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

Project summary: 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.