Sustainable Agricultural in an Urban Setting
Objectives
Madinah has been recognized with the Gold Level award by UN-Habitat for its innovative urban model that balances community, environment, and local traditions. The Sustainable Agricultural in an Urban Setting project aims to empower local food entrepreneurs and small-scale farmers while preserving the city’s culinary and agricultural heritage. Key objectives include promoting sustainable agricultural practices, combating desertification, strengthening food resilience, and enhancing urban livability through green spaces.
Scope and key Action
This initiative integrates urban green spaces and farmers’ markets into the city’s fabric, transforming them into multifunctional hubs. The project focuses on:
- Training small-scale farmers in sustainable agricultural practices tailored to arid landscapes. This involves efficient water management within the oasis, soil fertility enhancement, organic certification, and the cultivation of traditional crops such as date palms, honey, mint, basil, and spices—cornerstones of Madinah’s gastronomy.
- Developing innovative strategies to combat desertification, strengthen food resilience, and promote self-sufficiency.
- Mitigating urban heat island effects while creating recreational green spaces that enhance urban livability. These markets, supported by collaborations with the hospitality sector, showcase local products and celebrate Madinah’s gastronomic legacy.
Stakeholders
The project thrives on the collaboration of key stakeholders, including small-scale farmers and local entrepreneurs, who adopt sustainable practices and preserve traditional crops. Municipal, regional, and national entities provide essential financial and administrative support, while the hospitality sector promotes local products and strengthens connections between producers and consumers. Additionally, the UNESCO Creative Cities network fosters global collaboration and knowledge sharing to address common challenges in arid regions.
Expected Outcomes
- Adoption of eco-friendly farming techniques, preserving arid landscapes.
- Improved food resilience, reducing dependency on imports.
- Expansion of lush green spaces, enhancing the quality of life.
- Vibrant farmers’ markets, boosting local economies and community pride.
- Celebration and preservation of Madinah’s unique culinary and agricultural traditions.
Impact
This initiative exemplifies how cities in arid regions can thrive through sustainable practices, aligning with global goals for environmental and social development. Expanding urban green spaces improves air quality, reduces heat island effects, and creates recreational areas that promote healthier lifestyles. Sustainable urban farms boost food self-sufficiency, preserve agricultural heritage, and support farming families. By integrating modern techniques with traditional crops like date palms, the project fosters low-impact production, biodiversity, and a reduced carbon footprint. Local markets strengthen the circular economy, connect consumers with producers, and celebrate the region’s cultural legacy, positioning Madinah as a model for sustainable urban development.
