2026 Reports

AGRUPAR: Participatory Urban Agriculture in Quito

Pico, Tannya; Martinez Varderi, Robert; Enseñado, Elena Marie

This case study examines AGRUPAR, a long-standing participatory urban agriculture program in Quito, Ecuador, as a multifunctional nature-based solution addressing climate change, food security, and social inequality. Led by the municipality, the initiative empowers vulnerable populations through community gardens, technical training, and support across the food supply chain, integrating ancestral knowledge with modern agroecological practices. AGRUPAR has significantly increased access to healthy food, generated income opportunities, and strengthened social inclusion, particularly for women and marginalized groups. The case highlights how scalable, low-cost urban agriculture can enhance urban resilience, reduce environmental impacts, and foster more equitable and sustainable food systems.