Kingston community food growing: towards net zero through inclusion

This project brings researchers from several universities, the Kingston Good Food Network, and two local community organisations involved in food growing. The goal is to study the effects of urban-community food growing on achieving net-zero targets, improving local food systems, and benefitting communities.

The project aims to support the development of a strategy for urban food growing throughout the borough, with a focus on creating circular food systems. Working closely with two community food growers, the research team will co-design and co-produce an evaluation scheme. This scheme will help us better understand the impact of urban-community food growing initiatives.

The project focuses on three main areas: first, establishing sustainable food systems and contributing to net-zero emission goals; second, strengthening local communities by promoting positive behavioural changes, inclusion, and community engagement; and finally, providing insights and support to shape a comprehensive strategy for urban food growing across the entire borough.

Project lead: Ronald Ranta, Kingston University

Project members: Kingston Good Food Network; Aulaw Organic Farm, New Malden; Robin Hutchinson, The Community Brain; Hilda Mulrooney, Kingston University; Sarah Sumpter, Kingston University; Nevena Nancheva, Roehampton University; Dee Bhakta, London Metropolitan University; Rounaq Nayak, Bournemouth University