Our global food system disconnects consumers from the production of their food, both physically and mentally. ØsterGRO creates a point of connection and a relationship between producer and consumer.
Main results / outcomes
ØsterGRO is an organic rooftop farm and part of a larger network of urban food initiatives (figures 1 and 2). It is organized according to the principles of community-supported agriculture (CSA). This model, and the larger network it is part of, increases the economic security for the farmer. The opportunity to volunteer at the farm and the personal relationships that develop between consumers and producers connects the citizens to the food they might otherwise take for granted
Practical recommendations
Bringing food production into our cities through an urban CSA can benefit both the producers and consumers. By implementing urban farming initiatives, consumers’ knowledge and connection to the food can be enhanced, enabling them to make more sustainable choices. The CSA model itself provides economic security for small-scale farmers, and the increased connection between the consumers and the food can contribute to creating a consumer preference for sustainable production. An important lesson from the ØsterGRO case is that the economic feasibility of innovative urban food initiatives can be greatly enhanced by forming networks. By combining a number of CSA schemes and other activities, such as restaurants, the economic stability of the whole system can be ensured.
If you want you can download this practice abstract or click and discover more practice abstracts!