Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
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1545 results(4 / 62)
Reducing Sulfur Dioxide and Boosting Agricultural Productivity: Evidence From China's Sulfur Dioxide Trading Pilot
2026QianYing Chen, Pengyu Chen, Guangwei Liu · Food and Energy Security · China
This study, using China's 2007 sulfur dioxide emission trading as a starting point, reveals the relationship between Sulfur Dioxide Emissions Trading (SDE) and agricultural productivity. The analysis found that SDE can suppress agricultural productivity, and it has a greater negative impact on cotton-growing, non-rice-producing, and non-fruit-producing areas. Furthermore, SDE inhibits local urban agricultural productivity while promoting agricultural productivity in neighboring cities.
Environmental trade-offsClimate changeEconomicsImproving the efficiency and sustainability of the food system
2026Saksham Nagpal, Gaganpreet Kaur · · Global
This paper reviews factors defining the efficiency and sustainability of the global food system, examining resource, energy, and economic efficiency across the food chain. It emphasizes the necessity of improving greenhouse gas emissions, water use, soil health, food distribution, and farmer profitability for sustainability. The paper discusses methods such as precision agriculture, smart supply chain management, and alternative production like urban agriculture, highlighting the crucial role of policies and governance in promoting sustainable practices.
Climate changeEconomicsPolicyFood sovereignty & justiceBeyond the Plot: Systematic Literature Review of Landscape Approach and Systems Thinking Towards Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Farming
2026Pooja Boddupalli, Steffen Nijhuis, N. M. J. D. Tillie · Sustainability · Global
This systematic literature review investigated how landscape-based approaches (LbAs) and systems thinking (ST) have been concurrently applied to analyze and design urban agriculture and farming (UAF) initiatives. Screening 92 records, the study identified 12 peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025, reflecting the nascent state of this interdisciplinary approach. The findings revealed limited integration of spatial analysis with systems thinking across scales in current scholarship.
Methodological critiqueFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changeBiodiversityPolicyA framework for strategic transformation of vacant lots for heat resilience
2026Saeideh Sobhaninia, Patricia Solis, Ebenezer N. K. Boateng, Isaac Buo · Journal of Environmental Management · Global
This study developed the Heat-Strategic Vacant Parcel Conversion (HSVPC) framework to guide the transformation of urban vacant lots into green spaces for heat resilience. The framework considers zoning, land use, and ownership to identify suitable sites. Applying it to real-world data, simulations showed that converting vacant parcels into green spaces, such as through tree planting, could reduce urban heat by up to 6.44°C Mean Radiant Temperature overall and 4.87°C at peak heat, especially benefiting vulnerable neighborhoods.
CommunityClimate changePolicySystemic operative framework to support the integration of urban agriculture and socio-ecological resilience in informal settlements: A dynamic urban metabolism approach to food security
2026Alejandra Acevedo-De-los-Ríos, Anna Dyson, Damien Claeys, Úrsula Cárdenas‐Mamani · Ecological Modelling · Peru (Lima)
This study developed a four-stage diagnostic-to-simulation framework to integrate urban agriculture (UA) and socio-ecological resilience in informal settlements, calibrated for Ciudad de Gosen, Lima, Peru (6300 inhabitants). Simulation results indicate that rooftop and unbuilt-land cultivation can meet household vegetable and fruit demand, biodigestion can supply 17–52% of energy needs, and greywater reuse can sustain approximately 77% of irrigation. Governance reforms and land tenure security were identified as primary accelerators for UA adoption and improved food security.
Food sovereignty & justiceCommunityPolicyClimate changePráticas pedagógicas para o desenvolvimento da consciência ecológica entre crianças e adolescentes
2026Cledir Aparecida Gottwitz, Franciele Foschiera Camboin · Dialnet (Universidad de la Rioja) · Global
This study analyzed pedagogical practices aimed at developing ecological awareness among children and adolescents in basic education through a literature review of school experiences. Practical activities, school gardens, and interdisciplinary projects were identified as strategies that enhance student participation and strengthen their sense of environmental responsibility. The findings indicate that integrating scientific knowledge with everyday experiences is essential for establishing continuous environmental education.
Food educationCommunityClimate changeModificações na Paisagem: Impactos sociais e climáticos
2026Henrique Freitas Ferreira Reis, Ana Lorena Demarques Moura, Maria Rita Scotti Muzzi, Eleonora Sad de Assis · RCMOS - Revista Científica Multidisciplinar O Saber · Brazil (Belo Horizonte)
This work analyzed the relationship between urban densification and microclimatic impacts, focusing on the Confisco neighborhood in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, which is susceptible to heatwaves, landslides, and food insecurity by 2030. A systematic literature review of 33 sources evaluated the feasibility of implementing green roofs as a nature-based solution to mitigate climate extremes and promote food security through urban gardens. Results indicate green infrastructure reduces surface temperatures by up to 10.46°C and retains up to 90% of stormwater runoff, while socially strengthening psychosocial resilience and food sovereignty among low-income families.
Climate changeFood sovereignty & justiceHealthCommunityKonsep Integrated Urban Farming System (IUFS) sebagai model pertanian perkotaan berkelanjutan
2026Luqman Darmawan, Edeng Hidayat, Asep Najmudin, Intan Meylan · Composite Jurnal Ilmu Pertanian · Indonesia (Bandung)
This study implemented and analyzed an Integrated Urban Farming System (IUFS) model on a limited 100 m² land area in Sukapura Village, Bandung City, Indonesia. Using descriptive-analytical and limited experimental methods over one production cycle, the IUFS model integrated hydroponics, Nile tilapia aquaculture, and local chicken farming. Results indicated that the hydroponic system achieved high and stable vegetable productivity, with tilapia pond water substituting liquid organic fertilizer without reducing crop yield. The tilapia and chicken subsystems demonstrated good growth performance and improved feed efficiency, forming an effective nutrient cycle overall.
Urban–rural linkageOrganic cycleFood sovereignty & justiceClimate changePengelolaanSampah OrganikBerbasis Maggot sebagai Strategi Pendukung Urban Farming Berkelanjutan di Pamekasan
2026Sustiyana Sustiyana, Teguh Soedarto · Jurnal Agrosains Karya Kreatif dan Inovatif · Indonesia (Pamekasan)
This study aimed to analyze the influence of access to organic waste, training and education on waste management, government policy support, environmental and social awareness, and business opportunities on income and environmental preservation in sustainable urban farming in Pamekasan. Conducted at Roemah Maggot Nusantara, which uses Black Soldier Fly maggots for organic waste management, the study used multiple linear regression analysis. Results showed that all independent variables simultaneously had a significant effect on income and environmental preservation. However, partially, only environmental and social awareness had a significant effect, while access to organic waste, training and education, government policy support, and business opportunities did not show a significant effect.
Limited or null effectOrganic cycleCompostClimate changeEconomicsFrom Impact Accounting to Accounting for the Loops: Activating Sustainable Communities for Climate Action
2026Dario Cottafava, Francesco Marengo, Giuseppe Emiliano Di Martino, Laura Corazza · Business Strategy and the Environment · Global
This study introduced a social impact accounting framework, "accounting for the loops," for sustainability education for climate action (SECA), applying it to a university-led community garden case study. It found that a sense of belonging and personal recognition activate positive reinforcing loops. However, project size and community autonomy counterintuitively triggered balancing loops, leading to increased bureaucratic obstacles and institutional support needs, which negatively impacted participant motivation.
Governance failureCommunityClimate changeFood educationPolicySCHOOL GARDENS AS A TOOL FOR TRANSFORMATION
2026PAULA CRISTINA BOUFLEUHER VERGUTZ, Mario Ramão Villalva F’ilhi, Davi José Nicaretta Boufleuher · Revista Gênero e Interdisciplinaridade · Global
This article argues that school gardens, specifically the Organic School Garden project, serve as a strategic initiative for Environmental Education (EE) in Early Childhood. Using an Action-Research methodology, the project aims to address Food and Nutritional Security (FNS) laws by producing fresh food and promoting food autonomy. It concludes that this approach empowers children as agents of change, teaching them sustainable food practices.
Food educationFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityClimate changeCultivating Sustainability: A Phenomenological Study on School and Home Gardens as Community and Social Enterprise Hubs
2026Salome O. Planco, DHCM, MAN, RN, Arbee M. Sincuya, Florentino C. Abaya, Edna S. Fajardo, Mary Jane C. Gutierrez, Grace D. Zaldua, Vicky Presentacion M. Pacete, Gliceria A. Yu, Gaudencia M. De Villa, Rosenia Dela Cruz Francisco, Amparo I. Lim, Leadie P Andalan · International Journal of Research Publications · Global
This study investigated the experiences of various stakeholders in starting and maintaining school and home gardens using a phenomenological qualitative approach. Through focus group discussions with 15 stakeholders (5 teachers, 5 parents, and 5 community members), the findings showed that these gardens serve as platforms for environmental preservation, education, teamwork, and revenue generation. Despite obstacles such as a lack of funds, time, and resources, the combined commitment of stakeholders ensured continuous advancement.
CommunityFood educationEconomicsClimate changeAdaptive communal space in cities
2026OECD · OECD regional development papers · Global
This paper examines adaptive communal space (ACS), such as community gardens, as (semi-)public spaces collectively managed by local communities to meet evolving needs. Drawing on interviews, surveys, and literature, it argues that ACS shifts urban development towards shared stewardship and local problem-solving, contributing to social connectivity, environmental management, economic opportunities, cultural activity, temporal adaptability, and institutional flexibility. The paper emphasizes that ACS effectiveness relies more on institutional conditions like legal certainty and governance than on spatial form.
CommunityPolicyEconomicsClimate changeDesigning for ecological aesthetics in urban agriculture: Operationalising ecodesign principles across multilayer city landscapes
2026Xiaoxuan Ren, Tetiana Bulhakova · Art and Design · Global
This study developed a theoretical and practical framework integrating ecological aesthetics into urban agriculture design. Using a mixed-methods approach combining literature review and analysis of existing urban agricultural spaces, a structured ecodesign framework synthesizing aesthetics, ecological function, and resilience was established. It was found that sensory qualities like color, texture, and rhythm, along with cultural meaning, can enhance biodiversity support, food production, and climate regulation without compromising ecological integrity.
BiodiversityClimate changeCommunityPolicyAssessment of Carbon Dioxide Reduction and Air Quality Improvement through Rooftop Farming in Urban Areas
2026K. C. Sahu · International Journal of Environment and Climate Change · Global
This study assessed carbon dioxide reduction and air quality improvement through rooftop farming in urban areas over five years (2021-2025). It observed lower CO2 concentrations in rooftop farming areas compared to non-vegetated urban areas, where CO2 levels were recorded at 449 ppm in the township. Dense plant growth on rooftops reduced CO2 by absorption during photosynthesis, contributing to fresher air and improved environmental quality.
Climate changeUrban–rural linkageÓvoda 4500 m²-en : Az Atelier Apeiron Múzeum-Erdei Óvodája, Sencsen, Kína
2026Imre Ferenc Szűcs · Metszet · China (Shenzhen)
Atelier Apeiron's 4,500-square-metre Museum Forest Kindergarten in Shenzhen, China, is presented as a high-density urban design case study. The project addresses strict site constraints through vertical organization, stacking 15 classrooms across three levels to optimize climate, light, and airflow. This vertical structure, which utilizes rooftop gardens, serves as a comparative example for European architects evaluating urban constraints.
BiodiversityClimate changeFood educationA(GR)TECTURE: Designing an Agricultural Learning Facility to Energize Food Production in the Urban Areas of Dominica
2026Kendel Constant · DigitalCommons - Kennesaw State University (Kennesaw State University) · Dominica
This thesis explores improving Dominica's urban agricultural sector, examining challenges like hurricanes, landslides, temperature shifts, limited adoption of advanced farming techniques, an aging farmer population, and soil erosion. The proposed Agricultural Learning Facility aims to address these issues by leveraging smart farming methods and enhancing traditional practices. However, the proposed greenhouse and hydroponic systems cannot completely replace traditional farming practices, but rather help increase food production.
Governance failureFood educationCommunityClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceEcological landscape planning in earthquake-prone regions: Integrating agriculture, water systems and green ınfrastructure
2026ŞEVVAL KARATAŞ, Mustafa Artar · Scientific Works · Global
This study, based on a literature review, examines ecological landscape planning approaches for enhancing urban resilience in earthquake-prone regions. It proposes integrating agricultural areas, water systems, and green infrastructure as complementary ecological components within a holistic planning model. The findings indicate that this integrated approach enhances ecological integrity, supports biodiversity, regulates surface water, reduces the urban heat island effect, and strengthens communities' adaptive capacity in post-disaster phases.
Climate changeCommunityFood sovereignty & justicePolicyFloodable Park Landscape Model as Adaptive Infrastructure: Integrating Blue-Green Technology and Community Education for Urban Flood Mitigation in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia
2026Ina Winiastuti Hutriani, Muhammad Saddam Ali, Zulvita Amanda, Susan Krisanti, Bagas Arianto, Cindy Romauly Elysabeth Manurung, Muhammad Arya Wibowo, Luthfie Adli Wistoro · Research in Education Technology and Multiculture · Indonesia (Bandar Lampung)
This study proposes a floodable park landscape model integrating blue-green infrastructure with community education programs for urban flood mitigation in Bandar Lampung City, Indonesia. Focusing on Barunaria Field in Panjang District, field surveys and resident interviews identified low infiltration capacity, high runoff coefficients, acidic soil, waste accumulation, and noise pollution as contributing flood factors. The proposed modular design integrates rain gardens and permeable pavements with social and agricultural zones, including urban farming, functioning for recreation and food production during dry periods and as a retention system during the rainy season.
Climate changeCommunityFood educationUrban Agriculture and Participatory Budgeting for Sustainable Cities: Evidence from Vegetable-Related Projects in Warsaw
2026Kinga Kimic, Magdalena Błaszczyk · Sustainability · Poland (Warsaw)
This study identified and assessed vegetable cultivation projects submitted to the Warsaw Participatory Budget (WPB) between 2015 and 2023. The research classified projects into six types and evaluated them across social, functional, ecological, and economic dimensions. The results showed that vegetable-related projects in the WPB were decidedly niche, with only 101 initiatives submitted and 31 implemented, primarily focusing on education for children rather than direct food access.
Limited or null effectPolicyCommunityEconomicsClimate changeIrrigação Inteligente em Hortas Urbanas
2026Luiz Arthur Malta Pereira, A. Lindner, Käthery Brennecke, Marco Antonio de Andrade Belo, Amanda Prudêncio Lemes · Revista de Tecnologia & Gestão Sustentável · Global
This study developed a low-cost, intelligent irrigation device for urban gardens, integrating soil moisture sensors and real-time weather data to optimize water use. The prototype, built on an ESP8266 platform with C++ programming, was initially tested in a laboratory, confirming satisfactory operating conditions. The system aims to reduce water waste and promote sustainability in urban agriculture, with future validation planned for commercialization.
Digital agricultureClimate changeApplying recovered nutrients and pruning waste to enrich and regenerate agricultural soils in urban agriculture: Effects on emissions and yield of spinach and sweet potato
2026Guido Evangelista, Juan David Arosemena, Gaia Stringari, Joan Romanyà, Xavier Gabarrell, Francesco Orsini, Gara Villalba · Agriculture Ecosystems & Environment · Global
This study evaluated the application of 150 t ha-1 of ramial chipped wood (RCW) to degraded peri-urban agricultural soils, comparing its effects on yield, soil health, and greenhouse gas emissions for spinach and sweet potato. Spinach grown with RCW showed the lowest productivity (1.16 – 0.32 kg m-2) among treatments, while sweet potato achieved the highest yield (1.72 – 1.99 kg m-2). High RCW doses initially led to higher CO2 emissions but significantly reduced N2O emissions for spinach (from 0.36 kg ha-1 to 0.07 kg ha-1) and enhanced soil organic carbon and nitrogen stocks for sweet potato, indicating agronomic and environmental trade-offs.
Environmental trade-offsOrganic cycleCompostClimate changePeri-urban agricultureGreen 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 changeCommunityBiodiversityAssessing the links between climate change resiliency and food security in northwestern region of Bangladesh
2026Abhi Sarker, Salman Ibn Yasin, Bikash Chandra Ghosh, Gershom Endelani Mwalupaso, Asma Akter, Emmanuel Kiprop, Liu Z, Farjana Eyasmin, Geng Xianhui · Agricultural Economics (Zemědělská ekonomika) · Bangladesh
This study examined the impact of climate resilience on food security among 498 farming households across 16 villages in extreme climate zones of northwestern Bangladesh. Using a climate resilience index and a binary logistic model, the findings indicate a positive association between climate resilience and food security. Urban households showed greater resilience (38.7% food secure) than rural ones (32.8% food secure).
Climate changeFood sovereignty & justiceUrban–rural linkageTransforming horticultural productivity with organic manures in geotextile vertical farming
2026ANZUMAN RAHMAN NITU, Sohel Rana Mazumder, Abul Hasnat Muhammad Solaiman · Journal of Bioscience and Environment Research · Bangladesh (Dhaka)
A study conducted from December 2019 to April 2020 at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, evaluated organic manure-based substrates in geotextile vertical farming for mint, chili, and Indian spinach. The substrate combining vermicompost, coco fibre, and soil consistently enhanced the growth and yield of all three crops, producing the highest yields per plant compared to other treatments.
Organic cycleCompostClimate changeDigital agriculture