Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
3086 results(6 / 124)
Growth and Yield Responses of Dragon Fruit to Diverse Growing Media in Rooftop Gardens
2026Md. Monirul Islam, Joydeb Gomasta, Md. Abdul Quddus, Asma Anwari, A. K. M. Saiful Islam, Md. Torikul Islam · New Zealand Journal of Crop and Horticultural Science · Global
A two-year pot experiment was conducted from 2020 to 2022 on the roof of a four-story building to identify an optimal growing medium for dragon fruit cultivation on rooftops. Seven different combinations of soil, cocodust, biochar, and vermicompost were evaluated, with the medium comprising 80% cocodust and 20% vermicompost (T2) showing the highest branch count, fruit count, fruit weight, and yield in the second year. T2 also improved edible portion, TSS, and vitamin C contents, and exhibited the highest benefit-cost ratio (4.17).
DIYCommunityEconomicsSupply chains, marketing channels, and distribution networks
2026Sylvie Ayimpam · · Congo (Kinshasa)
This chapter maps the multi-scalar supply chains feeding Kinshasa's markets, detailing how small retail functions as a nodal point. It traces historical and contemporary provisioning of local foodstuffs via road and river routes into urban wholesale hubs, examining peddlers, brokers, and 'ghost markets' that circumvent taxation. Distribution in Kinshasa is characterized by hybrid, shifting chains of intermediation combining logistical improvisation, social brokerage, and regulatory avoidance.
EconomicsUrban–rural linkagePeri-urban agricultureFood sovereignty & justiceExploring Motivations, Crop Diversity and Socioeconomic Benefits of Home Gardening: A Case Study of Urban Agriculture in Rimuka, Kadoma District, Zimbabwe
2026D Machoko, N Soboksa, M Zuma, X Mbhenyane · African Journal of Food Agriculture Nutrition and Development · Zimbabwe
This qualitative case study, conducted in June and July 2022 in Rimuka, Kadoma District, Zimbabwe, explored motivations, crop diversity, and socioeconomic benefits of urban home gardening among thirty purposively sampled households. It found more women participate than men, kale is a year-round staple despite water scarcity, and primary water sources are family wells and public boreholes. Most gardeners started due to food shortages or pandemic fears, and while many do not sell produce, they earn significant income from off-farm activities.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsMultifunctional zoning optimization of agricultural land use by coupling Bayesian belief network with density peaks clustering – a case study in Guangdong, China
2026Hao Yang, Zijin Wang, Yueming Hu, Zhengxi Tan, Runyan Zou, L. Wang, Xiaoyun Mao · International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability · China (Guangdong)
A study in Guangdong Province, China, coupled a Bayesian belief network with density peaks clustering to analyze agricultural land resources. The research identified significant synergies between food production function and other functions, but also a trade-off with food cleanliness. Consequently, Guangdong agricultural land was zoned into five functional zones.
Environmental trade-offsPolicyEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceUrban–rural linkageUrban 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 changePemberdayaan Masyarakat Urban Melalui Pemanfaatan Limbah Organik Menjadi Pupuk Serta Pangan Melalui Integrasi Maggot BSF Dan Ayam Di Kampung Telolet Om, Karangbesuki, Malang
2026Sri Suhartini, Bambang Susilo, Gabryna A Auliya Nugroho, Christina Wahyu Kartikowati, Ni’matul Izza, Riris Waladatun Nafi’ah, Ainur Ainur Rohma, Andhika Putra Agus Pratama · JAPI (Jurnal Akses Pengabdian Indonesia) · Indonesia (Malang)
In Kampung Telolet Om, Malang, Indonesia, a circular economy program integrating Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae and laying hens was implemented for 20 residents to address organic waste and food insecurity. The program processed household organic waste into BSF larvae feed, substituted chicken feed, produced organic fertilizers, and applied them to urban farming. Pre- and post-tests showed participants' knowledge increased from 44.12% to 53.82%, successfully reducing organic waste volume and producing food products.
CommunityOrganic cycleFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsStrategic Directions for Regenerative Urban Tourism in North Jakarta: An SLR-FGD and TOWS-Based Assessment
2026Dewi Gita Kartika, Ismayanti Ismayanti, Emilia Agustina, Fernando Adiputra Kadajaya Bos · E-Journal of Tourism · Indonesia (Jakarta)
This study examined how regenerative urban tourism can be strategically developed in North Jakarta, Indonesia, using a systematic literature review, focus group discussions with stakeholders, and TOWS analysis. North Jakarta was found to have relatively strong internal capacity (IFE = 3.04) and a favorable external environment (EFE = 3.16), placing it in a "grow and build" position. Strategic priorities include developing eco-tourism and urban farming based on community greening initiatives, strengthening cultural and heritage-based tourism, enhancing MSME digital capacity, and addressing environmental and infrastructure constraints like waste management and flooding.
CommunityEconomicsPolicyKokspilleri i kolonihaver: en kulegravning
2026Hikoline Hylleborg Erlandsen · Arbejderhistorie - tidsskrift for historie kultur og politik · Denmark (Copenhagen)
This article explores the little-known practice of digging for coke residues ("pillekoks") in Copenhagen allotment gardens during WWI and WWII. Using ethnological surveys from the 1970s and contemporary newspapers, the study shows this was a widespread practice with significant yields. Individual allotment owners could gather enough pillekoks with a value equivalent to several weeks’ wages, easing fuel scarcity and improving daily life during wartime.
CommunityEconomicsDigital community supported agriculture? Exploring a cooperative platform model for fair work and governance
2026Anne-Pauline de Cler · Internet Policy Review · Global
This paper explores the implications of a cooperative platform model for digital community supported agriculture (CSA) regarding work, governance, and accessibility within the solidarity economy. It examines what such a model entails as digital platforms increasingly integrate into CSA.
CSA & TeikeiDigital agricultureEconomicsFood Sharing in Brno
2026Jennifer Lyons, Anna Davies · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Czech Republic (Brno)
This report documents the sustainability impacts of Food Sharing Initiatives (FSIs) in Brno, Czech Republic, using data from CULTIVATE's automated Food Sharing Map and submitted Sustainability Impact Assessment data. The estimations cover environmental, economic, and social sustainability pillars. The report notes that the presented impact indicators are a subset of total impacts, and estimations will become more accurate with more submitted data.
CommunityFood educationEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceLow-Cost Automation Framework for Sustainable Hydroponic Farming in Urban Poly Houses
2026Mehul Kumar, Aryan Raj, Sivam Visnu, Nishant Upadhyay · DMPedia Lecture Notes in Multidisciplinary Research · Global
This paper presents an open-source automation framework for urban polyhouse hydroponic farming, costing under $100, featuring multi-parameter sensing and a dual-loop control strategy. Three replicated 42-day trials with Coriandrum sativum using nutrient film technique (NFT) showed a 27.5% ± 3.2% increase in fresh weight and 82% water savings compared to manual control (p < 0.05). Economic analysis indicated a 6.1-month break-even and 96% ROI in the first year.
Digital agricultureEconomicsClimate changeLand-market drivers of peri-urban land transformation in Mpingu and Malingunde extension planning areas, Lilongwe District, Malawi
2026Jabulani Nyengere, Frank Tchuwa, Harineck Mayamiko Tholo, Allena Laura Njala, Chawanangwa Mwakisalu, Lucius Malalu, Chikondi Chisenga, Patson Nalivata, Weston Mwase, Msaiwale Kathewera, Brenda Matewere, Lackson Jamu, Jones Kanjira, Macdonald Chabwera, D. J. Kachamba, Andrew Jamali, Takudzwa Musekiwa, Clement Nyirenda, Henry Kadzuwa, Precious Masuku, Agnes Mwangwela · Frontiers in Sustainable Cities · Malawi (Lilongwe)
In Mpingu and Malingunde Extension Planning Areas of Lilongwe District, Malawi, the drivers of peri-urban land transformation were investigated using land use and land cover maps for 2004, 2014, and 2024, alongside household survey data from 279 farming households. Spatial analysis revealed substantial landscape transformation over two decades, with natural woodland declining by approximately 66%, cropland expanding by approximately 459%, and built-up settlement areas increasing by approximately 127%. A multinomial logit model analysis found that land markets, spatial accessibility, and institutional conditions were the primary drivers of land transformation.
Peri-urban agricultureEconomicsPolicyUrban–rural linkageCost-effective urban farming with alternative water sources treated by nature-based solutions: A critical review of global practices
2026Niloofar Shoja Razavi, Kefeng Zhang, Veljko Prodanović · Agricultural Systems · Global
This review assessed the agronomic suitability and contaminant profiles of five alternative water sources (greywater, blackwater, groundwater, rainwater, and stormwater) for urban crop irrigation. Four nature-based solution (NBS) technologies (constructed wetlands, biofilters, green roofs, and green walls) were evaluated as pre-treatment systems, with hybrid systems demonstrating over 97% removal efficiency for contaminants. Economic viability was highly dependent on crop selection; high-value crops like tomatoes and sweet peppers irrigated with treated groundwater showed the greatest profitability, while faba beans remained unviable regardless of treatment. Policy analysis identified substantial governance gaps, including inconsistent enforcement, limited public acceptance, and minimal regulatory guidance specific to urban agricultural water reuse.
Organic cycleClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsThe Productive Carrier / 生产性载体 / Le Squelette Productif
2026Pierre Camugli · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · China
This trilingual working document proposes a valuation model for revitalizing dormant real estate assets in Chinese Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The model is based on converting unfinished or underutilized buildings into urban industrial agriculture units. It explores three strategic trajectories (5–7 years, 20–30 years, 30+ years) for transforming these structures into "Productive Carriers."
EconomicsPolicyUrban–rural linkageAttributes of Thriving School Gardens in the US
2026Jennifer Morrison Daspin, Mariela Jiménez-Rivero, Bonnie Martin, Michele Hockett Cooper, Katie Nikah, Lyndsey Waugh, J. N. Davis · Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior · United States
A cross-sectional survey of 364 US school administrators, teachers, and garden coordinators identified attributes predicting thriving school gardens. Logistic regression analyses showed that each additional subject and grade taught increased the odds to thrive by 21-22%, an annual budget over $1,000 by 42 times, and higher administrative support by 42 times. Administrative support, budget, volunteer support, and garden workdays are integral to garden sustainability.
Food educationCommunityPolicyEconomicsInovasi, Adopsi Teknologi, dan Perilaku Kewirausahaan Islami: Sebuah Tinjauan Sistematis
2026M. Ilham Zainullah, Ita Marianingsih · SANTRI Jurnal Ekonomi dan Keuangan Islam · Global
This systematic review, analyzing 25 articles from an initial 166 Scopus records, maps how innovation, technology adoption, and Islamic entrepreneurial behaviors intertwine and contribute to the SDGs. Findings show five complementary faces of innovation: process-organization, sharia business/finance models, financial and platform digitalization, technological innovation in business models (e.g., urban farming–aquaponics), and halal product/marketing innovation, driven by individual values, Islamic HRM, finance architecture, and digital literacy. The impact is multidimensional performance, access to ethical capital, halal market behavior, and social and religious environmental outcomes, with strong contributions to SDG 8 and SDG 9.
Digital agricultureEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceIntegrating Spatial Data and Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Resilient Urban Planning: Lessons from South Africa
2026Thembani Moyo, Vuyiswa Letsoko, Mhlalisi Gavu Mndzebele, Siphiwe Mbatha, Nonpumelelo Mzobe, Trynos Gumbo · · South Africa (Johannesburg)
In Johannesburg's marginalized settlements, limited infrastructure resources negatively impact household livelihoods, necessitating the development of planning support systems. Urban agriculture has emerged as a critical approach to enhancing food security and economic empowerment, and this study employed a mixed-method approach combining indigenous knowledge systems with spatial data to assess land suitability. The findings presented a land suitability index demonstrating how integrating GIS and citizen science strengthens urban resilience through adaptive land use, improved local food systems, and climate change mitigation.
Food sovereignty & justiceEconomicsPolicyClimate changeStrategi Kebijakan Pemerintah Kota Bandar Lampung dalam Penguatan Urban Farming dan Ketahanan Pangan
2026Eliza Eliza · DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) · Indonesia (Bandar Lampung)
This study analyzed the Bandar Lampung City Government's policy strategies for strengthening urban farming as an instrument of urban food security in Indonesia. Using a qualitative-descriptive approach and secondary data, key issues identified were households' high dependence on markets, suboptimal development of backyard and community-based urban farming, and weak integration of urban farming with the city's food security policies.
PolicyFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsCommunityAdaptive livelihood strategies of evicted peri-urban farmers in the newly metropolitan city of Ethiopia
2026Abie Assres Fenta, Habtie Anmaw · Discover Sustainability · Ethiopia (Debre Markos)
This qualitative study explored the adaptive livelihood strategies of evicted peri-urban farmers around the metropolis of Debre Markos, Ethiopia. Findings confirmed that farmers tend to hand over their land with insufficient compensation and are compelled to adapt to new livelihoods after losing farmlands. Many displaced young farmers experienced bankruptcy in new businesses due to a lack of business skills, and aged displaced farmers faced challenges adapting to new ways of life. The government did not provide adequate attention to training evicted farmers in technical, financial, and business planning.
Equity & displacementPeri-urban agricultureUrban–rural linkageEconomicsPolicyEnvironmental performance and methodological challenges of Rooftop Greenhouses: An introductory paper
2026Yizhi Zhang · · Global
This report systematically reviews the environmental performance of rooftop greenhouses, focusing on life cycle assessment (LCA) approaches. The review found that existing studies are limited, often case-specific, and use diverse methodologies, hindering comparisons. Environmental performance is highly context-dependent and influenced by methodological assumptions, with conventional LCA often failing to capture dynamic interactions between greenhouse operations, crop growth, and host buildings, leading to an incomplete representation of environmental performance.
Methodological critiqueClimate changeEconomicsDigital agricultureBusiness Strategies of Small Urban Farmers for Financial Sustainability and Growth: Basis for a Strategic Action Plan
2026Exequiel Campomanes, Ma. Rossdie Etis, Job Leroi Santiago, Reigne Tumbado, Mark Joseph Villamil, Jake Bitulia, Divina Gracia Cabaddu · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · Philippines
This qualitative study in the Philippines examined the profiles and business strategies of small urban farmers for financial sustainability and growth. It found that urban farming can be profitable, with all informants generating positive returns despite variations in techniques and capitalization. However, urban farmers faced challenges including personal, organizational, financial, operational, commercial, and fundamental issues, which they resolved through strategic analysis and implementation.
EconomicsCommunityPolicyPemberdayaan Ekonomi Kaum Difabel melalui Circular Economy Berbasis Komoditas Unggulan Daerah dan Kampanye Digital Inklusivitas
2026Budi Hartono, Hanung Eka Atmaja, Galy Hardyta, Brilian Setyo Utomo, Muhammad Lutvi, Amelia Cyntia Kusuma Wardhani · Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat (abdira) · Indonesia
This community engagement program in Indonesia aimed to strengthen economic and food self-reliance among persons with disabilities using a circular economy approach and an inclusive digital campaign. Employing a participatory-collaborative method, it showed substantial improvements in maggot production skills (30% to 80%) and food self-sufficiency (20% to 60%) among participants. While the digital campaign is in its initial stage, the program demonstrates strong sustainability potential for inclusive economic empowerment.
WelfareEconomicsFood sovereignty & justiceStrengthening urban resilience in the United States: community preferences for green rooftops integrating agriculture and solar energy
2026Natalie Meyer, Simona Trandafir · Journal of Environmental Economics and Policy · United States (Rhode Island)
A choice-based survey of over 600 US residents from Rhode Island examined preferences and perceived value for green rooftop (GR) space allocations for agriculture, solar energy, and recreation. Latent class modeling revealed that Class 1, representing 20% of respondents, was generally unsupportive of GR installation and expressed disutility towards GR space allocation for solar energy. Both classes uniformly favored allocating GR space for agriculture production and showed a positive willingness to pay for this feature.
Limited or null effectCommunityPolicyEconomicsClimate changeRagamuffin Geographies: A Critical View of Informal Green Spaces Against Formality in Chinese Cities
2026S Wang · Advances in Economics Management and Political Sciences · China
This qualitative literature review examines informal green spaces (IGS) in Chinese cities, contrasting them with formal, hyper-managed landscapes. The study finds that while formal lawns incur high financial maintenance burdens and lower biodiversity, IGS, including spontaneous urban wilderness and community gardens, are often cleared despite offering higher biodiversity and zero maintenance costs. The research highlights a governance dilemma where the prioritization of neatness over ecology leads to the removal of IGS, which support psychological place attachment and spatial justice for marginalized groups.
Governance failureCommunityPolicyBiodiversityEconomicsWelfarePemanfaatan Lahan Sempit Melalui Urban Farming Sebagai Upaya Mewujudkan Kemandirian Pangan Keluarga
2026Ivan Sanjiva Redy, Sri Subekti, Lenny Luthfiyah · AGRIFITIA Journal of Agribusiness Plantation · Indonesia (Surabaya)
This qualitative descriptive study examined the multi-sector integrated urban farming model implemented by the Mekarsari Farmers Group in Surabaya City, Indonesia. The group developed a model combining crop cultivation, fisheries, and household-scale livestock farming on limited urban land. Findings indicate that this multi-sector integration can increase household food availability, income, and strengthen family food security.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceUrban–rural linkageEconomics