Bonnie Au is a mutlimedia journalist based in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong: Farmers forced to leave their land to make way for Hong Kong government’s redevelopment plan

30 Apr 2022  |  cityfarmer.info  |  English  |  Agriculture

The Hong Kong government is advancing a redevelopment plan for Tsui Keng, an agricultural area, to enhance drainage, irrigation, and access. Local farmers oppose the project, fearing pollution and criticizing the government for insufficient notice before clearing fields. The government counters by promising training and support to improve agricultural yields.

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Urban Development Agriculture Government Policy

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Ari Bendersky is a Chicago-based lifestyle journalist specializing in food, wine, music and travel and is the author of "1000 Food & Art Styling Ideas,” a coffee table book highlighting beautiful food photography. Ari, the former founding editor of Eater Chicago, has been writing for 20+ years and ...

Maxwells Trading brings seasonal food with an urban twist to the West Loop

30 Dec 2023  |  Crain's Chicago Business  |  English  |  Urban Agriculture

Maxwells Trading, a new restaurant by Erling Wu-Bower and Joshua Tilden, has opened in Chicago's West Loop, offering a diverse menu influenced by various cultures and cuisines. The restaurant is part of a collaborative building at 1516 W. Carroll Ave., which includes Third Season, a retail shop and coffee bar, Flashpoint Innovation, a food and beverage innovation hub, and The Roof Crop, an urban agriculture initiative. The building promotes sustainability and community engagement, with Maxwells incorporating produce from the rooftop farm into its seasonal menus.

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Urban Agriculture Restaurant Opening Sustainability

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Catherine Bennett is a freelance journalist currently based in Paris, France. Available for live coverage and reporting from France. Experience in stand up, translation, live interpretation, pieces to camera, phoners, liveblogging breaking news and in-depth feature reporting.

Europe's Largest Urban Rooftop Farm Flourishes in Paris Amidst the Pandemic

01 Jul 2023  |  City Monitor  |  English  |  Urban Agriculture

Nature Urbaine, Europe's largest urban rooftop farm, opened in Paris and had to adapt quickly when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, shifting from selling to local businesses to direct consumer sales. The pandemic highlighted the importance of local food supply, a sentiment supported by French President Emmanuel Macron. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo's support for urban agriculture and the '15-minute city' concept has led to the funding of new urban farms. Local producers like La Caverne benefited during the lockdown. Urban farms are seen as a tool for creating resilient cities and have environmental benefits. Critics argue about their cost-effectiveness, but proponents see them as a complement to rural agriculture. As Paris reopens, there's hope that local food consumption habits will persist.

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Urban Agriculture COVID-19 Pandemic Local Food Supply

Olivia Bizot is a French-British freelance journalist, experienced in TV, radio, print, social media and agency work.

Brazil: The community garden offering seeds of hope to Rio’s favela residents

26 Oct 2022  |  cityfarmer.info  |  English  |  Urban Agriculture

In Rio de Janeiro's Manguinhos favela, the largest urban community garden in Latin America provides affordable, pesticide-free produce to 800 families monthly. Despite the threats of violence, police raids, and deadly shootings in the northern favelas, observer Yuri Lopes Cruz views the garden as a crucial support system for the city's most vulnerable residents.

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Urban Agriculture Community Development Social Issues

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Experienced multimedia journalist and award-winning podcast producer. Bilingual in Russian, French, and English. Interest and understanding of environmental, human rights and social justice issues as well as Russia and the former Soviet states politics.

Creating Sitopia: a city built around food

28 Jul 2023  |  www.africanews.com  |  English  |  Sustainable Agriculture

Carolyn Steel, a British architect and author, advocates for 'Sitopia,' a concept of cities built around food to enhance food security and sustainability. Her ideas, detailed in her books, emphasize the need for economic and societal changes to prioritize food in urban planning. Chloё Dunnett, inspired by Steel, founded Sitopia Farm near London, focusing on sustainable farming without chemicals. The farm collaborates with local businesses and has seen significant growth, though it prioritizes environmental and social goals over profit. The podcast episode, funded by the European Journalism Centre and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, explores these themes and the broader implications for global food systems.

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Urban Planning Sustainable Agriculture Food Security

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Left

Political View

Francisco Ferreira is a image reporter based in Porto, Portugal.
Image Reporter with vast experience in information,  with news reports for several national channels, TVI, RTP, SPORTTV, and foreigners - DSF (Germany) , TVGalicia (Spain) , TVE (Spain) , NTN24 (Colombia), Euronews
Possibility to ...

Brazil presents food security programs in Europe

17 Jun 2023  |  agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br  |  Spanish  |  Urban Agriculture

Representatives from five Brazilian cities are in Europe to present their food security experiences as part of the 'Cities and Food: Governance and Best Practices to Boost Circular Urban Food Systems' project, led by Embrapa and funded by the European Union. The delegation will visit cities in Spain, Italy, and Belgium to exchange experiences and study sustainable urban food systems. Maricá, a municipality in Rio de Janeiro, is highlighted for its community gardens, which offer free food and encourage home cultivation, contributing to its recognition in global forums on urban agriculture and climate change.

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Urban Agriculture Food Security International Cooperation

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Elias Gebreselassie is a journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He works as a freelance reporter and contributor for Xinhua News Agency, Alertnet Climate Reuters, AlJazeera English online, AFP, New Humanitarian Mongabay and many other media outlets.

Anmol Irfan is a journalist based in Lahore, Pakistan. She has a BA in History from the London School of Economics. She is also the Founder of Perspective Magazine, an online magazine and community platform that seeks to empower marginalised voices and unheard stories in Pakistan. 
Her writing ...

Fieldwork is for poor people? Stupid prejudice, as these urban farming projects show

07 Sept 2023  |  perspective-daily.de  |  German  |  Urban Farming

In Cape Town and its surroundings, over 3,000 small-scale farmers are supported by the organization Abalimi Bezekhaya to grow food sustainably and organically for themselves and local markets, combating climate change and poverty. Urban farming, a global movement, is practiced in limited urban spaces with a focus on eco-friendly agriculture and fair working conditions. The initiative, which began in 1982 during apartheid, aims to provide marginalized groups with the means for food self-sufficiency. Christine Kaba's success story exemplifies the impact of Abalimi Bezekhaya's work. Similar initiatives are emerging globally to address the aftermath of colonialism and create fairer food chains. In Pakistan, Asad Mamdot's Mini Hectares and other community projects are promoting urban agriculture, while in Indonesia, Dery Pratama's Rad Farm faces challenges in scaling up sustainable production. Elie Mugisha of Verve Ag-Innovate in Rwanda seeks to strengthen local farmers and spread sustainable methods. The article underscores the need for government support to achieve systemic change in agriculture.

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Sustainable Agriculture Urban Farming Food Security

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I'm an experienced freelance journalist based in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Primarily a print journalist, but substantial radio experience as well. Exceptional writer with an eye for a good narrative and the telling details. I've most often reported on farming, food and science but have frequently ...

An Abandoned Quarry Above Rio's Olympic Village Finds New Life as an Organic Farm

01 Aug 2016  |  Modern Farmer  |  English  |  Urban Agriculture

An abandoned quarry in Itanhangá, Rio de Janeiro, has been transformed into a thriving organic farm by Anselmo, a former teacher turned farmer. Despite initial skepticism and significant challenges, Anselmo's farm, Orgânicos da Fátima, has become a successful venture, supplying fresh produce to restaurants, hotels, and farmers markets. The farm's success is a testament to urban agriculture's potential and has provided employment opportunities amidst Brazil's economic recession. The organic food sector in Brazil is growing, although it remains a small part of the market.

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Urban Agriculture Organic Farming Olympics

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Edmund Kagire is a journalist based in Kigali, Rwanda. The 35-year old award-winning Rwandan Journalist was until the end of 2018 was working with The East African & Rwanda Today newspapers owned by Nation Media Group (NMG), with 12 years of practice.

Currently he has diverted into freelance ...

Rwanda's Space Ambitions Aim to Boost Socioeconomic Development

27 Sept 2023  |  KT PRESS  |  English  |  Urban Planning

Rwanda is embracing space science and technologies to enhance its socioeconomic development, rather than for national prestige. The Rwanda Space Agency (RSA), led by CEO Col. Francis Ngabo, aims to utilize geospatial data for informed decision-making and policy development. During Rwanda Space Week, RSA highlighted its role in creating awareness and fostering partnerships. The agency has collaborated with Japan, OneWeb, SpaceX, and others to centralize satellite image collection for government entities. RSA's focus includes earth observation, smart agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management. They are also working with Starlink/SpaceX to improve internet access in rural schools. The RSA's future plans include building a Space Centre of Excellence, manufacturing satellites, and developing a space ecosystem. The agency's efforts are already aiding in urban development and disaster response, with a vision to further leverage space technology for the country's advancement.

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Smart Agriculture Urban Planning Space Technology Socioeconomic Development Geospatial Data Space Economy Disaster Management Infrastructure Development

Megy Karydes is a journalist based in Chicago, United States of America. Her byline has appeared in USA Today, Fortune, Forbes, Rodale's Organic Life, National Geographic's The Plate, The Atlantic's CityLab, Sierra, Midwest Living magazine, Travel + Leisure, Chicago Tribune, among others.

Building Community and Fostering Eco-Friendly Living in Chicago's Avondale Neighborhood

05 Apr 2023  |  www.nachicago.com  |  English  |  Urban Agriculture

The article focuses on the efforts of Christina Schleich, the founder of the Avondale Gardening Alliance (AGA), to foster community spirit and promote an eco-friendly lifestyle in Chicago's Avondale neighborhood. AGA is a network that encourages urban agriculture and hosts events like the Avondale Garden and Agriculture Fair to connect residents. The Insect Asylum, a local museum and event space, supports AGA by hosting events and offering a Little Free Plant Library. Both Schleich and Nina Salem, the founder of The Insect Asylum, emphasize the importance of personal connections and community involvement in creating safer and happier neighborhoods. The article also touches on the idea that everyone has something to contribute to their community, regardless of their skill set.

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Urban Agriculture Community Building Eco-Friendly Lifestyle Local Events

Stacey Knott is an award-winning multi-media journalist recently returned to New Zealand, after working in Ghana for five years. 

In Ghana, she was a regular text stringer for Agence France-Presse (AFP) and a multimedia freelance correspondent for Voice of America (VOA). 

Her byline has ...

Ghana's Under the Mango Tree Camp Teaches Kids About Ethical Agriculture

24 Jul 2019  |  Voice of America  |  English  |  Agriculture

In Accra, Ghana, the expansion of the city has led to a reduction in green spaces and an increase in fast food consumption. Lauren Goodwin, an agriculturist and founder of the Under the Mango Tree Camp, is addressing this issue by educating children about ethical agriculture and healthy living during their school holidays. The camp teaches children about composting, natural pesticides, and the process of growing food. Goodwin emphasizes the importance of involving children in conversations about food sources and the impact of diet on health, particularly in black communities. Parents have noticed that the camp is beneficial for their children, who are excited to share what they've learned. Goodwin's goal is to inspire the next generation to advocate for healthy food and ethical agriculture in Ghana.

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Urban Development Agriculture Education Health & Fitness

Gaia Lamperti is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

From basil to cannabis to GMOs, a guide to hydroponics in the city

13 Jul 2021  |  www.domusweb.it  |  English  |  Urban Gardening

Hydroponics, a soil-free cultivation technique, is gaining popularity for its efficiency and adaptability in urban environments. Experts like Pedro Brito and Stefano Sergiani highlight its benefits, including faster growth rates, reduced resource usage, and minimal maintenance. Companies like Tregren and Hydroinvent are leading the way with innovative solutions, while Winston Peki emphasizes its advantages for cannabis cultivation. Hydroponics is also being used for educational purposes and in developing GMO plants for medical use.

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Sustainable Agriculture Urban Gardening Hydroponics

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Christabel Lobo is a journalist based in Washington, United States of America.

The growing popularity of urban farms in Bangalore

01 Aug 2019  |  SilverKris  |  English  |  Urban Development

The article discusses the shift in Bangalore from its historical identity as the Garden City to the Silicon Valley of India, and the impact of urbanization on agriculture and the environment. It highlights the story of Prathibha Reddy and her family's farm, Kamadhenu Organic Farms, which has diversified its crops and faced challenges with middlemen. The article also covers the rise of organic farming and sustainable food practices in Bangalore, featuring businesses like back2basics, Healthy Buddha, and Go Native that are contributing to a more sustainable food ecosystem. It mentions the problem of urban farmers using polluted water and the efforts of local entrepreneurs to provide organic produce at reasonable prices. The piece also introduces Farmizen, an app that allows consumers to rent land and grow their own organic produce. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of mindful consumerism for Bangalore's sustainability goals.

Tags:

Sustainable Agriculture Urban Development Organic Farming Food Ecosystem

Journalist based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with experience in print, web, and video. Contributes for Draft and Projeto Colabora websites. Former reporter at Infoglobo company, also worked at Vozerio project. Interested about environmental, social and culture stories.

Engr M²-Nurudeen is a creative and multi-skilled Development award-winning Journalist with JoyNews TV/Joy FM?****, photographer/videographer, and Agric consultant, with experience that includes broadcast and print journalism, farming, Climate Change, Sanitation, Health, Technology & Food Security.
...

Ghana's Livelihood-Sustaining Shea Trees Now Threatened by Logging and Climate Change

02 Aug 2021  |  Earth Journalism Network  |  English  |  Rural to Urban Migration

The article discusses the plight of women in northern Ghana who, due to the declining shea tree population, are forced to migrate to cities like Accra in search of better livelihoods. Nafisah Wahab and Nuriya Zubaida are highlighted as examples of women who moved to the capital as head porters but returned home when city life proved too challenging. The shea tree, which is vital for the local economy and environment, is threatened by human activities and climate change. The article also touches on the efforts of organizations like Jaksally Development Organization and initiatives like grafting by the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana to address these issues. The impact of deforestation on wildlife and the environment is also discussed, with Mole National Park and NGO TalkTrees working on conservation and alternative livelihood programs. The article was supported by Internews' Earth Journalism Network and originally published by Joy Online.

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Agriculture and Livelihoods Rural to Urban Migration Economic Challenges Environmental Degradation Climate Change Deforestation Wildlife Conservation

Tunicia Phillips is an award winning multimedia journalist based in Johannesburg, South Africa. With ten years of broadcast experience in radio and two years in television, she now specialises in business, environment, climate change, mining and energy. She is currently authoring a book for Pan ...

Urban, diversified farming a key climate solution

08 Mar 2022  |  Food For Mzansi  |  English  |  Agriculture

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has released a new report emphasizing the urgent need for action to combat climate change and secure a resilient future. South Africa's climate commission, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, discussed the implications of the report's findings. Local scientists highlighted the risks and policy recommendations for climate-resilient development. The report, which is based on extensive scientific research, warns of the impacts of climate change on agriculture and food security, particularly in Africa where most agriculture relies on rainfall. It suggests that urban agriculture could be a key adaptation strategy. The report also notes that climate change has already caused significant losses in Africa, including reduced agricultural productivity. The IPCC authors stress the necessity of immediate global action to avoid missing the narrow window to ensure a livable future.

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Urban Agriculture Agriculture Climate Change Food Security Environmental Policy Scientific Research

I'm a journalist and communications specialist with over ten years of experience working in print, online, broadcasting, newswires and international development, creating and managing content, developing and managing communication strategies and campaigns for international organizations and ...

City Council Boosting Food Security in the Big Apple

01 Aug 2019  |  foodtank.com  |  English  |  Urban Agriculture

The New York City Council, led by Council Speaker Corey Johnson, is launching a comprehensive plan to address food security in New York City. The initiative aims to improve food policy, enhance school nutrition, and increase access to fresh produce, particularly in low-income and minority communities. Key components include expanding urban agriculture, reducing food waste, and supporting food programs like the Health Bucks Program and the FRESH program. The Council also plans to create an Office of Urban Agriculture and a citywide food policy overseen by the Office of Food Policy. The initiative has garnered support from local councilors, non-profits, and academics.

Tags:

Urban Agriculture Food Security Nutrition

Balanced

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Left

Political View

Jeremy Robson is a European journalist mainly focusing on video production and video journalism. He also has a passion for, and experience with, working on environmental topics as well as human rights, war and conflict, technology and innovation.

Taiwan is transforming unused metro stations into underground vertical farms

05 Oct 2022  |  euronews  |  English  |  Sustainable Agriculture

Taiwan is turning to vertical farming in metro spaces to meet the demand for sustainable, clean, and organic food. The 'Metro Fresh' hydroponic farm at Taipei’s Nanjing-Fushing Station is a 40 square-metre facility that grows lettuce using LED lighting, eliminating the need for pesticides and herbicides. Julia Yang from Unimicron Technology, the company responsible for the metro farm, highlights the benefits of hydroponic farming, including the absence of insect eggs. Vertical farming is gaining popularity in Taiwan due to the reluctance of the younger population to work in traditional agriculture, preferring technology sector jobs. Winnie Chan, deputy manager at Unimicron Plant Technology, reports a yield of 180 bags of lettuce per week. The efficient use of space is vital for Taiwan's growth and self-sufficiency, and such technologies could benefit other densely populated countries.

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Urban Farming Sustainable Agriculture Vertical Farming

Kamie Stephen is a journalist and photographer working in the Western Nebraska and Eastern Wyoming.

Growing walls add a touch of green to communities

01 Oct 2023  |  Star-Herald  |  English  |  Urban Agriculture

Farm Walls, a vertical growing system, are being introduced in Goshen County communities to enhance urban agriculture and beautification efforts. Funded by grants from the Wyoming Business Council and the USDA's Specialty Crop grant, these walls aim to boost local economies, support food insecurity initiatives, and provide educational opportunities. The project, led by Sandy Hoehn of the Goshen County Economic Development and Chamber, involves multiple local organizations and has received positive community feedback. The walls are designed and installed by Bio-Logic Designs, LLC, and are expected to increase business sales and community engagement.

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Urban Agriculture Community Development Economic Impact

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Marta Vidal is a journalist specialising in deeply reported features on social justice, human rights and environmental issues across the Mediterranean.  Her work has been published by The Guardian, Washington Post, BBC, Al Jazeera, DW, Mongabay and other outlets. 
Her portfolio: ****

The farming initiative promotes food independence in the country with the world’s oldest bread

07 Feb 2022  |  Al Jazeera  |  English  |  Agriculture

In Jordan, a grassroots initiative named Al-Barakeh Wheat, started by Zikra for Popular Learning, is converting unused urban land into productive wheat fields to promote food sovereignty. The project began in late 2019 and gained momentum during the strict lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing participants to grow and bake their own bread. Jordan, once a major producer of wheat, now imports over 97% of its cereals due to urbanization, market liberalization, and competition with cheaper imported wheat. The initiative not only aims to restore wheat cultivation and reduce dependency on imports but also to reconnect people with their land and traditional farming practices. It has seen success with hundreds joining the initiative and a local bakery selling bread made from 100% local wheat. The project embodies the concept of 'barakeh' or 'blessing', emphasizing sharing, cooperation, and community involvement in food production.

Tags:

Urban Farming Agriculture Food Sovereignty Food Security