Strategies for transforming nature-society relations in Turkey: The case of urban agriculture

This study examines the viability of urban farming as a means to transform the relationship between nature and society. The research aims to enhance urban agriculture's potential in addressing environmental challenges and fostering the relationship between nature and society, while also identifying and proposing solutions to existing issues in this domain. The dissertation highlights the environmental, economic, and social advantages of urban farming and investigates how these practices can contribute to sustainable urban development. A qualitative methodology was employed for this study. Representatives from civil society organizations involved in urban agriculture were interviewed in- depth. The study included 20 participants, whose interviews were designed to gain insights into their experiences, perspectives, and obstacles encountered in urban farming initiatives. These participants enriched the study's comprehensive analysis by sharing their expertise and experiences across various aspects of urban agriculture. Urban agriculture's sustainability faces numerous critical obstacles, as revealed by the study's results. Participants identified inadequate legislative codes and regulations, ineffective communication with local officials, financial hardships, and a lack of public awareness as major impediments to urban farming's progress. The deficiencies in current legal frameworks are particularly problematic, creating uncertainty regarding farmland preservation and its potential loss during urban redevelopment. This ambiguity dampens local producers' enthusiasm and creates barriers to the successful implementation of urban agriculture projects. The combination of these factors poses significant challenges to the expansion and long-term viability of urban farming initiatives. The dissertation underscores the significance of collaborative efforts among municipal authorities, community organizations, and citizens in promoting urban farming initiatives. It also highlights urban agriculture's capacity to enhance community bonds and contribute to ecological sustainability. The study concludes that comprehensive policies and strategies are essential for expanding urban agricultural practices. In this light, it recommends taking necessary actions to fully harness the potential of urban farming.