Prospects for Urban Agriculture in Greater Amman
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2026.10484Keywords:
Urban agriculture, food security, urban food systems, sustainable cities and communities.Abstract
Objectives: This research aims to assess the potential of urban agriculture within the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) to achieve self-sufficiency in vegetable production by analyzing various neighbourhoods.
Methods: Census data, ortho-imagery, and spatial analysis using Geographic Information System (GIS) methods were employed to evaluate space allocation for vegetable production across the selected neighbourhoods. A mixed-methods approach was used with both quantitative and qualitative data. GIS analysis incorporated official documents such as urban land use plans, environmental and statistical reports to determine suitable locations for urban agriculture. Additionally, expert interviews, structured questionnaires targeting GAM residents, field observations, and photographic documentation were conducted to assess land use, site characteristics, and public perceptions. The analysis included scenarios using vacant spaces, private gardens, and rooftops with various gardening methods: open, protected, soil-based gardening, and hydroponics.
Results: The research revealed that neighbourhoods such as Jabal Al-Weibdeh could not meet vegetable production demand due to land use composition, despite lower operational costs. However, rooftop hydroponics could fulfill this demand, though it requires significant investment. In contrast, outer neighbourhoods like Al-Yadoodeh can efficiently meet vegetable needs without the use of hydroponics.
Conclusions: Urban agriculture holds the potential to significantly contribute to local agricultural production, particularly with supportive planning policies, agricultural training, and skill development. Neighbourhoods outside the urban core present a greater capacity for self-sufficiency, while those in the core could benefit from innovative methods like hydroponics to meet demand.
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