Urban Agriculture

The global movement towards urban agriculture is gaining momentum in the U.S. This shift towards growing food within city environments and prioritizing food justice calls for significant changes in how cities use resources and manage land. Research by scientists from the University of Florida has provided a theoretical framework for how communities can expand urban agriculture to enhance well-being and reduce food insecurity on the local level.

This shift is driven by a desire to combat climate change, promote healthier lifestyles, and foster social equity. Urban planners and community members need to be cognizant of these evolving local food systems. Understanding these changes is crucial for planning and implementing potential land use adaptations that can support and sustain urban agriculture initiatives. These developments not only reshape urban landscapes but also contribute to the environmental, health, and social objectives of communities. To learn more about planning for urban agriculture, read PAS Report 563, Urban Agriculture: Growing Healthy, Sustainable Places.