Urban agriculture in Florianópolis: from the gardens to the market

Abstract

Urban agriculture has a range of functions including providing fresh produce, generating jobs
and income, reducing food inequalities, recycling waste, environmental protection, landscape
production, environmental education and fostering social integration. These positive externalities,
however, are not always recognized by public authorities and urban planners. Such is
the case in Florianopolis, where there is a clear dispute between real estate interests and civil
society for the definition of land use in the city’s Master Plan. This paper presents the results of
a mapping of urban agriculture experiences in Florianópolis, seeking to understand the diversity
of experiences and their functions based on empirical data collected through focus groups,
semi-structured interviews, visits and participation in meetings. Among the initiatives identified,
we will highlight the production of organic food for the local market.