Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
5823 results(31 / 233)
3 Food banks, food diversion, and other responses
2025Dennis Raphael · Policy Press eBooks · Global
This chapter documents the growth of charitable non-governmental responses to food insecurity in Canada and the UK, including food banks and community gardens. It argues that these responses are problematic because they fail to address the economic and political causes of food insecurity. Further failures include the stigma experienced by food bank users and the false belief that food insecurity is being resolved.
Governance failureCommunityWelfareFood sovereignty & justicePolicyTransformar a partir dos interstícios: hortas urbanas comunitárias face à crise ecossocial
2025Sara Sama Acedo, David Berná Serna, Patricia Homs Ramírez de la Piscina · Scientific Repository of Open Access of Portugal (RCAAP) · Spain (Madrid)
A study analyzed the challenge faced by community urban gardens in Madrid, Spain, in remaining transformative spaces amidst an ecossocial crisis. These gardens are initiatives situated between community and public institutional management, with their expansion and institutionalization involving practices and relationships among diverse agents. The study points out the difficulty for these gardens to maintain their transformative role—updating community ties, reciprocity, and mutual care, and reformulating relationships with "nature" in the city and food supply—without being absorbed by market logics or marginalized into welfare or community volunteering spaces.
Governance failureCommunityPolicyFood sovereignty & justicePERAN PENYULUH PERTANIAN DALAM MEMBERDAYAKAN PETANI DI KOTA YOGYAKARTA
2025Kadarso, Fahmi Atha Kanaka, Untoro Hariadi, Rini Anggraeni, Putri Perdana · Jurnal Pertanian Agros · Indonesia
This study, involving 88 farmers from Yogyakarta City, investigated the role and priority activities of agricultural extension workers using quantitative and qualitative methods. While farmers perceived success in social and technical roles, the study found that responsiveness and anticipation are critical aspects requiring strengthening to address the dynamics of urban agriculture.
Governance failureFood educationCommunityPolicyDevelopment and Prospects of Community Gardens through Temporary Use of National Land
2025Naomi Shimpo, Sakura Yamada · Toshi keikaku hokokushu/Toshi keikaku houkokushuu · Japan (Tokyo)
This paper reports on the establishment of "Harajuku Harappa Farm," a community garden initiated by local residents on approximately 1,500m² of unused national land in central Tokyo. The project overcame barriers to national land use through multi-stakeholder collaboration, featuring experimental, shared, and educational plots with an emphasis on composting and local resource circulation. This case suggests the potential for temporary use of public land for environmental education, community building, and circular resource management in urban areas from an urban planning perspective.
CommunityPolicyFood educationOrganic cycleMODULAR SCHOOL GARDEN: A PROPOSAL FOR DEVELOPING GARDENS IN SCHOOL ENVIRONMENTS WITH POTENTIAL FOR REPLICATION IN OTHER SPACES
2025Sirlei Rodrigues do Nascimento, Oduvaldo Vendrametto, Luiz Lima, Luigi Pavarini de Lima · Seven Editora eBooks · Brazil (São Paulo)
This exploratory action-research study adopted a methodology to assess the feasibility of implementing modular school gardens in Ribeirão Pires, SP, Brazil, involving the active participation of students, teachers, and the local community. Feedback from thirteen participating students indicated an increase in knowledge about sustainable practices and cultivation techniques. The results suggest that modular gardens facilitate practical knowledge about food production and demonstrate potential for replication in other educational contexts, emphasizing the importance of integrating them as a pedagogical strategy.
Food educationCommunityPolicyHealthEvaluating the role of green infrastructure in mitigating Urban Environmental and Health Challenges
2025Anuradha S. Bodhe, Sandip N. Ajmire · International Journal Of Recent Advances in Engineering & Technology · Global
This paper investigates the impact of green infrastructure on community health, focusing on the benefits derived from urban nature. As urbanization intensifies, the integration of green spaces such as parks, greenways, and community gardens has become increasingly important for promoting public health. This study examines how these natural environments contribute to physical health by encouraging active lifestyles, improving air quality, and reducing heat-related illnesses. Additionally, the mental health benefits of green infrastructure are explored through its role in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
CommunityHealthClimate changePolicyThe New Orleans Food System and COVID-19: A Case Study in Strengthening Food System Resiliency to Facilitate Healthy Eating
2025Brandi Stein, Megan Knapp, Elisa Muñoz, Donald Rose · Nutrients · United States (New Orleans)
This case study examines the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the New Orleans food system and the community's and local government's responses to strengthen its resiliency. Using a participant-observer approach, including a 2020 online survey of 56 local food organizations, the study identified key themes and efforts. These efforts included the "Greaux the Good" campaign for increased food assistance, policy changes for food vendor permitting, and the establishment of City Food Specialist and Urban Agriculture Liaison positions within local government. Additionally, innovative grassroots citizens' programs positively impacted food access.
CommunityPolicyFood sovereignty & justiceHealthBiodiversity-based Land Management Strategies for Food Security in Suburban Areas
2025Farida Arinie Soelistianto · West Science Nature and Technology · Indonesia
This study investigated biodiversity-based land management strategies as a sustainable solution for urban food security challenges in Indonesia, using a qualitative approach and the Penta Helix model. Data from five informants representing academia, government, private sector, community, and media were analyzed. Findings highlighted the significant contributions of each stakeholder in promoting biodiversity, but also noted persistent challenges such as resource constraints, policy fragmentation, and cultural resistance. The study concluded that biodiversity-based strategies, supported by collaborative governance, are essential for achieving sustainable and food-secure urban environments in Indonesia.
BiodiversityFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityPolicyChallenges and solutions for achieving carbon neutrality through urban green infrastructure in China’s future cities
2025Sitong 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.
Climate changePolicyUrban–rural linkageCommunityPemanfaatan Media Komunikasi dan Sumber Informasi Wanita Tani dalam Menerapkan Pertanian Perkotaan
2025Yulia Andriani, Kausar, Raihani Haura Versha · JURNAL KOMUNIKATIO · Indonesia (Pekanbaru City)
This survey research in Pekanbaru City, Indonesia, identified characteristics of women farmers and their use of communication media and information sources in urban farming. Activeness in groups was a general characteristic. The use of communication media and information sources by women farmers was rated "very good" with a score of 4.39, with the highest score for communication media.
CommunityFood educationDigital agricultureDelmarva Power awards grant to support community sustainability initiatives.
2025· Corporate Philanthropy Report · United States (Delaware and Maryland)
Delmarva Power and the Delaware Nature Society awarded $40,000 in grants in 2024 through their Sustainable Community Grants program in Delaware and Maryland. These grants support projects in reforestation, sustainable transportation, affordable housing, and composting. Over the past four years, the program has provided more than $235,000 in total funding.
CommunityCompostAddressing The Uncertain Future of Agriculture in Nepal: Agents of Food System Changes and Immediate Need for Intervention
2025Sudan Prasad Uprety, Tobin Hindle · Himalayan Biodiversity · Nepal
A study of 245 respondents from Chitwan, Dhading, and Rasuwa districts in Nepal identified major drivers of food system changes. These drivers included a lack of agricultural labor, insufficient government support, crop damage by wildlife, land abandonment, and shifts in occupation. Additionally, increased outmigration from rural to urban areas, climate change, and improved access to markets and processed foods were noted as significant factors influencing food systems in these districts.
CommunityEconomicsPolicyUrban–rural linkageFood sovereignty & justicePresentation 1_Growing kalo (taro) to promote culture and health in the Continental US.pdf
2025Leialoha Ka’ula (22407355), Nicole lee Kamakahiolani Ellison (22407358), Constance James (22407361), Ashley Oshiro (22407364), Kacyn Ideue (22407367), Kahoku Ka’ula (22407370), Alexandra Malia Jackson (12343792) · Figshare · United States
To explore the potential benefits of "māla kalo" (community gardens growing taro) in a continental US community, a survey and interviews were conducted with 12 participants and 5 program leaders, aged 18 to 75 years, at the end of the 2023 growing season. Findings indicated high levels of satisfaction and an interest in more frequent participation. Qualitative data suggested that volunteering at the māla kalo may support connections to self, community, and land, facilitate learning and sharing of knowledge, and foster cultural connections.
CommunityHealthFood educationIntegrated Urban Farming System (IUFS): POTENSI DAN PELUANG MAKASSAR MENUJU KOTA EKOLOGIS
2025La Ode Muhammad Noval Alfrizi La Ode, Djusdil Akrim, Luisa Ángela, Jilan Tsamara, Ronatio Napitupulu, Chatarina T.P, Muhammad Aufa · JEBE Journal of Environment Behavior and Engineering · Indonesia (Makassar)
The Integrated Urban Farming System (IUFS) in Makassar City, Indonesia, utilizes mosque ablution water and community land for vertical farming and aquaponics. This system is estimated to produce up to 1 quintal of vegetables and 50 kg of catfish per cycle while saving approximately 15% of water. The project aims to strengthen local food security and promote Makassar's image as an ecological city through academic-community partnerships and micro-financing.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceOrganic cyclePolicyFlujo de saberes y construcción de comunidades de aprendizaje en huertos urbanos: Un laboratorio de innovación socioecológica en Xalapa-Enríquez, Veracruz
2025Juan Camilo Fontalvo-Buelvas, María Teresa Pulido Silva, Miguel Ángel Escalona Aguilar · Ediciones Comunicación Científica eBooks · Mexico (Xalapa-Enríquez, Veracruz)
This ethnographic study in Xalapa-Enríquez, Veracruz, Mexico, examined the flow of knowledge and the formation of learning communities around 20 urban gardens using in-depth interviews. Findings indicate that knowledge originates from multiple sources, is hybridized through practice, and then mobilized among social actors who provide feedback and re-signify it within learning and practice communities. This process fosters citizen networks and collective action in a medium-sized city.
CommunityFood educationClimate changePENILAIAN KEGIATAN AGROWISATA DI KAMPUNG JAMBU KRISTAL KOTA SEMARANG
2025Natania Nysa Pertiwi, Nany Yuliastuti · Ruang · Indonesia
This quantitative study assessed the performance of agrotourism activities in Kampung Jambu Kristal, Semarang City, Indonesia, using questionnaires, field observations, and document analysis from 33 agrotourism managers. While overall performance was rated "fairly good" (total score 1616), infrastructure (score 1.74) and community economic benefits (score 1.98) were found to be in the "poor" category. Improvements are needed in physical aspects and economic benefits to enhance sustainability and community welfare.
Economic viabilityEconomicsCommunityUrban–rural linkageMot en operasjonalisering av eudaimonisk velvære i offentlige rom
2025Beata Sirowy · · Global
This chapter discusses and attempts to operationalize the concept of human well-being in cities based on the Aristotelian view of human flourishing and Martha Nussbaum’s capability approach in the context of public space. This operationalization maps the central dimensions of eudaimonic well-being using Nussbaum's ten human capabilities and extends the consideration to virtues, which are largely absent in capability scholarship. The research argues for a clearer distinction between eudaimonic and hedonic well-being in urban research.
HealthCommunityPolicyGrowing sustainability: Analysis of socioecological drivers of urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA) under multiple framework assessments. A review
2025Jairo Guzman-Molina, Ramoudane Orou Sannou, Serena Caucci · Journal of Urban Management · Global
This review explores the socioecological drivers and challenges of Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture (UPA) using multiple framework assessments: sustainability, resilience, cultural ecosystem services, and Nexus, following PRISMA guidelines. Global case studies demonstrated practical UPA applications, and a SWOT analysis categorized indicators from the four frameworks. Findings underscored the vital role of advanced technology, knowledge sharing, and resource management in UPA's performance, and that UPA enhances education, urban aesthetics, and health. Challenges included a lack of materials, disempowerment, inadequate institutional support, and resource mismanagement leading to food contamination in cases like Kampala.
Climate changeFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsCommunityBiodiversity and Urban agriculture: Insights and future directions
2025Charlotte Liborio-Cornet, Hugo de Vergès · HAL (Le Centre pour la Communication Scientifique Directe) · Global
This paper conducted a literature review on the impact of urban agriculture on biodiversity in urban landscapes. Focusing on three key taxa—birds, flora, and arthropods—it indicated that larger plots, greater plant diversity, and habitat heterogeneity generally promote biodiversity across taxa. The review identified significant biases in the literature, with a predominance of studies in North America and Europe focusing on non-professional urban agricultural forms, particularly community gardens, while professional urban farms remain under-researched.
BiodiversityCommunityOrganic cycleProcesos de diseño y construcción para la reapropiación ciudadana de los vacíos urbanos. El Proyecto Machi Hata en Nagano, Japón
2025Kosuke Sakura, Ignacio Grávalos Lacambra, Manuel Alejandro Rufasto Ñañez, Patrizia Di Monte · Dearq · Japan (Nagano)
This article presents an active service-learning methodology as a pedagogical approach in architecture schools, focusing on community-led appropriation of public space. This methodology was implemented through the Machi Hata Project, which aimed to transform three abandoned areas near Zenkoji Temple in Nagano—Sukeroku Garden, La Rencontre Backyard, and A Goat Garden—into "civic gardens." The study documents the sequential processes of analysis, design, and community-led construction of these community gardens, highlighting their potential as both educational tools and catalysts for urban regeneration.
CommunityFood educationPolicyErvaterapia: oficinas de sabonetes artesanais com propriedades medicinais
2025Tatiane Sueli Coutinho · Revista Ciência em Extensão · Brazil
The Ervaterapia project conducted 14 workshops (10 at IFC, 4 with CRAS) in Brazil, focusing on producing handmade soaps with medicinal herbs from a community garden. These 3-hour workshops aimed to raise awareness about medicinal herbs as a health promotion alternative to allopathic medicines and to foster an alternative income source through natural soap sales. The project successfully brought the community and the educational institution closer, promoting regional social and economic development.
CommunityFood educationHealthEconomicsLandscape, urban gardening, and aesthetics
2025Mateusz Salwa · · Global
This chapter discusses contemporary urban gardening practices as an activity interpretable as a model for how people should design and manage their landscapes. Gardening is presented as driven by an "aesthetics of care," arguing for a new paradigm in landscape aesthetics that should no longer be associated with aesthetic appreciation. Instead, it should be conceived as related to human engagement in and with the landscape.
DIYCommunityFood educationHuertos urbanos, infraestructura verde y urbanismo: una relación histórica con capacidad renovadora
2025Carmen Blasco Sánchez, Francisco Juan Martínez Pérez · Ciudad y territorio: Estudios territoriales · Global
This paper explores the historical relationship between urban gardens, green infrastructure, and urban planning. Urban gardens, with a long tradition, are recognized as a valuable resource for sustainable urban development, addressing not only environmental needs but also social cohesion, food security, health, and economic incentives. The evolution of rural-urban relationships in urban planning culture presents a new challenge with urban gardens, necessitating a re-examination of the disciplinary path to clarify their potential in new forms of urban planning.
CommunityClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceHealthMenganalisis SWOT dalam Kelompok Tani Surya Hijau di Kelurahan Suryodiningratan, Kecamatan Mantrijeron, Kota yogyakarta
2025Siti Hajar, Siti Via Syahrani Putri, Hanif Fatihah Tsari, Muhammad Iqbal, Arjuna Arjuna, Nur Saudah Al Arifa D · Prosiding Seminar Nasional Pembangunan dan Pendidikan Vokasi Pertanian · Indonesia
This study analyzed the empowerment strategies of the Surya Hijau Farmer Group in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, using SWOT analysis. The group, which practices urban farming with vertical planting, demonstrated strong internal cooperation but faced challenges including caterpillar pest attacks, difficulty obtaining quality growing media, and water scarcity. A critical finding was that the group's income was affected by fluctuating harvest prices, posing a significant threat to their economic viability.
Economic viabilityCommunityDIYOrganic cycleEconomicsGrass-roots Innovation for Justice in Urban Food Provisioning
2025Lídia Cabral, Ronald Ranta, Suleyman M. Demi, Ísis Domingues, Julian May, Claire Néel, Grace Nkomo, Luciana Marques Vieira, Marie Walser · · Global
An international research collaboration examined grass-roots food provisioning innovations in five urban locations across the UK, Canada, France, Brazil, and South Africa. These initiatives, which include social supermarkets and school gardens, faced challenges such as dependence on surplus food, logistical problems, funding limitations, and the need for ongoing volunteer support. The study found that these innovations struggle with economic viability due to funding and volunteer reliance.
Economic viabilityFood sovereignty & justiceWelfareCommunityEconomics