Perception on Community Gardens Across the World: What Literatures Say

Community gardens are collaborative spaces where individuals work together to cultivate fresh, healthy, and affordable produce. Rooted in the broader practice of urban agriculture, which encompasses traditional farming, allotment gardens, and rooftop agriculture, community gardens are increasingly recognized for their role in addressing food security challenges, fostering social cohesion, and promoting ecological balance. Community gardening has become popular worldwide and received the attention of the scholars on its application to alleviate global food insecurity. Literature from across the world underscores their potential to alleviate food deserts in urban environments, as well as highlights significant disparities in the spatial distribution and accessibility of community gardens, raising concerns about equitable access to their benefits. Moreover, studies challenge their effectiveness as a standalone solution to food insecurity, emphasizing the need to align community garden programs with the specific needs and circumstances of low-income populations. Participation motivations, land-use planning, and long-term sustainability are additional critical factors shaping the success of these initiatives. To address these gaps, future research must focus on the design, governance, and stakeholder relationships that influence the overall effectiveness of community gardens in achieving food security and broader community goals.