International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Preeti YH, SU Hemavathi, Anand KR, Ankit Pal, Arpitha HB and Gunashree GN

abstract
Growing food in a city or other heavily populated areas is known as urban farming. It refers to agricultural practices in urban and their peri-urban areas. It increases the availability of food for people in need by supporting and encouraging the establishment of gardens on unused land and space. This abstract delves into the diverse drivers that shape the proliferation of urban agriculture worldwide. One of the primary drivers of urban agriculture is the growing concern over food security and access to fresh produce in urban areas. As cities expand and populations increase, traditional food supply chains face challenges in meeting the demands of urban residents. Urban agriculture emerges as a viable solution to address these gaps by bringing food production closer to consumers, reducing transportation costs, and enhancing food sovereignty. Environmental considerations also play a significant role in driving urban agriculture initiatives. Concerns about climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss have led to a growing interest in sustainable food production practices. Urban agriculture, with its potential to mitigate carbon emissions, reduce food miles, and promote biodiversity through green spaces, aligns with the goals of environmental sustainability. Social and cultural factors contribute to the adoption of urban agriculture as well. Community-driven initiatives seek to reclaim vacant lots, transform underutilized spaces, and revitalize urban neighbourhoods through gardening and farming activities. Additionally, a growing interest in healthy eating, organic produce, and local food systems drives consumer demand for urban-grown foods, fostering the expansion of urban agriculture enterprises. In conclusion, the drivers of urban agriculture are multifaceted, encompassing food security concerns, environmental sustainability goals, social empowerment initiatives, consumer preferences, and supportive policy environments. Understanding these drivers is crucial for designing effective strategies to promote and sustain urban agriculture in diverse urban contexts.