Written by: Aryan Bharucha
Edited by: Thomas Lusa
Designed by: Suhana Shaik
Published by: Andrew Jackson
What is Urban Agriculture?
Urban agriculture refers to the harvesting of crops within an urban environment. Urban Agriculture has been rising in popularity due to the benefits that come with taking part in it. These benefits include supplying fresh produce to a large population, fewer emissions which are created through transporting produce, and extra jobs for individuals who struggle to find one within a competitive area. Expanding urban agriculture will allow the world to become much more environmentally friendly, so let’s look at some organizations in Ontario which practice urban agriculture!
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
Being the capital of Ontario, Toronto is an extremely populated city, having over 3 million residents. Obtaining produce would be much more difficult as well as expensive if it were to be shipped in. Instead, the TRCA decided to take action and are currently taking care of 10 watersheds throughout the Greater Toronto Area. These are responsible for helping crops grow through providing healthy soil for crops. This practice allows local produce to be grown, creating jobs for people who are looking for one within the competitive city!
City of London
Home to one of the most prestigious business programs in the world, Ivey Business School, they are bound to have a large population. Although urban agriculture was not popular within the area due to its slow rise in development, the city of London is implementing new laws to support urban agriculture practices. In 2017 these laws encouraged the community to help grow crops through removing prohibited access to gardens, the ability to sell produce and flowers from your front door, and the development of new community gardens. Through these methods, the city of London is bringing the community together while increasing the supply of fresh crops and produce!
Conclusion
Urban agriculture has become a more popular practice within urban communities, and for good reason. It promotes community engagement and environmental sustainability. So, if you’re ever looking to make an impact within your community, consider volunteering for an organization that practices urban agriculture!
Resources:
- https://www.nal.usda.gov/farms-and-agricultural-production-systems/urban-agriculture
- https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/international/topic/urban-agriculture
- https://conservationontario.ca/conservation-authorities/watersheds-101#:~:text=A%20healthy%20watershed%20conserves%20water,habitat%20for%20wildlife%20and%20plants.
- https://london.ca/sites/default/files/2021-06/Making%20Urban%20Agriculture%20Easy%20June%202021%20JMF.pdf
- https://www.londonenvironment.net/urban_agriculture
- https://www.farmthecitylondon.com/what-is-london-urban-agriculture-strategy#:~:text=More%20Sustainable%20City-,Urban%20Agriculture%20in%20London%3A%20A%20Comprehensive%20Plan%20for%20a%20Healthier,%26%20promotes%20social%20justice%20%26%20equality.
Image Credit:
- https://www.torontomu.ca/news-events/news/2021/12/the-urban-farms-living-lab-is-alive-with-research/
- https://trca.ca/conservation/urban-agriculture/
- https://www.patchlondon.ca/resources-information