Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
8656 results(4 / 347)
What’s in the Share?
2026Jocelyn Parot, Stefan Wahlen, Philipp Weckenbrock, Marina Schneider, Andreas Gattinger · Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek Münster · France
This paper investigates how Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) initiatives in France navigate tensions between solidarity ideals and market expectations. Analyzing weekly CSA shares from twelve partnerships, including monitoring and producer interviews, the study found that CSA producers adopt hybrid strategies for economic viability and partial decommodification. The CSA share is presented as a material manifestation of this interfield position, stabilizing CSA as a hybrid field within alternative food systems.
CSA & TeikeiEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityPERCEPTIONS ON URBAN-BASED GARDENING IN THE CITY OF ISABELA, BASILAN, PHILIPPINES
2026Bendijo, S.A., Rebuza, A.O., Pedillon, J.M., Amilbahar, G.V., Tabal, E.P. · AgEcon Search (University of Minnesota, USA) · Philippines
This study in Isabela City, Philippines, explored community perceptions of urban gardening (UG). While awareness was linked to food security and sustainability, and perceived benefits included health, cost savings, and social cohesion, the adoption of UG was hindered by a lack of interest and resource constraints. Preferred UG forms like rooftop gardens and specific vegetables indicated aspirations for cost savings and nutrient content, but obstacles remain.
Economic viabilityCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceHealthEconomicsWastewater reuse in urbanperi-urban agriculture of Dakar: Salmonella species contamination in water and market garden produce
2026Ndiaye Awa, Diallo Ibrahima, Dieng Amadou, Ba Ibrahima, Sembene Mbacke · African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology · Senegal
This study in Dakar, Senegal, assessed Salmonella contamination in irrigation water and lettuce across three urban agricultural sites. Sites using wastewater (Pikine and Patte d’Oie) showed high Salmonella prevalence in water (70-90%) and vegetables (20-80%), while a tap water site (Lendeng) had no contamination. Market-sourced lettuce also tested positive (28.57%), indicating public health risks from untreated wastewater use.
Contamination & food safetyHealthPeri-urban agricultureOrganic cycleUrban Farming Initiatives in the United Arab Emirates:
2026Anamika Mishra, Rim Meziani, Ayah Alkhatib, Sara Ayman Laila · International Review for Spatial Planning and Sustainable Development · United Arab Emirates
This paper reviews the current state of urban farming initiatives in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to initiate a discussion on urban farming spatial practices in Gulf cities. It classifies global farming initiatives into four categories and documents UAE's institutional and policy frameworks for food security. The study analyzes a database of UAE farming initiatives using this classification, identifying trends and opportunities for integrating urban farming into the city.
PolicyFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityEffects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth, yield and quality of lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L.) in rooftop garden
2026Monika Kundu, Rezowana Nizam, Suraya Parvin, Nigar Afsana, Konika Kundu, P. A. Bithy, Mohammad Mahbub Islam · Bangladesh Journal of Botany · Bangladesh
A pot experiment in a rooftop garden investigated the effects of organic and inorganic fertilizers on lettuce growth, yield, and antioxidant properties. Treatments with cowdung, alone or combined with vermicompost and biochar, increased plant height, leaf number, and shoot weight compared to control and inorganic fertilizer. Antioxidant compounds increased with organic fertilizers but decreased with inorganic fertilizers, suggesting organic fertilizers improve lettuce yield and quality in rooftop gardens.
DIYOrganic cycleHealthEco-Levee Coastal Corridors for Integrating Nature-Based and Hybrid Solutions in Coastal Resilience
2026Idawarni Asmal, Asano Junichiro · Civil Engineering Journal · Indonesia (South Sulawesi)
This study developed and evaluated the Eco-Levee Coastal Corridor (ELCC) as a multifunctional spatial adaptation model for coastal settlements in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, vulnerable to tidal flooding and erosion. Employing integrated spatial analysis and a design-based approach, the research found that ELCC enhances coastal resilience by combining hybrid engineering with Nature-Based Solutions like vegetated buffers and edible forest systems. This configuration reduces coastal hazard exposure, improves environmental quality, and supports local livelihoods.
CommunityClimate changeBiodiversityThermal Remote Sensing and ECOSTRESS for Urban Agriculture: A Systematic Review of Cooling Benefits and Water Demand
2026D. T. Gyan, Y. A. Twumasi, Z. H. Ning, E. Dadzie, J. D. Osei, P. M. Loh, K. K. Annan, J. Mensah, S. Dorcoo · The international archives of the photogrammetry, remote sensing and spatial information sciences/International archives of the photogrammetry, remote sensing and spatial information sciences · Global
This systematic review, guided by PRISMA 2020 protocols, examined decades of peer-reviewed studies on thermal remote sensing, focusing on NASA’s ECOSTRESS mission, to evaluate urban agriculture's (UA) cooling benefits and water demand. The review found that UA can lower localized land surface temperature by 1–5°C and that ECOSTRESS-derived evapotranspiration provides robust estimates for optimizing irrigation. However, gaps persist in validation methods, socio-economic integration, and multi-climate assessments.
Climate changeBiodiversityFood sovereignty & justiceThe role of school gardens in supporting teachers’ psychological well-being and landscape development in special education schools: A systematic literature review
2026Anqi Liu, Mohd Yazid Mohd Yunos, Shureen Faris Abdul Shukor, Mohd Sallehudin Mat Noor · International Journal of Asian Social Science · Global
This systematic literature review analyzed 33 studies published between 2005 and 2025 in English and Chinese, synthesizing findings on psychological stress sources for special education teachers, the functions and restorative value of school gardens, and research progress on landscapes in special education schools. Primary stress sources for special education teachers included emotional labor, behavioral management, parental communication, and role ambiguity. School gardens were found to have educational, restorative, and therapeutic functions that foster experiential learning, reduce stress, and strengthen teacher-student relationships. However, validated frameworks for restorative design in special education campuses are still lacking.
HealthFood educationPersepsi Petani Terhadap Manfaat Urban Farming di Kecamatan Umbulharjo Kota Yogyakarta
2026Eska Stefani, Artita Devi Maharani, Nanang Kusuma Mawardi · AGRIBIOS · Indonesia (Yogyakarta)
In Umbulharjo District, Yogyakarta City, Indonesia, urban farming has been implemented as an alternative to improve food security and economic welfare. However, its implementation faces challenges such as land limitations, lack of access to modern agricultural technology, and low public understanding of its benefits. A descriptive quantitative study using a Likert scale (1-4) found that respondents strongly agreed that urban farming provides social benefits and agreed on its economic and environmental benefits.
Governance failureFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityEconomicsPolicySdílení potravin v Brně
2026Jennifer Lyons, Anna Davies · Open MIND · Czech Republic (Brno)
This report assesses the sustainability impacts of Food Sharing Initiatives (FSIs) in Brno, Czech Republic, using CULTIVATE’s Food Sharing Map and Sustainability Impact Assessment (SIA) data submitted by FSIs. The estimations cover environmental, economic, and social sustainability pillars, though the presented indicators are a subset of total impacts. The report notes that impact estimations will become more accurate as more FSIs submit SIA data.
CommunityEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceLandscapes and Wellbeing: Reflections on Two Decades of Research and Practice in Europe
2026Simon Bell · The International Journal of Healthy Space · Europe
This paper reflects on the evolution of research into the links between landscape and human health and wellbeing in Europe since 2000. It charts how the field developed through major initiatives like COST Actions and European research framework projects, coalescing into an established evidence base connecting green and blue spaces with human health, wellbeing, and policy action. The author offers a personal perspective on the trajectory of this research over the past two decades, based on direct involvement and lessons learned.
CommunityHealthPolicyFood Sharing in Lisbon
2026Jennifer Lyons, Anna Davies · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Portugal (Lisbon)
This report, part of the CULTIVATE project, assesses the sustainability impacts of Food Sharing Initiatives (FSIs) in Lisbon. It combines insights from CULTIVATE's Food Sharing Map with sustainability impact assessment (SIA) data submitted by FSIs, estimating impacts across social, environmental, economic, and governance pillars. The report notes that the presented indicators are a subset of total impacts and estimations will become more accurate as more FSIs submit SIA data.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsPolicySCHOOL GARDEN IN MOCAJUBA BASED ON STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVES AND THE WORK OF PIBID
2026Maria Eduarda Costa Maia, Nathalia Gomes Corrêa, Eder Everton Caldas de Oliveira, Waldenira Mercedes Pereira Torres · Aracê. · Brazil
This article reports on the creation and implementation of a school garden at Dep. Abel Figueiredo Municipal Elementary School in Mocajuba, Pará, Brazil. The project, initiated based on student demands identified through a documentary, involved 9th-grade students, PIBID scholarship recipients, and the school community. The school garden fostered practical learning, student leadership, collaborative work, and improved school meals, with strategies for sustainability including maintenance schedules and irrigation systems.
Food educationCommunityHealthBiodiversityExploring the economic viability and marketability of aeroponics systems: An urban agriculture study in Navotas City
2026Hanna Kye Pohanes, Samantha Andrea Farinas, Maricar Cangayao, Jasmin Mae dela Peña, Chinie King Ho, Jonalyn Palconit, Jholan Hazel Tabance, Divina Gracia Cabaddu, Ryan dela Peña · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Philippines (Navotas City)
This qualitative study in Navotas City explored the economic viability and marketability of aeroponics systems in urban agriculture. Findings indicate aeroponics requires high initial investment and faces challenges such as produce failing to meet specific weight standards for sale, high energy consumption, and high setup costs. While offering benefits like efficient resource use and high yields, further improvements in system efficiency and operational methods are needed for it to become a viable and scalable business model.
Economic viabilityDigital agricultureEconomicsClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceFood sharing in Freiburg
2026Jennifer Lyons, Anna Davies · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Germany (Freiburg)
This report, part of the CULTIVATE project, assesses the sustainability impacts of Food Sharing Initiatives (FSIs) in Freiburg. It combines insights from CULTIVATE's Food Sharing Map with sustainability impact assessment (SIA) data submitted by FSIs, estimating impacts across environmental, economic, and social pillars. The report notes that the presented indicators are a subset of total impacts and estimations will become more accurate as more FSIs submit SIA data.
CommunityFood educationFood lossEconomicsComparative analysis of water footprints among urban and rural agricultural households in southeast Nigeria
2026David John Okoronkwo, Zorica Srđević, Simon Chidera Ugwoke · Discover Applied Sciences · Nigeria
This study analyzed the total water footprint (WF) and its components for 64 agricultural households (33 urban, 31 rural) in Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria. The total WF of urban agricultural households was 19,516.9 m³/month, 6.6% higher than rural households (17,088.2 m³), though the blue WF of rural households exceeded urban households by 4.7%. The study identified inefficient water use in urban households and limited water-saving devices in rural households as critical drivers of water consumption.
Urban–rural linkageClimate changeEconomicsРоль органічного сільського господарства у забезпеченні продовольчої безпеки
2026О. І. Дребот, О. В. Мельников · The Scientific Issues of Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University Series pedagogy · Global
This article examines the contribution of organic agriculture to food security, identifying its role in maintaining soil fertility, supporting biodiversity, and increasing agricultural system resilience to climate change. The study also notes limitations, including lower yields, higher certification costs, and limited economic accessibility of organic products. It concludes that organic agriculture is an important element of an integrated food security model.
Food sovereignty & justiceClimate changeOrganic cycleSocio-economic and urban form characteristics driving urban agriculture development: A spatial analysis across 11 large European cities
2026Paris Pencharz, Peter H. Verburg, Pierre Chopin · Landscape and Urban Planning · Europe
This study investigated the conditions enabling urban agriculture (UA) at a 1 km² scale across 11 large European cities. The intercity model suggested that UA is more likely found in greener, central neighborhoods with lower property prices and lower proportions of locally born residents. However, there is not a consistent set of factors implying UA presence, suggesting other social and policy factors might be at play.
Equity & displacementEconomicsCommunityPolicyUrban–rural linkagePrefigurative politics
2026Emma Paisley · Edward Elgar Publishing eBooks · Global
This chapter explores prefigurative politics as a transformative framework in food studies, focusing on enacting future societal values in present-day activism and pedagogy. It examines how grassroots initiatives like agroecology, food sovereignty, and community supported agriculture embody principles of equity, sustainability, and cooperation, challenging dominant capitalist food systems.
Food sovereignty & justiceCSA & TeikeiPolicyFood educationDiversity of Herbs
2026Dorothee Benkowitz · International explorations in outdoor and environmental education · Global
Herbs have historically provided medicinal, culinary, and cosmetic benefits, and their diversity offers insights into biological and ecological principles. Modern diets and disconnection from local agriculture have led to a decline in herbal knowledge. Cultivating herbs in school gardens promotes sustainability awareness, hands-on learning, and an appreciation for plant diversity.
Food educationBiodiversityDIYTECHNICAL GUIDANCE HOUSEHOLD ORGANIC WASTE FERTILIZER PRODUCTION TO SUPPORT URBAN FARMING ON ANTHROPOGENIC LAND FOR THE DASAWISMA GROUPS
2026La Ode Rustam, Darwis Darwis, Rian Arini, Abdi Abdi · Mitra Mahajana Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat · Indonesia (Kendari City)
An Internal Community Partnership Program in Mandonga Village, Kendari City, Indonesia, provided technical guidance to the Gunung Sakura and Bunga Sakura Dasawisma Groups on converting household waste into organic fertilizer for urban farming on degraded land. The program achieved an 80% outcome attainment rate, with participants reaching 100% comprehension in identifying organic waste components and acquiring skills to produce solid organic fertilizer within 14-21 days. This fertilizer aims to restore soil fertility and support urban farming sustainability.
CompostDIYCommunityOrganic cycleCULTIVO PROTEGIDO E HIDROPONIA NA AGRICULTURA BRASILEIRA: ambientes controlados, automação e produção sustentável em pequenas áreas
2026Carlos Luiz Vieira · · Brazil
This study analyzes protected cultivation and hydroponics in Brazil as technologies enabling full control of environmental variables and eliminating dependence on climate seasonality. These technologies demonstrate 80-95% reductions in water consumption, 300-500% increases in productivity compared to open fields, and complete elimination of agrochemical residues. However, the study also points out implementation challenges for these technologies, concluding they are fundamental for food security in contexts of accelerated urbanization, water scarcity, and global climate change.
Economic viabilityDigital agricultureClimate changeFood sovereignty & justicePeri-urban agricultureAgrotechnology and Sustainable Agricultural Innovation
2026A. R. (Alin) Adawiah, S. (Sumini) Sumini, R. A. (Rahil) Rifqah, M. (Muhammad) Syafi’ie, S. (Sari) Susanti, P. (Poppy) Khairunnisa, S. Anggraini, S. (Samsul) Bahri, P. A. (Pajri) Yudha, M. (Meli) Roslianti · Neliti · Global
This book provides an overview of agrotechnology and sustainable agricultural innovation, covering topics such as environmentally friendly agricultural production systems, cultivation innovation, post-harvest technology, agricultural mechanization and automation, precision agriculture, biotechnology, organic agriculture, urban farming, climate change adaptation, and policies. It states that the agricultural sector is a vital pillar for providing food and supporting economic, cultural, and environmental sustainability.
Digital agricultureOrganic cycleClimate changePolicyHow Local Governments Link Green Economy and Eco-Edu Tourism?
2026Joli Apriansyah, Evi Satispi, Mawar Mawar, Kurniasih Mufidayati, Lusi Andriyani · Jurnal Ilmu Sosial dan Humaniora · Indonesia (South Jakarta)
In Kelurahan Cikoko, South Jakarta, a qualitative case study investigated how eco-edu tourism operationalizes the green economy agenda along the Ciliwung River. The initiative transformed neglected riverbanks into public eco-edu spaces with urban farming plots and environmental programs, strengthening community participation and generating micro-economic benefits. Identified constraints included coordination burdens, limited financing, and vulnerability to shifting political priorities.
CommunityFood educationPolicyOrganic cycleExploring Urban Sky Gardens’ Spatial Patterns, Influencing Factors and Optimizing Strategies in Lanzhou, China
2026Pengzhen Du, Qiyu Chen, Jinyu Xin, Shibo Ma · Sustainability · China (Lanzhou)
This study established a GIS database of 508 sky gardens in Lanzhou, China, through image maps and on-site investigations, analyzing their spatial patterns and influencing factors. Sky gardens in Lanzhou showed spatial heterogeneity, with 82% being rooftop gardens, mostly on residential, mid- and low-rise buildings, often lacking public accessibility and having low vegetation coverage. Sky garden area was negatively correlated with building height and ground-level green area, and positively associated with plot ratio, building density, and population density. The study concluded that rooftop and podium utilization is relatively low, and sky garden development exhibits spatial clustering.
BiodiversityPolicy