Urban gardens are the art of cultivating fruits, plants as well as vegetables, in urban zones. It may take a variety of forms, ranging from communal gardens to rooftop gardens and vertical gardens to informal gardening. There are numerous of benefits urban gardening. These include cutting down on food miles, encouraging healthy eating habits, improving the quality of air, and providing community green spaces. It is not surprising that urban gardening is becoming more popular because people living in city centers seek ways to decrease their carbon footprint. live an eco-friendly lifestyle and enjoy fresh, nutritious food items.
At Earthed, We believe that there’s no one better suited to inform our community about Urban Gardening than Alessandro Vitale.
Who is Alessandro Vitale?
Alessandro Vitale is a renowned urban gardener who has transformed vacant areas, rooftops, roofs, and abandoned structures into flourishing gardens across cities around the globe. A Italian architect urban designer, architect and green entrepreneur, located within Milan, Alessandro has dedicated his entire career to urban agriculture and the redevelopment of abandoned urban areas. He is the creator of OrtiAlti, the project that converts abandoned rooftops into lush green spaces, as well as Green Island, an initiative that creates green spaces within the city’s heart. Vitale is an early pioneer in urban farming and has received numerous awards for his creative research in the area.
5 Successful Urban Gardening Initiatives:
Example 1: OrtiAlti, Milan
OrtiAlti the project, which was started by Alessandro Vitale in Milan, transforms rooftops that are not being used to productive garden. The project is an organic and sustainable diet for local population and also improves the air quality of the city. OrtiAlti has transformed over 10,000 square meters of roof areas located in Milan to productive garden. Producing more than 10 tons of fresh vegetables and fruits each year, they contribute an enormous contribution to the local population!
Example 2: The High Line, New York City
The High Line in New York is one of the most renowned urban gardens, as well as one you are likely to be familiar with. Its 1.45-mile-long elevated park is situated on the former rail line that runs along the west side of Manhattan. The park has more than 500 plant species and is an increasingly popular spot for visitors and residents. It is the High Line has transformed a abandoned space into a lively green zone that benefits the environment as well as the local community. The park is visited by more than 8 million people each year and is now an economic engine in the surrounding area.
Example 3: The Edible Bus Stop, London
The Edible Bus Stop is a community-based gardening initiative located in south London which aims to transform public spaces that are neglected into gardens that are productive. Since the project’s began 2011 it has expanded to encompass more than 30 gardens in London. The gardens provide fresh fruits and vegetables and are maintained by a group of volunteers. Edible Bus Stop Edible Bus Stop transforms spaces that were not used into vibrant community gardens that encourage healthy eating habits and social interaction.
Example 4: The Urban Farm, Brussels
The Urban Farm is an urban gardening venture located in Brussels that converts abandoned spaces to productive garden. The aim of the project is to provide affordable and healthy food options for the local population and also create an area of green in the middle of the city. Its Urban Farm has transformed over 1,000 square meters of empty areas into productive gardens and has become a favorite place for locals. The gardens yield more than two tons of freshly-picked fruit and vegetables every year. They are managed by a group made up of gardeners from the urban area.
Example 5: The Guerrilla Gardeners, Worldwide
Guerrilla gardening refers to the act of growing plants on land the gardener doesn’t have a legal right to utilize. This can include abandoned parking lots, or neglected public areas. Guerrilla gardening turns neglected areas into green spaces and is sometimes regarded as an act of activism. Guerrilla gardening is now an international movement that has groups of people in cities across the globe creating Guerrilla gardens that encourage sustainability and social involvement.