Edible Neighborhood
Country
Netherlands
2017-Ongoing
Aimed for
All age groups
Type of partnership
Public-Private Partnership
Sectors
Community, Environmental sustainability, Mobility, Physical Activity & Sports, Public administration, Urban Planning & Design
Innovation
Methodological, Social
Aim
The Rijnvliet neighborhood in the Netherlands has been transformed into a true urban food forest. This innovative project involved the planting of over 1000 fruit trees and 220 species of edible flora. All public greenery in the neighborhood is edible for humans, animals, or insects, creating a unique urban ecosystem. This transformation not only improves ecosystem services (water management, biodiversity, air quality) but also climate adaptation and social cohesion, by encouraging residents to interact with their environment and participate in local food production.
Outcome
Outcome
Creation of a large-scale urban food forest, improved ecosystem services (better stormwater management, reduction of urban heat island effect, air purification), significant increase in biodiversity. The project has also stimulated active resident participation, with the organization of local markets, culinary events, and collective gardening sessions, creating a reproducible model for other edible urban landscapes.