GENGREEN EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS Programme Title: Urban Farmers
Target Group: Young people
Organisation: Organization Earth
Duration: 2 to 4 hours per session, adaptable depending on the depth of content and planting activities.
Summary A hands-on workshop on organic urban farming in spaces like rooftops and courtyards. Participants will explore sustainable food production, composting, and seasonal, local crops while engaging in practical gardening activities. The workshop fosters idea exchange and promotes urban agriculture as a key to sustainable city development.
Description Introduction & Icebreaker: Why urban farming matters: local food systems and sustainability in cities. Composting & Soil Preparation: Creating healthy soil using compost and natural materials. Planting Activity: Participants plant seasonal vegetables or herbs in small containers or garden beds. Urban Gardening Techniques: Tips for maintaining a rooftop or balcony garden, irrigation, pest control, and vertical gardening. Reflection & Exchange: Sharing thoughts, experiences, and gardening dreams; Q&A and troubleshooting common urban farming issues.
Objectives 1.Introduce participants to the principles and practices of organic urban farming. 2.Promote sustainable food production within city environments. 3.Encourage composting and use of natural fertilisers. 4.Support local and seasonal food awareness. 5.Build community through collective gardening and idea exchange. 6.Highlight urban farming’s role in resilient, green cities.
Challenges Accessibility of suitable urban spaces (sunlight, safety, permission). Weather dependencies for outdoor activities.
Impact Participants gain practical knowledge in sustainable urban agriculture. Empowerment to grow their own food, even in small urban spaces. Even in densely populated areas, enhanced connection to nature and the food cycle. Environmental awareness through understanding the role of local food systems. Each participant will take home a planted container with herbs or vegetables, encouraging them to nurture the plant and continue growing at home, learning how to care for it and track its growth.