Social benefits of urban agriculture in public open spaces: Experiences from Germany

Abstract

Contemporary cities face numerous challenges related to the degradation of public open spaces, the decline in the quality of urban life, and the weakening of social ties among residents. In this context, urban agriculture is increasingly recognized as an instrument of urban regeneration, as it enables the spatial, ecological, and social renewal of neglected and underutilized public open spaces. In addition to its ecological and spatial-functional benefits, urban agriculture contributes to strengthening social cohesion, social inclusion, citizen participation, and the sense of belonging to the local community. The aim of this paper is to highlight the social potential of urban agriculture in the regeneration of these spaces, particularly through the development of shared activities, cooperation, and social interaction among users. Special attention is given to two examples of good practice from Germany - Internationale Gärten Göttingen and Prinzessinnengarten - which were selected as relevant examples of the transformation of degraded spaces into community urban gardens. In this way, the paper emphasizes the importance of urban agriculture as both a spatial-functional and a social instrument for the regeneration of public open spaces.