Futuristic urbanism-integrating farming into urban landscape for sustainable development

Abstract

Unscientific urban expansion and the resulting population growth is phenomenally changing the landscapes of cities and presenting critical challenges. Unplanned urban growth is placing ever increasing demands for better liveable conditions related to housing, transportation, water, food, energy, employment, social infrastructure amenities, etc. As a result, most of the urban areas, transition areas and ru-urban fringe areas are witnessing steady increase in the conversion of farming land leading to degradation of the urban environment while creating food security concerns. Food demands of urban areas are traditionally supported by their hinter lands and surrounding rural areas. Majority of urban area’s food equivalences are affected by its multi-cultured social fabric implying that the demand for food is diverse. Against this background, this paper analysis the correlation between urban farming and supporting the food demands in urban areas. Further paper discusses critical challenges and various potential opportunities available for promoting urban farming as a significant tool in encouraging balanced sustenance of urban areas through proactive and innovative methods.