Urban Allotment Gardens in Europe

<p>Although urban allotment gardening dates back to the nineteenth century it has recently undergone a renaissance of interest and popularity. This is the result of greater concern over urban greenspace food security and quality of life. This book presents a comprehensive research-based overview of the various features benefits and values associated with urban allotment gardening in Europe. </p><p>The book is based on a European COST Action project which brings together researchers and practitioners from all over Europe for the first detailed exploration of the subject on a continent-wide scale. It assesses the policy planning and design aspects as well as the social and ecological benefits of urban allotment gardening. Through an examination of the wide range of different traditions and practices across Europe it brings together the most recent research to discuss the latest evolutions of urban allotment gardening and to help raise awareness and fill knowledge gaps. </p><p>The book provides a multidisciplinary perspective including insights from horticulture and soil science ecology sociology urban geography landscape planning and design. The themes are underpinned by case studies from a number of European countries which supply a wide range of examples to illustrate different key issues.</p>