UNECE has launched a new guide "The Edible City: Why Food Trees Matter," which explores the multifaceted benefits of incorporating food-producing trees into urban landscapes. This guide emphasizes the role of urban forests in enhancing food security, improving community well-being, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Food trees not only provide nutritious food for urban residents but can also contribute to a healthier environment, stronger communities, and a more sustainable urban future.
The guide highlights the key potential benefits of incorporating food trees into urban areas which include:
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Enhanced Food Security: Urban food trees can provide a valuable source of fresh, nutritious food for residents, improving access to healthy diets and reducing reliance on long-distance food transport.
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Improved Community Well-being: Community orchards and food forests in parks or even along urban roads and green patches can foster social interaction, strengthen community bonds, and provide opportunities for education and skill-building.
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Climate Change Mitigation: Trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. They also provide shade, reducing urban heat islands and improving air quality.
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Biodiversity Enhancement: Urban food trees support biodiversity by providing habitat for pollinators and other beneficial organisms.
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Improved Urban Aesthetics: Food trees can enhance the visual appeal of urban spaces, creating more attractive and livable neighborhoods.
The guide provides valuable insights for urban planners, policymakers, and community leaders on how to integrate food trees into urban landscapes effectively. It includes practical guidance on tree selection, planting and care, and strategies for community engagement and participation.
The publication is available for download at https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2025-02/2422244_E_PDF_WEB_0.pdf
UNECE works on forests and the bioeconomy
