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Cultivating Inclusivity in Urban Community Gardens

Project description

Inclusive urban gardens grow diversity and sustainability

Urban Community Gardens (UCGs) have the potential to strengthen ties, boost mental and physical well-being, and support sustainability. However, many of these gardens struggle to reflect the diversity of the communities around them. This limits their potential as truly inclusive spaces. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the INCLUDE project aims to develop a new inclusivity conceptual framework, an evaluation index, and a practical toolkit. These resources will be designed to guide policymakers and planners to create fairer urban spaces. Informed by intensive empirical research in Vancouver, and demonstrated through a real-world case study in Oxford, INCLUDE strives to make cities more inclusive and resilient, advancing the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Objective

This project addresses a critical and timely gap in urban sustainability by focusing on inclusivity in Urban Community Gardens (UCGs), which are increasingly vital communal spaces for social cohesion, mental and physical health, and sustainability. Despite their growing role, the inclusivity of UCGs remains under-examined, with many failing to reflect the diversity of their communities. The urgency of this research is underscored by global efforts to meet the United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11, which calls for inclusive, safe, and resilient cities. Using a mixed-methods approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative data, alongside a co-creation framework with community stakeholders, this project will develop an innovative Inclusivity Conceptual Framework, Inclusivity Evaluation Index (IEI) and an Inclusive UCG Toolkit. These tools will offer practical, evidence-based solutions for local authorities, urban planners, and policymakers to create more inclusive green spaces, address inequalities in community garden access, and align with global sustainability goals, positioning UCGs as key drivers of inclusive, equitable urban development. The project’s real-world impact will be demonstrated through an Oxford Impact Case Study, where the findings will directly inform urban planning practices and policies. The project will enhance my career development through advanced training in interdisciplinary research and international collaboration, equipping me to lead future projects and secure multinational grants as an independent academic.

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Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-GF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - Global Fellowships

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01

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Coordinator

OXFORD BROOKES UNIVERSITY
Net EU contribution
€ 375 035,40
Address
HEADINGTON CAMPUS GIPSY LANE
OX3 OBP Oxford
United Kingdom
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
€ 375 035,40

Partners (1)