Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
5543 results(5 / 222)
Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Urban Agriculture: A Case Study of Farmer Training Program for Resettled Refugees
2026Joonmo Kang, Euijin Jung, Cheryl Holmes, Benjamin Carpenter, Kristin Selby · Journal of Community Practice · United States (Kansas City)
A case study was conducted on New Roots, a farmer training program for resettled refugees and immigrants in Kansas City, USA. The research team participated in the program for a year before interviewing farmers and staff to gain insights into the program's impact. Findings revealed that farmers were drawn to New Roots for its flexibility, perceived benefits for mental well-being, and opportunities for social connection. The program was shown to offer a path to independence and cultivate a sense of community among participants.
CommunityWelfareFood educationCommunity 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.
CommunityHealthPolicyKajian Kinerja Kelompok Tani dan Manfaat Pertanian Perkotaan di Wilayah Kota Bogor
2026Sukma Aprilia Islami, Tati Budiarti, Afra Donatha Nimia Makalew · Jurnal Lanskap Indonesia · Indonesia (Bogor City)
This study in Bogor City, Indonesia, identified agricultural landscapes in six districts and around farmer groups' gardens, analyzing environmentally friendly urban agriculture practices and benefits. Data from 40 farmer groups and Sentinel-2 image analysis showed South Bogor had the largest agricultural land (10.70%) and Central Bogor the smallest (0.04%). While farmer groups adopted environmentally friendly systems, the application of technologies faced challenges related to cost and technical knowledge.
Governance failureCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceOrganic cycleClimate changeA 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 changeHealthBiodiversityCommunityAprender com a Terra: a horta como prática pedagógica em Educação Ambiental e Alimentar na Educação Infantil
2026Vívian Ariane de Oliveira Costa, Raíssa Aline Pereira, Mariana Azevedo Rabelo, Paula Montenegro Euzébio, Angela Liberali Pinheiro, Gabriella Ribeiro · Revista Brasileira de Educação Ambiental (RevBEA) · Brazil
This article reports on a school garden implemented in Early Childhood Education at Cirandinha School, in partnership with the Poços de Caldas Botanical Garden Foundation, after in-person classes resumed post-COVID-19. Using a qualitative and descriptive approach, the experiment aimed to promote critical environmental education and healthy habits. Results indicated active participation by children, increased autonomy, and environmental awareness, showing the garden as an integrative resource linking school, family, and community.
Food educationCommunityHealthBiodiversityWilding 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.
BiodiversityCommunityFeeding 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 failurePolicyEconomicsCommunityA University–School Partnership Model for Sustainability Teacher Training: Integrating School Gardens into Basic Education
2026Yadeneyro de la Cruz Elizondo, Reyna Nirvana Montiel Rodríguez, Rosa María Arias Mota, Nancy Domínguez González, María de los Ángeles Chamorro Zárate · Sustainability · Mexico (Veracruz)
In Veracruz, Mexico, a university-school partnership model for teacher training in integrating school gardens into basic education was evaluated. A mixed-methods design involved a diagnostic survey of 71 teachers and subsequent training workshops for 34 teachers. Results showed high teacher motivation despite limited institutional infrastructure, and training strengthened pedagogical capacities. However, the integration of school gardens into formal curricula remains limited due to structural constraints and insufficient teacher preparation.
Governance failureFood educationCommunityPolicyINFLUENCING FACTORS OF FARMER'S DIGITALIZATION READINESS IN SURAKARTA: AN INTERPRETIVE STRUCTURAL MODELING APPROACH
2026Lusi Handayani, Rifka Atmajaya, Asnawati La Hisi, Risca Metanifa, Najma Arum S. Lessy, Aisyah Yunisa Amir Hamzah, Nissa Rawindadefi, Hendra Okta Randi, Usmina Wonda, Ali Akbar Wahab, Sisilia Dorcelina Sapranim, Refa Andrean Tri P., Maftuh Rahmah Hanifa, Fitriana Riscadewi Warisno, Maria Adriane Bengan, Ina Aplena Marani, Aventus Purnama Dep, Amida Maria Baibaba, Rahmaniar Nur Syahib · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Indonesia (Surakarta)
This study investigated the digitalization readiness of urban horticultural farmers in Surakarta, Indonesia, using Interpretive Structural Modeling and MICMAC analysis with data from 20 key informants. Five principal factors were identified: agricultural technology availability, digital literacy, training and capacity building, institutional support, and government involvement, with government involvement being the dominant driving force. The study proposes four strategic interventions to support digital transformation.
Digital agriculturePolicyCommunityFood educationFood Sharing in Brighton & Hove
2026Jennifer Lyons, Anna Davies · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · United Kingdom (Brighton & Hove)
This report presents sustainability impacts of Food Sharing Initiatives (FSIs) in Brighton & Hove, UK, combining data from CULTIVATE’s Food Sharing Map and submitted Sustainability Impact Assessment (SIA) data. FSIs are community-driven projects enabling collective food activities and skill exchange. The CULTIVATE project developed "The Toolshed" to assess FSI sustainability impacts across social, environmental, economic, and governance pillars. The report notes that the presented indicators are a subset of total impacts, and urban-scale estimations will improve with more SIA data.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justicePolicyEconomicsModel dan Tata Kelola Pertanian Kota Berbasis Ekonomi Hijau pada Rumah Susun di DKI Jakarta
2026Aliyah Revitaningrum Revitaningrum, Arif Rizqi Azhari, Ahmad Arifuddin, Derryl Fadhlurrahman Abdul Rozzaq · PENA BANGSA Bisnis dan Tata Kelola Publik Adaptif · Indonesia (DKI Jakarta)
This qualitative literature review aimed to formulate a conceptual model for integrating urban agriculture and green economy principles in apartment housing in DKI Jakarta, Indonesia. Based on previous studies, the findings suggest that urban agriculture can be implemented through a modular vertical bioclimatic skin concept. This model has the potential to improve energy efficiency, reduce water consumption, support carbon-emission reduction, strengthen food resilience, create green economic opportunities, and enhance social cohesion.
CommunityOrganic cycleClimate changeEconomicsDiversity 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 educationCommunityThe 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 educationDIYDAMPAK PENGEMBANGAN KEBUN KOMUNITAS TERHADAP PRODUKTIVITAS PANEN, DIGITALISASI TRANSAKSI, DAN PENGELOLAAN LIMBAH: PKM SAUNG ASRI 2 DI JAKARTA UTARA
2026Sasti Permata, Asri Ardiati Sunoto, Septiani Juniarti · Jurnal Abdi Insani · Indonesia
This community service program at Kebun Saung Asri 2 in North Jakarta transformed an unproductive space into a productive green area through citizen initiative. Activities included socialization, training, technology implementation (hydroponics, drip irrigation, composters, QRIS), and mentoring. The program resulted in increased harvest productivity, diversification of processed products, strengthened community institutions, active community participation, and the creation of an educational and social green space.
CommunityEconomicsOrganic cycleDigital agricultureUrban Farming Berbasis Teknologi Sensor dan Platform Dagang Lokal untuk Kedaulatan Pangan Semarang
2026Karla Katina Salim Nohkarsan, Caroline Noel Amaris Purnomo, Karyn Gracia Hartono, Mellia Harumi, Gelbert Jethro Sanyoto · Praxis Jurnal Sains Teknologi Masyarakat dan Jejaring · Indonesia (Semarang)
This study designed two systems to support food sovereignty in Semarang, Indonesia: a sensor-based urban farming system for real-time plant condition monitoring with automatic nutrient supply and pH adjustment, and a digital local trading application for direct sales of local produce to consumers and searching for nearby urban farmers. The research was conducted through observation studies, deep interviews, and literature reviews.
Food sovereignty & justiceCommunityDigital agricultureEconomicsEl 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 & justiceToward digital community economies: California’s alternative food networks navigating market digitalization
2026Sasha Pesci, Ryan E. Galt · Agriculture and Human Values · United States (California)
This paper, based on 28 semi-structured interviews with direct market farmers in California, explores their experiences with market digitalization. It finds that while some farmers perceive online tools as eroding social and environmental connections, others view them as supportive of these connections, highlighting tensions in market digitalization for Alternative Food Networks.
Economic viabilityDigital agricultureEconomicsCSA & TeikeiCommunityTides 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 changePublic perceptions on the role of urban green space development and management in Gondar City, Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia
2026Getaneh Bizuayehu, Kassahun Gashu, Belete Debebe · Sustainable Futures · Ethiopia
This study investigated public perception of the economic, social, and environmental roles of urban green space (UGS) development and management in Gondar City, Ethiopia, using household surveys and semi-structured questionnaires. Most participants strongly agreed that UGS provides raw materials (54.5%), creates employment (54.5%), attracts businesses (53.5%), aids food production (51.8%), and increases government revenues (51.7%). Socially, UGS was strongly agreed to improve healthy lifestyles (64.3%) and promote mental health (60.1%). Environmentally, strong agreement was found for UGS reducing climate change impacts (89%), improving urban forests (78%), and mitigating urban heat island effects (75.3%). Chi-square tests showed most demographic, socio-economic, and biophysical factors were not significantly associated with these perceived roles.
EconomicsCommunityPolicyURBAN 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 changeHealthPolicyHuertos urbanos comunitarios y su contribución al escalamiento agroecológico en una ciudad intermedia: un estudio de caso en Jovel, San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapas, México
2026Jesús De la Rocha Illanes · Revista de Estudios Urbanos y Territoriales IBU · Mexico (San Cristóbal de Las Casas)
A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive study was conducted on four community urban gardens in San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico, to understand how agroecological scaling occurs and what practices comprise it. The research found that agroecological scaling in these gardens is essentially horizontal and deep, occurring at a microsocial level, person-to-person, and intergenerationally; however, the vertical facet of this process appears to be weakened. Agroecological practices include collective/collaborative composting of organic matter, ecotechnology engineering, links with local socioeconomic and solidarity networks, digital presence, reintegration of agricultural ceremonies/rituals in the urban context, and collective actions against eviction attempts.
CommunityOrganic cycleBiodiversityFood sovereignty & justiceSocio-Economic Dimensions of Urban Agriculture in Jos Metropolis, Nigeria: Farmer Characteristics, Cultivation Practices, and Operational Constraints
2026Gwamzhi Ponsah Emmanuel, Kabati Danjuma Madaki, Abadu Afinli Manasseh, Murna Joy Tikuna Dawarga, Sabaina Oluwakemi Gabriel, Pwajok David Jang · International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews · Nigeria (Jos)
This study examined the socio-economic dimensions of dry-season market gardening (fadama) in Jos Metropolis, Nigeria, through interviews with 65 farmers, site reconnaissance, and observation. The farmer population was diverse, with 63% lacking formal land ownership, and intensive year-round cultivation of temperate vegetables was observed. Ten operational constraints were identified, including pest and disease pressures reported by all respondents, land tenure insecurity, expensive fertilizer supply (20-30% of costs), and a near-total absence of formal policy recognition and extension support.
EconomicsCommunityFood sovereignty & justiceHousehold Perception and Mode Choice in Urban Agriculture: Evidence from Machakos County, Kenya
2026Stephanie Akeyo Nyapela, Everlyn Chitechi Wemali · East African Journal of Agriculture and Biotechnology · Kenya (Machakos County)
A cross-sectional mixed-methods study in Machakos County, Kenya, from June to September 2024, surveyed 388 households to identify urban agriculture (UA) modes and assess household perception's influence on UA adoption. Results showed 46% of households engaged in UA, primarily home-based with cost-effective techniques, and household perceptions significantly affected UA adoption. Positive perceptions influenced the adoption of mixed crop and animal farming systems, but not animal-only practices.
Food sovereignty & justiceCommunityPeri-urban agriculture