URBAN AGRICULTURE

 

URBAN AGRICULTURE:  THE FUTURE NEED

 

INTRODUCTION

 Everyone believes that urbanization is one of the biggest threats to biodiversity, today, growing food in towns and cities has been a small effort to conserve and protect the ecosystem. It is believed that more than half of the global population lives in urban areas, and this is expected to rise to 68% by 2050 , the gradual shift  of  human population from rural to urban areas is creating a paucity of  agrarian land resulting in the shift of cultivation. This new shift has taken a remarkable leap.  Covid 19 has  taught people the need to grow their own fruits and vegetables so as to opt for a healthy living.

 What Makes Urban Agriculture more Popular?

Urban agriculture has its popularity. Below are various reasons which address the need:

Ø  Local Availability of Food

With growing awareness of food quality and safety, people prefer fresh, chemical-free produce. Urban farming allows for vegetables and fruits to be harvested right where they’re consumed — often within hours of being picked.

Ø  Saving Environment

Urban agriculture is helping the ecosystem in

·         Reducing food transportation emissions (lower carbon footprint)

·          Coping to help in urban heat island effect

·         Promote biodiversity in cities

·         Supports the goal of making cities more climate-resilient and sustainable.

Ø  Space-Saving Innovations

Lack of space has led to innovations like vertical farming, hydroponics, and rooftop gardens. Food can now be grown in small urban spaces. Even balconies, walls, and unused roof tops have become productive gardens.

Ø  Strengthening Bonds

Urban life has been defined as self-centered life. Urban gardening concept has now reversed this concept. People are sharing their interests in gardening and produce making life easy and happy.

Ø  Gardening For Well being

Involvement in gardening presents various elements of physical exercise that have been shown to reduce an individual’s perception of stress and to improve overall mental health. Studies continue to show that gardening provides opportunities to interact with family members and other community members which is likely to rebuild social cohesion, community networks, and sense of community membership.This concept has also helped in improving general mental well being as well.

In Summary

Urban agriculture is more than just a trend — it’s a practical, sustainable response to the challenges of modern city life. With its environmental, social, and health benefits, it's no surprise that more people are planting seeds of change in the heart of their cities.