Nội dung lý thuyết
Urban Farming
Mario Wezel is a German photographer who takes photos for National Geographic. Mario is interested in urban farming, so many of his photos show farmers and gardeners. However, urban farming is different from traditional farming. It's when people farm and garden in the middle of the city.
Mario traveled to urban farms all over the US. In Boston, one man has bees on the roof of the Lenox Hotel. The hotel uses honey from the bees in its restaurant. In San Francisco, there's a small farm next to the Giants' baseball stadium. When people watch the game, they can also buy sandwiches from the farm with fresh vegetables! And in Washington, D.C., volunteers can help in a garden at the White House.
For Mario, the most surprising urban farm is at San Quentin State Prison, in California. The prison has a garden and, once a week, prisoners can take a gardening class. They learn how to grow plants and flowers. Working in the garden is also therapeutic.
Mario's photos are all of the US, but you can find urban farms in a lot of different countries and large cities, such as Tokyo, Lima, and Perth. That's because about 3.5 billion people (half the world's population) live in cities today and they want fresh, healthy food. And more and more people think urban farming is the answer to the world's food shortages, as well as to making our cities greener and more relaxing.
Ex1: Answer the questions.
1. Mario Wezel is.
2. Many of his photos show farmers and gardeners.
3. You can eat fresh vegetables and watch baseball at the Giants' baseball stadium in San Francisco.
4. Prisoners can.
5. About 3.5 billion people.
Ex2: Match the words.
1-f
2-a
3-c
4-b
5-g
6-e
7-d
Goal check
Urban Farm/Garden Project Plan
1. Why Our City Needs an Urban Farm or Garden
Environmental Benefits: Urban farms can help reduce the urban heat island effect by providing green spaces that cool the surrounding areas. Plants can also improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Local Food Production: By growing fresh produce locally, we reduce the need for long-distance transportation of food, cutting down on carbon emissions. This helps promote sustainability and food security, especially in cities where access to fresh, affordable produce can be limited.
Community Engagement: Urban farms foster a sense of community by bringing people together to work towards a common goal. This can encourage social interaction, education about healthy eating, and awareness of environmental issues.
Waste Reduction: Urban gardens can make use of food scraps and compost, reducing waste sent to landfills. They can also help with stormwater management by absorbing rainwater and preventing flooding.
Wellness and Mental Health: Green spaces are shown to improve mental health, providing areas for relaxation, physical activity, and connection with nature, especially in densely populated cities.
2. Location of the Urban Farm/Garden
Urban Park or Public Space: A centrally located park or open public space could be ideal. It would be accessible to a broad demographic, from children to elderly residents, and could also serve as a hub for community events and education.
Vacant Lots or Rooftops: If available, transforming vacant lots or underused rooftops into urban gardens can revitalize neglected areas of the city. Rooftop gardens are particularly useful in cities with limited ground space.
Near Community Centers or Schools: Urban farms located near schools or community centers can serve as educational tools, teaching children and adults about sustainable food practices, gardening, and healthy eating habits.
Public Transportation Access: Choosing a location near a metro or bus station would increase the accessibility of the farm for urban dwellers who rely on public transport, ensuring it’s easily reachable for everyone in the community.
3. Types of Plants We Will Grow
Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and swiss chard are fast-growing and nutritious plants that thrive in urban environments. They are also highly popular for local consumption.
Herbs: Basil, mint, parsley, cilantro, thyme, and rosemary are not only easy to grow but also add flavor to meals. They can be grown in smaller spaces or containers, making them suitable for urban gardens.
Tomatoes: Cherry or small tomato varieties are perfect for urban farms as they don't require much space and grow well in containers or vertical gardens.
Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, and beets are excellent choices because they can grow in deep containers or raised beds. They also provide healthy, locally grown produce to the community.
Fruit Plants: Strawberries, blueberries, and dwarf fruit trees (such as apples or citrus) can be grown in urban environments, offering both beauty and nourishment.
Pollinator-friendly Plants: Flowers like sunflowers, marigolds, and lavender would attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which are essential for plant growth and biodiversity.
Beans and Peas: These legumes can enrich the soil with nitrogen, helping to naturally fertilize the garden, and they’re also a great source of protein.
Next Steps:
Community Involvement: Organize meetings with local residents to get input on what they would like to see in the garden and how they can participate.
Fundraising: Seek funding through local grants, crowdfunding campaigns, or partnerships with local businesses and organizations.
Partnerships: Collaborate with schools, environmental organizations, and local farmers’ markets to strengthen the project’s impact and reach.