Policies for the Implementation of Commercial Urban Agriculture in Some Western Cities as Hypothesis for Alternative Food Network

The chapter investigates the transformation of urban commerce and agriculture in light of global crises and the increasing demand for sustainable local food systems. It highlights the vulnerabilities in production and consumption chains, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, exposing weaknesses in capital-intensive, oligopolistic food systems. Conversely, diversified, low-intensity, and locally distributed production systems have shown resilience, maintaining continuous food supplies to urban centers. Urban agriculture is proposed as a solution to food insecurity, emphasizing urban gardens and farmers’ markets. Managed by community residents or nonprofits, urban gardens promote food security, environmental sustainability, education, and social cohesion, using organic or sustainable farming methods to transform underutilized urban spaces. The benefits include improved food security, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic opportunities. Case studies from Indianapolis (US), Grenoble (France), and Catania (Italy) demonstrate the varied implementation and impact of urban agriculture. Indianapolis features a strong network of community gardens and farmers’ markets, supported by local initiatives and public policies. Grenoble integrates urban gardens within a broader sustainability framework, with significant public participation. The chapter concludes by stressing the need for policies to support commercial urban agriculture, focusing on land access, financial and technical assistance, and the creation of alternative food networks. Emphasized is the importance of community engagement, sustainable practices, and integrating urban agriculture into public policy to enhance food security, environmental sustainability, and community resilience. Continuous monitoring and theoretical advancements are recommended to address the evolving dynamics of urban agriculture and commerce.