As global populations increase and environmental issues escalate, Australians are increasingly turning to urban farming, transforming their backyards into sustainable gardens. This trend, highlighted in a recent report by Canvas8, a global strategic insights practice, reveals a grassroots movement that not only addresses rising living costs but also champions environmental stewardship and community resilience.
The report, titled “Why are Aussies growing their own food?” and authored by Melbourne-based Sarah Wei, includes expert insights from sustainable development expert Christopher Fullon, award-winning global permaculture educator Morag Gamble, and multi-talented artist Taj Scicluna. It explores how urban agriculture is becoming a viable solution to alleviate pressure on traditional food supply chains while promoting self-sufficiency.
Urban Farming: A Sustainable Solution
Urban farming in Australia has gained traction across diverse demographics, from rural communities to urban dwellers, driven by the desire for fresher, healthier, and locally sourced produce. According to a study by Sustain Australia (October 2022), individuals and households now comprise 60% of the community sector and 77% of commercial operators in the country’s burgeoning urban agriculture landscape.
Christopher Fullon of Australian Urban Growers observes, “People understand that freshly harvested food is often more nutritious and flavorful. Consumers also want to get away from a world that uses heavy and dangerous chemicals that damage the environment.”
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The appeal of urban farming extends beyond economic benefits. With the cost of basic groceries rising by 7.5% in the past year, many Australians are turning to homegrown solutions to supplement their food supply and reduce reliance on supermarket chains. This movement towards self-sufficiency has been amplified by the pandemic, with 40% of Australians expressing concerns about food security adopting home gardening practices.
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Morag Gamble, founder of the Permaculture Education Institute, underscores the multifaceted benefits of urban agriculture, which comprises a mix of homegrown, government, and commercial ventures: “A mix of all is important for food security and sustainability. The more we grow locally using regenerative methods of permaculture design, the more sustainable the food system will become.”
Community and Business Collaborations
The surge in urban farming has also sparked collaborations between communities and businesses, fostering innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture. Companies like Bupa have partnered with Australian Urban Growers to support community initiatives, offering composting and gardening workshops to promote health and wellness among their teams and aged care residents.
Recognizing the importance of native plants and traditional knowledge, urban farmers are integrating indigenous practices into their gardening techniques. This cultural exchange not only preserves traditional wisdom but also enhances the nutritional diversity of locally grown produce. By championing native plants, businesses can tap into a growing market for sustainable and culturally authentic foods.
Nick Morris, UK-based founder and Managing Director of Canvas8, remarked, “As urban farming continues to gain momentum in Australia, stakeholders across sectors are exploring opportunities to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. The shift towards local and organic foods underscores a broader societal shift towards conscientious consumerism, with Australians increasingly prioritizing products that align with their values of sustainability and community support.”
The full report, “Why are Aussies growing their own food?”, is available for download for a limited 2-week period here.
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