IHC2026

Organizers: Francesco Orsini¹, Guido Santini², Giuseppina Pennisi¹, Makiko Taguchi² (¹University of Bologna and ²FAO)

Workshop Overview
This workshop explores the future of urban agriculture through an integrated approach, focusing on urban food production, urban greening, and the role of urban planning in fostering sustainable cities. In the framework of the ongoing collaboration between ISHS and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and within the International Horticultural Congress 2026, this workshop brings together experts, researchers, and thought leaders under the umbrella of two symposia—UrbanFood2026 and GreenCities2026—to examine how urban spaces can be transformed to address pressing global challenges, including food security, climate change, and the need for greener urban environments.
The Goals and Objectives of the workshop are:

• Elaborate on the principles of integrated urban agriculture and how it intersects with urban planning, food systems, and environmental sustainability.
• Explore best practices in urban food production, such as rooftop farming, vertical gardens, and community agriculture.
• Examine urban greening techniques that enhance biodiversity, reduce heat islands, and contribute to the overall well-being of urban populations.
• Collaborate and innovate on urban agriculture models that promote resilience, inclusivity, and environmental health.
• Share experiences of policy frameworks and city strategies that integrate food production and greening into urban planning.

Target Audience

• Urban planners and designers
• Horticulturists and agricultural experts
• Policy makers and local government representatives
• Environmentalists and sustainability advocates
• Researchers and students in the fields of urban studies, agriculture, and environmental science
• Social entrepreneurs and community organizers

A position paper bringing together the workshop outcomes will be proposed for publication in Acta Horticulturae.