Food security in the context of sustainable urbanization: The case of Sakarya province

In this study, the food security of Sakarya has been assessed, and an analysis of the agricultural activities that ensure this security has been conducted. The existing agricultural activities in the province were analyzed to determine trends based on changes over the years. The factors influencing these trends were highlighted, and in this context, the findings were evaluated in terms of food security, which is one of the key parameters of sustainable cities. Agricultural activities, which played a significant role in the establishment of Sakarya, continue to exist as an important economic activity despite economic diversities. The province has significant agricultural potential due to its proximity to consumption centers, fertile soil structure, and favorable climatic conditions. Indeed, the province ranks among the top ten in Turkey for 16 agricultural products. The influence of industrialization, inclusion in major transportation projects, the opening of Sakarya University, and similar factors have led to intense migration to the province, increasing urban sprawl. Although the expansion of urban settlements has increased pressure on agricultural lands, the sector still maintains its significance as an important economic activity. The constant increase in migration, urban sprawl, climate change effects, agricultural policies, lack of R&D, and other issues related to the sector have made food security in the province more challenging and have been observed as a threat for thefuture. Solving the problems of Sakarya, which makes significant contributions to food supply both in the region and across the country, is of great importance. Addressing the root causes of the existing issues in the province's food supply, harmonizing urban settlements with the agricultural lands that serve as production areas, and ensuring a sustainable vision are seen as viable solutions. In this context, solutions brought to the agricultural activities, which are a significant function of the province, can make important contributions to the food supply at both the provincial and national levels and serve as an example for sustainable urban development.