus's natural beauty.
CommunityBiodiversityFood education空き地を活用したコミュニティガーデンの価値とその創出要因の解明
2025· 日本建築学会計画系論文集 90巻832号 pp.1219-1230 · Japan
A paper clarifying the value of community gardens created on vacant land and the factors that generate that value; focusing on intergenerational exchange and collaborative activity, it analyzes the effects of reusing vacant spaces in complexes and neighborhoods on local community.
CommunityPolicyBiodiversityUrban agriculture in a changing world: a thematic review of global trends, innovations, governance, and pathways to sustainability
2025· Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems · Global
A thematic review synthesising global trends, innovations, governance frameworks and pathways to sustainability in urban agriculture, mapping the field's current state and future directions including citizen participation, policy support and environmental challenges.
CommunityOrganic cycleBiodiversityPolicyCowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) landraces in Mozambique and neighbouring Southern African countries harbour genetic loci with potential for climate adaptation
2025Macharia M.W., Caproni L., Solemanegy M., Takele R., Chiulele R.M., Munisse P., Amane M., Pè M.E., Buizza R., Dell'Acqua M. · Communications Biology 8:834 · Africa
Genotypes 389 cowpea accessions (mostly landraces) from Southern Africa and identifies 36 genomic loci linked to local climate adaptation, highlighting the breeding value of farmer-conserved resources.
Heirloom & landraceBiodiversityHealthDistinct Socio-Ecological Drivers Shape the Diversity of Plants, Birds, and Lepidopterans in Chicago Community Gardens
2025Domanus A., Smith A., Roberts M., Schnorenberg R., Doane M., Minor E. · Cities and the Environment (CATE), 17(2):9 · United States (Chicago)
A study of 24 community gardens in Chicago measuring not only cultivated crops but also spontaneous (wild/native) plants, birds, butterflies and bees. Gardens supported many spontaneous plant species (mean 8.4 per garden) alongside crops, which underpinned diverse fauna (18 bird species, 13 bee genera, 10 lepidopteran species). Socio-ecological drivers such as management type (allotment vs. communal) significantly shaped cultivated richness, the volume of spontaneous vegetation, and tree/shrub density — showing that how gardens are managed governs urban biodiversity.
BiodiversityPollinatorsCommunityGlobal Health as Vector for Agroecology in Collective Gardens in Toulouse Region (France)
2025Wilkens J., Mombo S., Dumat C. · Urban Science · France (Toulouse)
Examines 11 years of collective urban gardens in the Toulouse region through the lens of global health—encompassing human well-being, soil health, and interspecies interactions—as a driver of agroecological transitions among gardeners.
CommunityHealthBiodiversityOrganic cycleFrom cities to refuges for pollinators: Urban practices for enhancing pollinator habitats in changing landscapes
2025Ranalli et al. · Journal of Applied Ecology · Global (urban ecosystems)
2025 research on how urban agriculture and urban planning enhance pollinator habitats in changing landscapes. Urban environments offer benefits to pollinator communities: lower pesticide use, greater variety of floral resources, and increased landscape heterogeneity. Urban agriculture serves as a pollinator reservoir and source area for adjacent rural regions, contributing to food security, poverty alleviation, and pollinator conservation.
PollinatorsBiodiversityOrganic cycle