Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
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3465 results(4 / 139)
Does gardening make us feel better? Assessing the motivations and perceptions of urban gardeners in Bogota, Colombia
2026Laura Rojas-Pardo, Tereza Pilařová, Kindah Ibrahim, Patrick Van Damme, Vladimír Verner · Local Environment · Colombia (Bogotá)
This study assessed the self-reported motivations for urban homegardening in Bogota, Colombia, through thematic content analysis of 119 semi-structured interviews. Three main motivations were identified: enjoyment, food self-provision, and social connection, which were associated with gardeners' socioeconomic strata and garden location. Enjoyment was a significant factor for over 70% of respondents in central and northern areas, while aesthetic appeal and economic constraints were prominent in the southern periphery, with only lower socioeconomic strata reporting economic reasons for gardening.
HealthFood educationCommunityEconomicsCommunity nature spaces
2026JD Brown · · Global
Based on experiences from the pandemic, this study highlights the importance of shared nature spaces in urban areas, particularly community gardens. For those without mobility or private nature spaces, these areas provided primary social and health support. Community-led design, land security, infrastructure support, proximity to homes, and time flexibility are identified as essential ingredients for successful community nature spaces.
CommunityHealthPolicyFood sovereignty, capitalism and migrant workers
2026Sinem Kavak, Lorenza Arango, Doi Ra, Zeynep Ceren Eren Benlisoy, Carlo John Arceo, George T. Mudimu, Daren Shi-chi Leung, Adwoa Yeboah Gyapong, Mnqobi Ngubane · The Journal of Peasant Studies · Global
Migrant workers often remain marginal in food sovereignty discourse and practice despite their central role in the global food system. The emphasis on localization within food sovereignty often overlooks trends towards semi-proletarianization within small peasant and worker households, and a more inclusive food sovereignty agenda must address migrant workers' access to land.
Equity & displacementFood sovereignty & justiceUrban–rural linkageEconomicsA fenntartható városi infrastruktúra szerepe az életminőség javításában = The role of sustainable urban infrastructurein improving the quality of life
2026Róbert Nagy · Repository of the Academy's Library (Library of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences) · Global
This systematic literature review analyzed 33 Scopus-indexed studies published between 2020 and 2026 on sustainable urban infrastructure investments. It concluded that Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) and urban energy infrastructure significantly contribute to improving mental health, mitigating urban heat island effects, and reducing household energy costs. However, the review also identified structural barriers to BGI adoption, including capital shortages and lack of institutional coordination.
Climate changeHealthBiodiversityCommunityWilding Practices Through Design: Playful Encounters for Reframing Control in Multispecies Cohabitation
2026Erik Andersson, Martín Ávila, Nelly Mäekivi · Revista Diseña · Sweden (Stockholm)
This article explores how design interventions can reintroduce elements of 'wildness' into urban environments to foster multispecies interaction. Using prototypes as habitat elements for newts in a Stockholm allotment garden, the study found these interventions provoked human curiosity, connected to gardening traditions, and increased multispecies activity. The authors argue that design should prioritize attunement, ambiguity, and divergence to support new forms of cohabitation in urban life.
BiodiversityCommunityPerceived sustainability impacts of converting to community‐supported agriculture
2026Lukas Egli, Jana V. Schmidt, Hanna‐Sofie Haf, Mirco Zech · Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems · Global
This exploratory quantitative survey assessed farmers' perceived sustainability impacts of converting to Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA). While most perceived impacts were positive, adverse impacts were anticipated regarding climate and water, such as increased water usage from vegetable production. Farmers in CSAs with medium to high member participation perceived significantly higher biodiversity impacts and more positive sustainability impacts for members.
Environmental trade-offsCSA & TeikeiClimate changeBiodiversityEconomicsFeeding the Capital, Governing the Soil: Turning Policy and By-laws into Action for Urban Agriculture in Dodoma City Council, Tanzania
2026Baltazar Namwata · Journal of Agriculture and Agronomy (JAA) · Tanzania (Dodoma)
This mixed-methods study assessed the implementation of urban agriculture (UA) policies in Dodoma City Council, Tanzania, surveying 300 urban farmers. Findings revealed low farmer awareness of city planning (15.9%) and UA regulations (24.4%), limited access to extension services (25.4%) and credit (24.0%), and unreliable water sources for many (45.5%). The study concluded that supportive national policy recognition has not translated into effective local implementation, farmer awareness, reliable service delivery, or practical enforcement.
Governance failurePolicyEconomicsCommunityExfoliating microplastics intensifies heavy metal uptake and physiological stress in wastewater-irrigated chili plants
2026Hajra Kanwal, Qudrat Ullah, Waqas Haider, Mujahid Farid, Zaki Ul Zaman Asam, Muhammad Zubair, Abdulrahman Alasmari, Sarah Owdah Alomrani, Muhammad Munir, Shafaqat Ali · Open MIND · Global
This study investigated the interactive effects of contaminated wastewater with cadmium, mercury, lead, and polyethylene microplastics from exfoliating personal care products on chili plants (Capsicum annuum). Plant growth parameters were reduced by 71–82% at high wastewater and microplastic levels, accompanied by significant losses in photosynthetic pigments and soluble proteins. Oxidative stress markers increased by 124–230%, and heavy metal uptake was significantly increased, facilitated by microplastics.
Contamination & food safetyPeri-urban agricultureHealthEkosistem Restorasyonu ve Doğa Temelli Çözümlerle Gıda Sistemlerinin Güçlendirilmesi
2026Çiğdem Coşkun Hepcan · · Global
This study examines how ecosystem restoration and Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) can transform food systems. It highlights that ecosystem degradation threatens essential services, and NbS offer an integrated approach to restoring degraded ecosystems by enhancing soil fertility, improving water retention, and reducing pollution. Integrating NbS into various ecosystems provides a holistic strategy for strengthening ecological integrity and food system resilience, contributing to climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and disaster risk reduction.
BiodiversityClimate changeOrganic cycleFood sovereignty & justicePredation risk of gregarious and aposematic insect larvae in an urban-agricultural landscape
2026Ramdhia A. Baluno, Guiamelah O. Mamangkas, Asraf K. Lidasan, Angelo Rellama Agduma, Bona Abigail Hilario‐Husain, Kier C. Dela Cruz, Krizler C. Tanalgo · Ecoscience · Philippines
This study investigated the relationship between prey aggregation, body coloration, and habitat structure with the likelihood of predation by visually oriented vertebrates in an urban-agricultural area in the Philippines, using an artificial caterpillar model. Of the 1026 observed prey items, 204 were attacked, primarily by mammals (75%), then birds (17%), and reptiles (8%). Contrary to the initial hypothesis, prey coloration did not influence predation risk; instead, prey aggregation was the primary determinant of attack likelihood. Habitat structure variables also influenced predation.
BiodiversityShrinking agriculture in the arid landscapes of the Cholistan Desert: a geospatial assessment of urban expansion and its implications for the sustainable future of Multan City, Pakistan
2026Muhammad Hussain, Saima Shaikh, Zahir Ahmad, Ihsanullah, George Kontakiotis, Andreas Dittmann · Ecological Questions · Pakistan (Multan City)
This study analyzed urban expansion patterns and their impact on agricultural land in Multan City, Pakistan, using remotely sensed data from 1990 to 2020. The built-up area increased from 75 km² in 1990 to 299 km² in 2020, representing an annual increase of 9.5%. This growth converted approximately 31% (100 km²) of fertile agricultural land into built-up areas, with predictions of further increases of 54% by 2030 and 67% by 2040.
Governance failurePolicyUrban–rural linkageClimate changeDiversity of School Gardens: Finding a Partner School Garden
2026Birgitta Goldschmidt · International explorations in outdoor and environmental education · Global
This chapter discusses school garden partnerships between schools in different countries, highlighting how gardening methods vary globally due to geographical, climatic, and traditional factors. Such partnerships can foster international and intercultural understanding, develop communication skills, and promote education for sustainable development by allowing students to identify similarities and differences. The paper suggests that geographically and culturally distant partnerships, especially North-South collaborations, are most effective for global learning despite being challenging.
Food educationCommunityIntegración de huertos escolares como estrategia didáctica para fortalecer el aprendizaje sobre ecosistemas y sostenibilidad en estudiantes de Educación Básica.
2026Gema Paola Loor Bravo, Carmen Fernanda Sandoval Lloacana, Viky Beatriz Batallas Huera, Verónica Leonor Loja Caló, Nuve del Cisne Matute Maldonado · Perspectiva XXI · Global
A quasi-experimental mixed-methods study investigated the integration of school gardens as a pedagogical resource in basic education. The intervention, using project-based learning and scientific inquiry, aimed to enhance learning about ecosystems and sustainability. Findings indicated that students improved ecological knowledge, systems thinking, and environmental problem-solving skills, while also strengthening autonomy, environmental responsibility, and socio-emotional abilities.
Food educationCommunityClimate changeBiodiversityDesigning for Health and Learning: Lessons Learned from a Case Study of the Evidence-Based Health Design Process for a Rooftop Garden at a Danish Social and Healthcare School
2026Ulrika K. Stigsdotter, Lene Lottrup · Buildings · Denmark
This case study from a Danish Social and Health Care School examines the Evidence-Based Health Design in Landscape Architecture (EBHDL) process for a rooftop garden. The garden was designed to promote student health and integrate nature-based teaching. The study identifies lessons learned regarding governance, stakeholder roles, site selection, and the EBHDL model's alignment with construction phases, demonstrating how evidence-based and participatory approaches can structure complex design processes.
HealthFood educationCommunityIntegrating vertical and urban farming into sustainable food systems: a comprehensive review
2026Thulisekari Prasanna, Guda Bhargavi, Murugesan Mohana Keerthi · Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems · Global
This comprehensive review synthesizes literature on vertical and urban agriculture within sustainable food systems, identifying production models and technical advancements. Empirical evidence indicates these systems can improve water/land-use efficiency, yield stability, and reduce post-harvest losses. However, significant challenges persist, including high capital and energy prices, inadequate crop diversification, technical complexities, and regulatory constraints, impacting their economic viability.
Economic viabilityUrban–rural linkagePeri-urban agricultureClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsPolicyDigital agricultureThe Narratives of Community Garden Beneficiaries of Gawad Kalinga ERH Village: A Social Behavioral Change Evaluation
2026Joshua Eusebio Jr · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Philippines (Bacolod City)
This study assessed the social and behavioral changes of Project Kauswagan, a youth-led community garden initiative in Gawad Kalinga ERH Village, Bacolod City, Philippines, implemented from May 2024 to March 2025. Data from focus group discussions with key community leaders revealed six major themes, including empowerment, formation of community habits, shifts in attitudes toward sharing and collaboration, and positive impact on food security. The project strengthened collaboration and enhanced food accessibility for marginalized groups, particularly women.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceWelfareFood educationDIYLife Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Urban Wastewater Reuse: Successes, Persistent Pitfalls, and a Practical Path Forward
2026Eleonora Santos, Zeeshan Arshad · Sustainability · Global
This critical narrative review synthesized evidence from 25 peer-reviewed studies on Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) applications in urban municipal wastewater reuse. While positive outcomes were reported under specific conditions like low-carbon energy grids and short transport distances, persistent methodological pitfalls were identified. These include weak pillar integration, an underdeveloped social dimension, inconsistent system boundaries, and insufficient consideration of absolute sustainability.
Methodological critiqueClimate changeOrganic cyclePolicyUrban agriculture in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: A systematic review of practices, challenges and sustainability
2026hawamkwela@yahoo.com MKWELA · Social Sciences & Humanities Open · Tanzania (Dar es Salaam)
This systematic review analyzed 42 studies from 1990 to 2024, examining urban agriculture practices, scale, socio-economic contributions, health and environmental impacts, and governance constraints in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Urban agriculture involves 36,000–60,000 households cultivating 1,800–6,000 hectares annually, supplying 90% of city vegetables, providing 20–70% of household income, and employing over 100,000 people. However, 85–95% of farmers lack secure land tenure, 78% of vegetable samples exceed WHO E. coli limits, and 90% of produce is sold informally with high post-harvest losses of 20–40%.
Contamination & food safetyFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsHealthPolicyEl conuco como estrategia pedagógica para contribuir al rescate de las tradiciones ancestrales en la comunidad indígena Achagua (resguardo Umapo) municipio de Puerto López, Colombia
2026Monica del Pilar Rodriguez Rodriguez, Jorge Luis Triana Riveros, NEWTON NARCISO GOMES · Revista Brasileira de Educação do Campo · Colombia
This study investigated "conuco" (traditional food production) as a pedagogical strategy to rescue ancestral traditions in the Achagua indigenous community of Umapo reserve, Puerto López, Colombia. Facing a historical loss of customs due to settler companies and communities, an ethnographic methodology was implemented, involving intergenerational dialogue between elders and youth, and the creation of a school garden cultivating traditional foods. This agricultural intervention was concluded to be a fundamental educational strategy against acculturation, revitalizing at-risk eating habits, promoting the effective rescue of ancestral traditions, and consolidating the cultural identity of new Achagua generations.
Food educationCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceA review on urban horticulture: An innovative approach for smart cities
2026Davendra Kumar, Krishan Pal, Ashish Kumar · International Journal of Advanced Biochemistry Research · Global
This review discusses urban horticulture as a viable method to address challenges arising from rapid urbanization, population growth, food crisis, and climate change. It notes that by 2050, 40.76% of India's population is projected to live in urban areas, increasing pressure on urban resources and rural agricultural production. Urban horticulture is presented as a sustainable way to reduce agricultural pressure and combat food crisis.
Food sovereignty & justiceClimate changeEconomicsUrban–rural linkageTides of Change
2026Teesa Sindhu P. Thomas · · Global
This paper discusses four transformative strategies—biogas production, algae-based fertilizers, hydroponics, and community gardens—to enhance the resilience of coastal communities worldwide against climate change impacts. The findings highlight the potential of these sustainable practices to transform coastal communities into resilient, economically stable, and ecologically sustainable hubs.
CommunityClimate changeURBAN SUSTAINABILITY, GREEN SPACES, AND ECO-CITY PLANNING
2026Meenakshi Bisht, Amisha Bisht, Sanjay Kumar, Subhash Chandra · · Global
This chapter explores the interrelationship between urban sustainability, green spaces, and eco-city planning, highlighting key concepts, strategies, benefits, challenges, and policy frameworks. Urban sustainability aims to balance economic prosperity, environmental protection, and social well-being, while green spaces enhance environmental quality and mitigate climate change impacts. Eco-city planning integrates ecological principles and sustainable technologies to create environmentally responsible and climate-resilient cities.
CommunityBiodiversityClimate changeHealthPolicyLegacy contamination in Chicago urban park soils: Spatial patterns, socioeconomic disparities, and implications for urban agriculture
2026Jenkins E. M., Heafner H., Montgomery J., Soumano V., Paltseva A. A. · iScience · 米国・シカゴ
Portable X-ray fluorescence measurement of seven trace elements in 233 topsoil samples from five Chicago parks. Lead, arsenic, copper, zinc and chromium exceeded Illinois background levels in 89–100% of samples; arsenic exceeded EPA screening levels in 94% of samples and lead in 7%. Contamination was higher at parks farther from the city centre — Douglass and Humboldt parks, in predominantly minority, lower-income neighbourhoods — than at Cottontail, Grant and Webster. Principal-component analysis identified an anthropogenic signature (PC1, 51.7%) driven by Pb, Zn, Cu and As and a geogenic signature (PC2, 17.0%) associated with Mn and Ni. Areas of Douglass and Humboldt parks were classified as not safe for gardening in native soil; Webster as safe with minor restrictions. The authors conclude that park-soil contamination follows socioeconomic gradients, reflecting environmental injustice and a need for targeted remediation.
Contamination & food safetyHealthPolicyCommunityThe association between climate-smart agriculture practices adoption and farm income and wealth of small-scale urban crop farmers in eThekwini municipality, with implications for food and nutrition security
2026Khumalo N. Z., Sibanda M., Mdoda L. · Frontiers in Nutrition · 南アフリカ・エテクウィニ市（ダーバン）
A multi-stage sample of 412 small-scale urban crop farmers in eThekwini municipality, South Africa, with a conditional mixed process model relating a composite index of climate-smart agriculture adoption (agroforestry, conservation agriculture, crop diversification, rotation, cover crops, drought-tolerant crops, mulching, organic manure, wetland use, soil conservation) to farm income and a wealth index. Adoption was positively associated with both, but the authors state the estimated income association is "relatively modest" and should be read with caution. Several socio-economic variables showed counterintuitive associations, and because existing agricultural training showed a weak association with income-enhancing adoption, the authors call for context-specific, outcome-oriented training and extension rather than more of the same.
Limited or null effectEconomicsClimate changePolicyPerceptions of a community-gardening program: Insights from the TRIOWell pilot with low-active, middle-aged African American women
2026Canton I., Harris S., Jakachira V., Aguinaga S. · Journal of Health Psychology · 米国
A qualitative study of 11 low-active, middle-aged African American women who took part in an eight-week culturally tailored community-gardening intervention, interviewed afterwards. The intervention included a "Black History Knowledge" (BHK) component intended to make it more salient, and its acceptability was examined. Inductive coding produced three themes: preparing for and actively making behaviour changes; a newfound opportunity for community engagement and camaraderie; and opportunities to reconstruct and enrich the intervention's components. The authors argue community gardening may support health-behaviour change among Black women, with relationships central, and discuss scaling up. The sample is small (n = 11) and the findings are qualitative and at pilot stage.
HealthWelfareCommunity