(Peri)urban agriculture and green urban development: Example of Vienna

Abstract

Contemporary cities are facing challenges that require reconfiguration of their developmental trajectories in order to ensure the preconditions for the survival and functioning of urban (eco)systems. Therefore, integration of green agendas into urban planning has become an essential assumption of urban development. In compliance with their specific capacities and needs, modern cities adopt various green strategies and approaches - one of which is (peri)urban agriculture. This phenomenon is becoming increasingly visible in contemporary urban contexts, having multiple impacts on the features and functions of urban (eco)systems. Using the example of Vienna, one of the greenest cities in Europe, the paper analyzes the characteristics, functions, and preconditions for the development of (peri)urban agriculture. The aim of the paper is to identify the main factors contributing to the implementation of this practice, as well as to examine its potential and limitations in strengthening the sustainability of urban ecosystems.