IMPACTS
Social Impacts
Health Impacts
Economic Impacts
Environmental Impacts
Communities begin "creating safe places" and improving the aesthetic of neighborhoods as a result of community gardens and farmer markets. It makes use of urban areas in new ways and through grants offers residents a sense of "ownership". This type of farming encourages social interaction and cooperation of a group of people when it comes to the legal processes of dealing with zoning or land access barriers (Golden).
Food access in urban areas, especially food deserts, becomes increasingly important among low-income, minority groups. Healthy food options such as fruits and vegetables become a more affordable option because of urban agriculture. Not only does it offer attainable food sources, but it also emphasizes higher nutritional values and a sense of locally sourcing (Golden).
The different types of urban agriculture offer unique job training and employment opportunities for local residents. Another common theme is entrepreneurial ventures which allow for a positive impact on an individual's well-being as well as the community's (Golden).
Because urban agriculture allows more localized food access, carbon emissions are lessened. "Food related emissions in the U.S. account for 21 percent of total emissions, or 6.1 tons of CO2 per year" (James). By choosing to outsource less and avoid places like restaurants or grocery stores, it helps the environment by decreasing an urban area's carbon footprint (James). Other environmental impacts include "recycling waste, managing storm water, remediating toxic land, and reducing heat island effects" (Golden).