Sustainable Urban Gardening


Sustainable Urban Gardening

Author: Maria Fernandez

Environmental Science MSc

Institution: GreenLiving Institute, Spain


Overview
  • This course explores how to grow plants and food in urban environments.
  • Students will learn about vertical gardens, container growing, and sustainable watering practices.
  • By the end, participants will be able to plan and maintain a small, eco-friendly garden.
Objectives
  • understand principles of urban gardening
  • learn about soil health and composting
  • identify suitable crops for small spaces
  • apply water-efficient irrigation methods
  • promote biodiversity in urban areas
Glossary
Composting: the process of decomposing organic waste into nutrient-rich soil.
Hydroponics: a method of growing plants using nutrient solutions instead of soil.
Pollinator: an organism that helps plants reproduce by transferring pollen.
Mulch: material spread over soil to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Teaching materials
Urban Gardening Starter Guide (PDF) Not available
Case studies
Rooftop Gardens in Barcelona

Urban Green Projects

rooftop gardening sustainability

An initiative transforming city rooftops into vegetable gardens that reduce heat and pollution.

Community Composting Success Story

EcoGrow Journal

compost community waste reduction

Local residents collaborate to recycle organic waste into compost for public gardens.

Vertical Farming for Small Apartments

SustainTech Magazine

indoor farming hydroponics technology

Compact hydroponic systems enable fresh vegetable growth indoors year-round.

Case study links
  • Urban Sustainability Initiatives — Link not available
  • City Gardens Network — Link not available
Knowledge Check: Urban Gardening Basics
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