Peri-urban agriculture

Urban fringe %22agriculture%22 - geograph.org.uk - 26447

Peri-urban agriculture refers to the practice of cultivating crops and raising animals within or on the outskirts of a city or urban area. This form of agriculture plays a crucial role in the urban ecosystem, contributing to food security, urban greening, and the sustainable management of urban waste resources. Peri-urban farms can vary greatly in size and type, ranging from smallholder plots to larger commercial operations, and they often employ both traditional and innovative farming techniques.

Definition and Characteristics

Peri-urban agriculture is characterized by its location on the fringes of urban areas, where the rural and urban landscapes meet. This unique positioning allows for a blend of agricultural and urban economic and social activities. Peri-urban farms are typically more integrated with the urban economy than their rural counterparts, selling a significant portion of their produce directly to urban consumers. The proximity to urban markets offers distinct advantages in terms of reduced transportation costs and access to a large customer base.

Benefits

Peri-urban agriculture offers numerous benefits, including:

• Food Security: It contributes to the local food supply, enhancing urban food security by providing fresh fruits, vegetables, and livestock products to city dwellers.
• Environmental Benefits: These agricultural practices can help in managing urban waste through composting and recycling organic waste as fertilizer. They also contribute to urban greening, helping to maintain biodiversity and reduce the urban heat island effect.
• Economic Opportunities: Peri-urban agriculture creates employment and income-generating opportunities for urban residents, including women and the youth.
• Social Cohesion: Community gardens and urban farms can foster community engagement and social cohesion among urban dwellers.

Challenges

Despite its benefits, peri-urban agriculture faces several challenges:

• Land Use Pressure: Urban expansion and the rising value of land in peri-urban areas can lead to the displacement of agricultural activities.
• Environmental Concerns: The proximity to urban areas may expose crops and livestock to pollution and contaminated water sources.
• Lack of Policy Support: In many cases, there is a lack of clear policy and institutional support for peri-urban agriculture, making it difficult for farmers to access resources and services.

Future Directions

The future of peri-urban agriculture depends on the integration of sustainable practices and supportive policies. Urban planners and policymakers are increasingly recognizing the importance of peri-urban agriculture in urban food systems and are exploring ways to support and enhance its productivity and sustainability. This includes zoning laws that protect agricultural land use, investment in infrastructure, and programs that connect urban consumers with local farmers.

See Also

• Urban agriculture
• Sustainable agriculture
• Food security
• Urban planning