Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
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Community‐Supported Agriculture in Brazil: Co‐Responsibility in Agroecological Production to Strengthen Food Security
2025Rita de Cássia Lisboa Ribeiro, Cecília Rocha, Andhressa Araújo Fagundes · Urban Planning · Brazil
An integrative literature review investigated the potential of Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) to promote food security in Brazil. CSA can ensure a decent income for family farmers, reducing social vulnerability, and shows significant potential for promoting food sustainability due to its strong influence from agroecology. However, CSA faces a significant limitation in the elitization of this movement, reflecting historical social inequalities where only a relatively small portion of the population can afford healthier food.
Economic viabilityCSA & TeikeiFood sovereignty & justiceEconomicsHealthClimate changeSafety in a person-centred, garden-based art therapy group for people with dementia
2025Jenny Clarke, A Crosbie, K Green · International Journal of Art Therapy · Global
This practice paper describes an ongoing, weekly garden-based art therapy group for people with dementia, facilitated in a community garden. Using a person-centred approach, the facilitators explored factors contributing to psychological safety, drawing on client feedback, artwork, and observations. Findings indicated that the non-clinical garden setting provided calming effects, inspiration, and focus, while the person-centred approach fostered expression, communication, and feelings of value and success, despite some challenges inherent to the outdoor environment.
CommunityHealthElderlyUrban Agriculture: A Pathway for Enhancing Food Security and Poverty Resiliency in Tanzania
2025Francis Mwaijande · African Journal of Empirical Research · Tanzania
This study, using a mixed-methods approach with 600 respondents from urban and peri-urban farmers and agri-food supply chain producers in Tanzania, confirmed urban agriculture's contribution to food availability, accessibility, stability, and utilization. However, it found that urban agriculture is not well-integrated into urban food and poverty reduction policies in Tanzania and is practiced without legitimate policy and legal frameworks. This policy gap indicates an inadequate policy enabling environment for urban agriculture to enhance food security.
Governance failureFood sovereignty & justiceWelfarePolicyHealthPendampingan Gerakan Masyarakat Menanam Sayur (Gemmas) Untuk Peningkatan Gizi Dan Pemanfaatan Lahan Tidur Berbasis Urban Farming Di Desa Banjarbendo, Sidoarjo
2025Indarwati Indarwati, Jajuk Herawati, Tatuk Tojibatus S, Medita Johana Pakula Bafiqi, Surya Ari Widya · Agricultural-Animal Science Innovation and Empowerment Journal · Indonesia
This Community Service Program assisted the Banjarbendo village in Sidoarjo, Indonesia, to utilize approximately 20 hectares of idle land for urban farming, aiming to improve community nutrition and food security. Using a participatory method, the program engaged partners in growing various vegetables with donated seeds and seedlings. Evaluation showed increased community awareness and understanding regarding the use of idle land for healthy vegetable production.
CommunityFood sovereignty & justiceHealthFood educationANALISIS FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI PARTISIPASI MASYARAKAT DALAM PENGELOLAAN URBAN FARMING DI KOTA SURABAYA
2025Rico Yanuar Ardiansyah, Hamidah Hendrarini, Wahyu Santoso · Jurnal Ilmiah Sosio Agribis · Indonesia (Surabaya)
A study in Surabaya City, Indonesia, analyzed community participation in urban farming among 50 respondents from three farmer groups from April to June 2025, using Importance Performance Analysis. While urban farming performed optimally in ecological, socio-cultural, educational & tourism, and health aspects, the economic aspect showed the lowest performance and largest gap. This indicates a need for strengthening outcome management, market access, and community economic empowerment to optimize economic contributions.
Economic viabilityCommunityEconomicsHealthFood educationCONTRIBUTION TO KNOWLEDGE ON THE CONTAMINATION OF BRS LEILA LETTUCE (L. SATIVA) BY LITHIUM CARBONATE (LI₂CO₃)
2025Paula Marques Crelier, Manoel Jerônimo Moreira Cruz, Danusia Ferreira Lima · Seven Editora eBooks · Global
A controlled laboratory experiment cultivated BRS Leila lettuce (L. sativa) in samples contaminated with lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃) at concentrations of 150 and 200 mol/L. The study found that lithium correlates with other alkaline and alkaline earth elements in the leaves and roots of the lettuce. This indicates a contamination pathway where lithium is absorbed by the plant.
Contamination & food safetyCommunityHealthPeri-urban agricultureModeling phenolic compound distribution of flaxseed in the Sobat River Floodplain
2025Francisco Dela Cruz, Corazon Magno, Reynaldo Soriano · International Journal of Horticulture and Food Science · Global
This research modeled phenolic compound distribution in eight flaxseed genotypes cultivated in the Sobat River Floodplain during the 2023 season. Total phenolic content ranged from 8.4 to 16.7 mg gallic acid equivalents per g dry weight, with the seed coat contributing 64.2% of free phenolics. Urban gardening trials showed composting-amended substrates increased total phenolics by 13.8%. A predictive model explained 72.3% of total phenolic variance, and supply chain simulations indicated 8.6% phenolic losses over 60 days.
DIYCompostHealthPerceptions of Urban Agriculture (UA) practices among Malaysian urban dwellers: an exploratory study in Klang Valley
2025Ahmad Hanis Izani Abdul Hadi, M Nasir Shamsudin, Alias Radam, Yahya Awang · Universiti Putra Malaysia Institutional Repository (Universiti Putra Malaysia) · Malaysia (Klang Valley)
An exploratory study in Klang Valley, Malaysia, surveyed 875 urban dwellers to identify factors influencing their perceptions of urban agriculture (UA) practices. Using Exploratory Factor Analysis, the study found that perceptions are shaped by six key factors: social and health impact, quantity and quality, environmental impact, economic impact, dietary preferences, and land utilization.
CommunityHealthEconomicsPolicyThe Participatory Occupational Justice Framework and Illustration of Its Use
2025Gail Whiteford, Michael Sy, Rod Charlie Delos Reyes · · Philippines
This chapter discusses the Participatory Occupational Justice Framework (POJF, a new theoretical model developed to guide occupational therapists in community-based settings. It describes how occupational therapy has expanded beyond biomedical contexts to include community gardens and other settings, aiming to address occupational injustices and ensure equitable access to opportunities. The chapter provides a case study illustrating the POJF's application in community-based and institution-based programs in the Philippines.
CommunityWelfareHealthPolicyFamily Food Security through Urban Farming in Housing Complexes
2025Anita Kristina, Muhamad Abdul Jumali · Jurnal Pemberdayaan Masyarakat dan Komunitas · Indonesia (Sidoarjo)
A community service program targeting residents of RT 13 in the Bumi Candi Asri housing complex in Sidoarjo, Indonesia, aims to improve family food security through urban farming. The program involves training and mentoring residents on utilizing limited land to grow vegetables and other productive plants. Its objectives are to increase access to healthy and nutritious food, strengthen family food self-sufficiency, and raise awareness of the importance of a sustainable lifestyle.
Food sovereignty & justiceFood educationCommunityHealthAssessment of Municipal Solid Waste Compost Used In Urban Agriculture and Its’ Potential Public Health Impacts In Katsina City, Nigeria.
2025Aminu Zakariyau, Murtala Rabiu · International Journal of Advances in Engineering and Management · Nigeria (Katsina City)
The potential ecotoxicological impacts of municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) on soil, plants, and humans in urban Katsina, Nigeria, were assessed. Analysis of soil mixtures and plant biomass (maize and beans) revealed high phytotoxicity in beans, while maize considered MSWC as phytonutrients. No statistical difference in non-biodegradable substance concentrations in soils and plants was found, and ecological risk index (ERI) indicated low risk; however, Target Hazard Quotients (THQ) suggested a likelihood of non-carcinogenic effects to the ecosystem.
Contamination & food safetyCompostHealthOrganic cycleBiochar–Compost blends modulate trace element and nutrient dynamics in rooftop farming systems under Mediterranean conditions
2025Medina Veliu, Hugo López-Romano, Giuseppe Picca, Marco Panettieri, Eduardo Moreno‐Jiménez, Denis Courtier‐Murias, Liliane Jean‐Soro, Johnny Gaspéri, Laura L. de Sosa · Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety · Spain (Madrid)
This study investigated the impact of biochar-amended composts on trace element and nutrient dynamics in rooftop farming systems by cultivating tomatoes, lettuce, and Swiss chard for three years on a Madrid rooftop. Six substrates derived from spent coffee grounds, coffee silverskin, and seaweeds, with and without biochar, were used. Results showed that biochar reduced plant uptake and leaching of trace elements, lowering arsenic uptake by up to 40% in seaweed-based composts. Biochar also improved nutrient retention, reducing phosphorus and nitrogen losses by 40% and 25% respectively.
CompostOrganic cycleHealthAtuação da nutricionista frente ao diabetes e hipertensão na Atenção Primária: práticas na residência multiprofissional
2025Polyana Rocha Oliveira, Dejeane de Oliveira Silva, Melissa Neves Tavares · Health Residencies Journal - HRJ · Brazil
This study described a nutritionist's experiences in preventing and controlling Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Arterial Hypertension within a Family Health Strategy in Brazil, from April 2023 to May 2024. Interventions included health education, various consultations, the implementation of a "Health in Motion" group, and the creation of a community garden. The community garden strengthened bonds and promoted direct food education among residents.
CommunityHealthFood educationCultivating health: the role of interventionist actions in promoting vegetable consumption among children
2025Letícia Malherbi Byczkovski, João Lucas Mota Nogueira da Costa, Daiana Novello · Caderno Pedagógico · Global
This study evaluated the effect of educational interventions on knowledge, consumption, acceptance, frequency of intake, planting of vegetables (focusing on endive), and help with culinary preparations among 260 schoolchildren aged 6 to 10 in public schools. The intervention based on setting up a school garden (G4) was the most effective, promoting a significant increase in knowledge about endive, acceptance, frequency of consumption, and involvement in planting a garden. Theoretical-practical activities (G2) and cooking workshops (G3) were effective in increasing children's knowledge of vegetables, but workshops also resulted in less willingness to try new vegetables.
Food educationHealthCommunityEstablishing a community garden in Miawpukek First Nation, Newfoundland, Canada: Research brief on soil contamination challenges and solutions
2025Robert J. Moriarity, Meaghan J. Wilton, Eric N. Liberda, Tim Drew, Ada John, Howard Jeddore, Atanu Sarkar, Jim D. Karagatzides, Leonard J. S. Tsuji · Journal of Agriculture Food Systems and Community Development · Canada (Newfoundland)
This study aimed to develop safe community garden sites in Miawpukek First Nation, Newfoundland, Canada, addressing potential soil contamination. Soil testing revealed inorganic arsenic levels exceeding Canadian agricultural guidelines. Hügelkultur-style raised beds with imported soil were used, resulting in undetectable arsenic in potatoes grown there, while potatoes from contaminated soil exceeded safety limits. Kale grown in both raised beds and native soil remained within safety limits.
Contamination & food safetyCommunityHealthFood sovereignty & justiceKnowledge and Perception on the Usage of Greywater for Backyard Cultivation of Native Herbs Among Residents of Ibadan North Local Government Area, Ibadan, Nigeria
2025Mumuni Adejumo · Journal of Health and Environmental Research · Nigeria (Ibadan)
This cross-sectional study surveyed 312 residents in Ibadan North Local Government Area, Nigeria, to document their knowledge and perception of using greywater for backyard cultivation of native herbs. The findings revealed that 70.7% of participants had poor knowledge about greywater and its use for cultivating local herbs, and 61% held a negative perception. Only 8% of participants reported having used greywater in their residence, with 70.8% of public servants specifically showing negative perceptions.
DIYHealthCommunityProefGroen (Taste Green/Test Green):A healthy diet can also be tasty and sustainable
2025Coosje Dijkstra, Jutka Halberstadt, Jaap Seidell, Arnoud Verhoefff · VU Research Portal · Netherlands (Amsterdam)
In a school garden in Amsterdam-Zuidoost, children were amazed when their teacher pulled a radish from the ground and ate it. Most children followed suit and discovered that their self-harvested salad was tasty without dressing.
Food educationHealthCommunity“Just Part of Being a Community”: Crafting Resilience in the City During COVID-19
2025Tamanda Chabvuta · Western Journal of Communication · United States
This paper examined resilience narratives about a community garden in a predominantly Black neighborhood in the United States during a period of recovery from COVID-19 disruptions. Applying the communication theory of resilience, the analysis revealed themes of honoring legacy, belief in community and sharing, maintaining external collaborations, and persistence despite a lack of internal involvement. The study highlighted the critical role of external collaborators and community history in resilience efforts.
CommunityHealthFood sovereignty & justiceWidespread practices and sustainability benefits of foraging in urban blue spaces of India
2025Sukanya Basu, Brenda Maria Zoderer, Harini Nagendra, Peter H. Verburg, Tobías Plieninger · Nature Cities · India
This study examined the extent and benefits of foraging in urban blue spaces across four major Indian cities through a survey of 1,200 users. It identified three forager groups—rare, occasional, and frequent—whose behaviors differed in frequency and practice. Women, the elderly, and marginalized communities most frequently collected, shared, cooked, and sold edibles. Frequent foragers emphasized benefits related to nutrition, income, culture, and social capital, while occasional foragers appreciated nature- and culture-related benefits, indicating urban blue spaces are vital for food access and resilience.
CommunityHealthEconomicsWelfareSocio-cultural benefits of an urban agriculture initiative designed for vulnerable populations in Tucson, Arizona
2025Nataliya Apanovich, Gene King, Ashley Limbaugh, Garrett Smith, Sandra Bernal · Journal of Agriculture Food Systems and Community Development · United States (Tucson)
This 10-week study in Tucson, Arizona, examined the role of a collaborative urban garden in addressing food security and social isolation among nine university students, refugees, and asylum seekers. Using pre- and post-study surveys, interviews, and observations, researchers found that both groups experienced positive impacts on food access and social connections. The results indicate that urban gardening creates pathways to empowerment and equalizes differences between the groups and society.
CommunityWelfareFood sovereignty & justiceHealthThe Rise of Urban Agriculture and Its Implications for Food Systems
2025Godswill Ntsomboh Ntsefong · IntechOpen eBooks · Global
This chapter examines the global growth and implications of urban agriculture. While urban agriculture enhances food security, it also introduces food safety risks from contaminated soils and infrastructure gaps. Challenges related to heavy metals, waste, and inadequate land planning are evaluated, and barriers such as land access and limited training for producers persist.
Contamination & food safetyFood sovereignty & justiceCommunityHealthEconomicsPolicyClimate changePerceived benefits and challenges of urban rooftop gardening in Dhaka city
2025Muhammad Ziaul Hoque, Md. Enamul Haque, Md. Roknuzzaman, Md. Safiul Islam Afrad, Md. Shamim Hossain, Md Farhad Hossain, Foyez Ahmed Prodhan · Annals of Bangladesh Agriculture · Bangladesh (Dhaka)
This study surveyed 63 rooftop gardeners in Uttara and Mirpur of Dhaka Metropolitan Area to assess their perceptions of urban rooftop gardening. Respondents were mostly old-aged retired professionals with postgraduate education and moderate experience. Key perceived benefits included safe and nutritional food, improved air quality, and enhanced family mental health. Major challenges identified were concerns about losing open spaces for children, difficulties in sourcing quality seeds, and a lack of training and technical guidance.
DIYHealthClimate changeFood educationFrom Food Desert to Food Security: Implementing Change through the Augusta Dream Center
2025Marté Antione Gifford · Scholars Crossing (Liberty University) · United States (Augusta)
A project at the Augusta Dream Center (ADC) in Augusta, United States, aims to design and implement a community garden, supplemented by local farmer partnerships. This initiative seeks to address food insecurity in the Central Savannah River Area by providing fresh produce, fostering nutrition education, and promoting long-term health equity, particularly in low-income and minority communities facing food deserts and food swamps. The project will develop a community garden for seasonal crops and education, supported by local farmer partnerships and workshops.
CommunityFood educationHealthWelfareFood sovereignty & justiceSpider Webs as Biomonitoring Tool for Heavy Metal Pollution in Diverse Environments: A Study in Kochi City
2025M Mohan Joseph, Archana T. Anil · Environmental Quality Management · India (Kochi)
This study evaluated spider webs from Cyrtophora cicatrosa and Pholcus phalangioides as biomonitoring tools for heavy metal pollution in urban, industrial, and semi-urban/agricultural areas of Kochi city, India. Analysis of web samples revealed site-specific variations in Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sn, and Zn concentrations, with high levels of Zn found in Eloor (7558 ppm) and Kizhakkambalam (4947.50 ppm). Zn and Sn were the dominant accumulated metals, indicating significant heavy metal contamination in these environments.
Contamination & food safetyHealthUrban–rural linkageInitiatives for Advancing Planetary Health Through Sustainable Food Systems: An Umbrella Review
2025Carmen Vargas, Danielle Brooke, Carolina Venegas Hargous, Rubén Fernández‐Rodríguez, Rebecca Bennett, Felice Jacka, Steven Allender · Obesity Reviews · Global
This umbrella review, covering 2015-2024 and including 20 systematic and scoping reviews, explored food system initiatives and their relationship with human health and sustainability outcomes. Most reviews focused on sustainable diets, food security, and urban agriculture. No clear trends emerged between intervention topics and outcomes, and only 15% of reviews reported on all three sustainability outcomes (economic, social, environmental) combined. The review identified a need for further holistic, multidisciplinary research on food system sustainability.
HealthClimate changeFood sovereignty & justiceEconomics