Growing Food Security Through Urban Gardens
In April, we hosted an engaging webinar in partnership with our strategic ally Terrakura Organic, co-founded by Miguel Montoya, one of our alumni. Miguel volunteered in 2020 with the Youth for the Green Growth (Y4GG) program and also served as a leader in the first four Greentalist generations.
During the session, participants were inspired to transform their homes into resilient, food-producing spaces and actively support Urban Food Security. Furthermore, the webinar highlighted some alarming facts: globally, over 828 million people face hunger (FAO, 2023). In Latin America, 8 out of 10 households waste food. Additionally, only 2% of urban households grow their own food.
These numbers clearly emphasize the urgency of creating sustainable food systems and reducing dependence on large-scale industrial agriculture.
Why composting matters
Composting is a simple yet powerful way to strengthen Urban Food Security. By turning organic waste into natural fertilizer, people can grow more food at home, reduce dependence on industrial agriculture, and make better use of existing resources. Moreover, it lowers household waste by 40–50%, improves soil health without chemicals, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions from waste. These benefits directly support local food production and resilient communities.
There are many types of composting systems; however, in this session, participants learned about the Takakura composting method. This Japanese, nature-based solution uses natural microorganisms capable of breaking down almost anything—even meat. Additionally, this method creates clean, odor-free compost in small spaces, making it ideal for urban living.
Furthermore, Terrakura Organic distributes innovative Takakura 360 compost bins across Costa Rica and delivers workshops on proper usage. In just a few weeks, kitchen scraps transform into rich organic fertilizer, ready to nourish herbs, vegetables, and fruits at home. Consequently, this approach not only keeps waste out of landfills but also empowers communities to grow their own food and actively contribute to a more sustainable future.
Top Gardening Tips
- Select a spot that matches your plants’ sunlight needs.
- Reuse containers such as pots, bottles, or pallets.
- Grow quick crops like lettuce, radishes, and spinach.
- Use natural pest control: garlic infusions, white soap.
- Rotate crops to keep soil healthy.
Growing Together for a Sustainable Future
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Terrakura Organic for their commitment to sustainability and for sharing expertise in innovative eco-entrepreneurship. Their efforts actively strengthen Urban Food Security and help communities take concrete steps toward self-sufficiency and environmental care.
Moreover, to everyone who joined us, your energy and curiosity truly make a difference. Each seed planted and every compost bin started brings us closer to a healthier, more resilient planet.
Additionally, stay connected for our upcoming open webinars, where we will continue exploring hands-on skills, creative solutions, and inspiring ways to build a greener future together while promoting Urban Food Security.
