A participatory action research on the factors affecting the disseminetion of urban agriculture in the İzmir

This thesis examines what urban agriculture is, and what are the benefits and the risks of urban agriculture for the urban households and for the city, and existing urban agriculture initiatives in Turkey, and also to find an effective road map to integrate the urban agriculture into the city. In this research which is participatory action research methodology is used, local governments have been encouraged to have a leadership for the creation of urban gardens especially for the disadvantaged groups. Although the research has been intensified in Izmir province, since the urban agriculture is respectively a new concept for Turkey, also some interviews and observations have been realized in Istanbul, Ankara and bursa provinces. As a result of these works a general framework has been drawn. From the point of view of many municipalities there is not suitable area in the cities for urban agriculture. But on the other hand there are some municipalities that have positive attitudes. For example, an urban garden was established with Seferihisar Municipality in Ulamış. In addition to this, efforts have been made to expand the gardens at Universities, especially in the faculty of Agriculture. An urban agriculture club was established for the students of Agriculture Faculty in Ege University. Agricultural production was carried out periodically with the students. Urban agriculture in Turkey is mostly supported and known under the leadership of non-governmental organization and individuals. The sustainability of the existing urban gardens depends on this leadership. The acceleration of dissemination, development and the effectiveness of urban gardens are possible with the support and leadership of local governments.