Europe Embraces Urban Farming and Food Sharing for Sustainable Living
Urban farming and food sharing are on the rise in Europe, driven by local traditions and EU research initiatives. With a focus on sustainability, European cities are increasingly adopting practices like urban farming and communal food activities to promote local, more sustainable produce. These initiatives not only contribute to improving human diets but also aim to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. Through the choices made by urban authorities, residents, and volunteer groups regarding food production and consumption, cities can drive positive change in the food system.
One example is the food forest in Rijnvliet, a neighborhood in the Dutch city of Utrecht. In this neighborhood, residents have access to a food forest where they can gather various ingredients like passion flowers, pears, herbs, and apples. The community has come together around food-related activities, including a group of artists who organize events like pizza-making using ingredients from the food forest. Projects like this are gaining popularity as people recognize the importance of local, sustainable food sources.
The CULTIVATE research project, funded by the EU, aims to promote sustainable food sharing throughout Europe. Over a four-year period, the project focuses on mapping and monitoring food-sharing initiatives across the continent. By using artificial intelligence and an online platform called Sharing Solutions, the project brings visibility to these initiatives and reports on their environmental and social goals. The goal is to create awareness and appreciation for food sharing and encourage its adoption on a larger scale.
Another prominent example of food sharing in Europe is the Food Not Bombs collective in Gdansk, Poland. Volunteers collect perishable food that would otherwise go to waste and cook soup, which is then offered for free to tourists and homeless people. The SHARECITY research project, supported by the EU, has compiled a comprehensive record of food-sharing initiatives worldwide, including urban gardens, community kitchens, surplus food distribution, and seed sharing.
Urban agriculture and community food-sharing initiatives offer more than just access to fresh produce. They promote a sense of community, encourage active participation, and provide mental health benefits. Community gardens, for instance, have been linked to reduced loneliness and increased well-being among participants. However, these initiatives often go unnoticed and aren’t adequately supported by official plans and policies.
Initiatives like the FOOD CITIZENS project, led by Leiden University in the Netherlands, seek to explore the broader benefits of urban agriculture. The project investigates people’s involvement in farming and food culture in European cities. For example, in Rotterdam, a land trust allows households to collectively own and cultivate land for organic farming. Participants learn from the farmer, assist in the cultivation process, and share the harvest based on its size.
Throughout Europe, different approaches to self-organized food initiatives have emerged. Food forests are particularly popular in the Netherlands, while urban allotments for growing vegetables continue to thrive in places like Poland. These initiatives not only provide access to locally grown food but also allow people to reconnect with nature, develop relationships, and acquire new skills.
As Europe aims to establish a sustainable food system, urban farming and food sharing play a crucial role. With the majority of the population living in cities, urban areas have the potential to drive positive change in agriculture and consumption patterns. By prioritizing sustainable practices, promoting local procurement, and embracing communal food activities, Europe can make significant progress towards achieving its environmental and social goals.
