‘Basket Project’ is a policy initiated by Guangzhou City to meet the food supply for its 14.88 million inhabitants, by exploring the development of modern urban agriculture through a number of innovative methods.

The Digital Beehive Project aims to install a system which monitors several aspects of the beehive, bee behavior and honey production while helping predict impending extreme weather events. The prototype is built from simple, sustainable and inexpensive components and is easy to maintain.

Slow Food Rhein-Mosel wants to safeguard diversity by protecting ancient crop sorts such as “Kesselheim sugar peas”, an endangered local crop. The whole initiative, from sowing the peas to picking them to expose the seeds for the next year, was organised by volunteers of all ages. Sugar peas are easy to grow and serve as a soil conditioner. Their production improves local bio-cultural diversity and encourages reflection on food production/consumption behaviour.

Insec2Eat’s mission is to bring more insects and insect-meal products to plates. Since insects are high in protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, trace elements and antioxidants, they are a healthy and sustainable alternative to meat. Compared to conventional animal husbandry, insects need: less water, less space, no need for deforestation. Insec2Eat specializes in healthy alternative protein products without additives.

Finding himself out of work, Issam Ben Chaaben decided to grow food in an empty plot of land near his house. His urban farming has grown into a source of employment and fresh produce for his local community. Now he sells his products to local merchants and restaurants in nearby towns and has been able to provide employment to two young people. His initiative has had an environmental benefit, too, with more birds and bees coming to the land.

Located in what used to be an ignored space between building blocks in Stovner, a low-income suburban area of Oslo, a group of volunteers of all ages has created a green oasis – Mellomrommet. All tasks, building and planning are carried out by volunteers, and all the produce goes back to the community at no cost. Everyone can join at no charge and the area is open to the public 24-7.