Urban Agriculture for Sustainable Poverty Alleviation and Food Security
S.S. Rakesh*
Dept. of Environmental Sciences, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (641 003), India
B. Balamurali
Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Manakkadavu, Pollachi, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (642 103), India
R. Murugaragavan
Dept. of Soils and Environment, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai Tamil Nadu (625 104), India
S.R. Shri Rangasami
Rice Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Ambasamudram, Tamil Nadu (627 401), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Climate change, Food security, Poverty alleviation, Urban farming
Abstract
The paper provides an updated insight on the role that urban agriculture can play in pursuing the Millennium Development Goals and more specifically MDG 1 and 7, related to poverty reduction, food security, and environmental sustainability. Reference is made to urban agriculture in relation to the recent and important issues affecting the world economy and the environment, regarding climate change, soaring food and energy prices. It intends to raise awareness and inform decision makers and planners of the different aspects of urban agriculture, which entails a broad range of activities, related to the food production and distribution chain, within natural resources planning and use including urban and peri-urban forestry. The paper intends to provide the necessary background that would facilitate further initiatives and recognize UPA as a means to improve the livelihoods of the urban poor.
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Reference
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