Publication Date
Spring 2003
Degree Type
Master's Project
Degree Name
Master of Urban Planning (MUP)
Department
Urban and Regional Planning
Abstract
The issue of urban sustainability is a crucial one, particularly in poorer urban communities with limited socio-economic and environmental resources. The underlying goal of this research project is to provide a framework of relevant information for the development of sustainable urban agriculture systems as a tool for improving the quality of life of the urban poor.
Two different infrastructure contexts will be presented, with the intent of relating the applicability of Urban Agriculture initiatives to the enhancement of destitute urban communities in both the developed and developing worlds. A number of successful case studies will be referenced in each developmental context.
Although previously seen as a crutch to urban progress and sophistication, urban agriculture is starting to become recognized by the world community as one viable urban development option (Sawio and Spies, 1999), as noted by the following statement by the World Commission on Environment and Development (1987):
Officially sanctioned and promoted, urban agriculture could become an important component of urban development and make food available to the urban poor. The primary purpose of such promotion should be to improve the nutritional and health standards of the poor, help their family budgets (50-70 percent of which is usually spent on food), enable them to earn some additional income and provide employment. Urban agriculture can also provide fresher and cheaper produce. more green space, the clearing of garbage dumps, and recycling of household waste, (p.254)
Recommended Citation
Brantley, Neil S., "Operation G.R.U.B.: Gardens Replace Urban Blight - An Ecological Alternative for Addressing the Health, Socio Economic, and Environmental Needs of At-Risk Communities" (2003). Master's Projects. 1662.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31979/etd.jz5Zxaha
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_projects/1662
