Category: Economic Development - Agriculture
Local Food Security & Creating a Self-Reliant Resiliant Region
I, Michael Burgess, as mayor will encourage the creation of an Institute of Urban Agriculture
To attract & train student in growing food in cities using local waste & other resources to both do this & lessen the burden on transport systems
This facility will be privately funded & designed to use our natural environment to both attract overseas students & enable them to experience real-time farming & learn how that can be transplanted into crowded cities that frequently lack access to fresh food
I will also advocate for the return to council of many jobs that have been outsourced to private contractors & consultants & the revitalisation of the council's apprenticeship intakes
The Sunshine Coast is ideally placed to attract International fee-paying students & has a depth of potential teachers to make this a viable enterprise, From this could grow a whole industry of trained personnel, products, techniques & technology capable of earning our region significant export dollars
What is UrbAg?
Establishing a teaching school for urban agriculture holds immense potential to revolutionise how cities approach food production, sustainability, and environmental consciousness. This innovative concept focuses on harnessing local green and water waste within urban settings to cultivate a more resilient and self-sustaining food system.
The foundation of the urban agriculture teaching school lies in education and community engagement. The curriculum should cover a diverse range of topics, including sustainable farming practices, resource management, and the utilization of green and water waste. Workshops, hands-on activities, and theoretical classes can empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to transform unused spaces within the city into thriving urban gardens.
The concept of using local green waste involves repurposing organic materials such as kitchen scraps, yard trimmings, and plant residues. The teaching school can educate participants on composting techniques, vermiculture, and the benefits of organic waste recycling. By teaching the community how to convert waste into nutrient-rich compost, the school contributes to reducing landfill burdens and creates a valuable resource for urban agriculture.
Water waste, often a critical concern in urban environments, can be addressed through innovative water conservation and harvesting methods. The teaching school should emphasize the importance of rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and efficient irrigation practices. Educating participants on these techniques not only helps in sustainable water management but also fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between water use and food production.
Practical application is key in the teaching school's approach. Participants can engage in hands-on activities, cultivating small-scale urban gardens within the school premises. This not only serves as a practical learning experience but also demonstrates the feasibility of urban agriculture in limited spaces. Container gardening, vertical farming, and rooftop gardens are examples of techniques that optimize available space for efficient food production.
The school can collaborate with local experts, agricultural scientists, and environmentalists to provide a well-rounded educational experience. Field trips to successful urban agriculture projects within the city can offer real-world insights and inspiration. Additionally, guest lectures and workshops by industry professionals can expose participants to cutting-edge practices and emerging technologies in urban farming.
Community involvement is crucial for the success of the urban agriculture teaching school. Outreach programs can extend the benefits of the school to a broader audience, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for sustainable food production. Collaborations with local schools, community centers, and government agencies can amplify the impact of the teaching school, creating a network of urban agriculture advocates across the city.
Furthermore, the teaching school can serve as a hub for research and development in urban agriculture. Encouraging experimentation with different crops, growing methods, and technologies can contribute to the evolution of best practices in the field. The school can also act as a showcase for sustainable urban agriculture, inspiring other communities to adopt similar initiatives.
In conclusion, a teaching school for urban agriculture, focused on using local green and water waste, has the potential to transform cities into hubs of sustainable food production. Through education, practical application, community engagement, and collaboration, this initiative can empower individuals to take an active role in reshaping urban landscapes and promoting a more resilient and environmentally friendly approach to food cultivation https://www.uhd.edu/academics/sciences/center-for-urban-agriculture-and-sustainability/index.aspx. Get the young into diggin' dirt https://youtu.be/y4dgG8_E5JU
Read More...Posted on 04 Feb 2024, 3:59 - Category: Economic Development - Agriculture
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